Essential Vacation Rental Maintenance Checklist for Your Central Oregon Vacation Rental

Essential Maintenance Inspection Checklist for Your Central Oregon Vacation Rental

Owning a vacation rental in Central Oregon is an exciting opportunity, but regular maintenance inspections are crucial to protect your investment, ensure guest satisfaction, and keep those five-star reviews rolling in. Whether you manage your property yourself or work with a professional vacation rental manager like Central Oregon Vacation Homes, here's a comprehensive vacation rental maintenance checklist every rental should undergo — at least once a year (preferably twice)!

1. Exterior Inspection

• Roof Check: Look for missing shingles, leaks, and signs of wear — especially after heavy snow or wind.
• Gutters & Drainage: Clear out debris and ensure proper water flow away from the foundation.
• Siding & Paint: Inspect for cracks, peeling, or water damage that could worsen with seasonal changes.
• Decks & Patios: Tighten loose boards and railings. Power wash and reseal as needed.
• Yard & Landscaping: Trim trees and bushes away from the home.
• Sprinkler System Review: Test the irrigation system, replacing broken sprinkler heads and repairing damaged lines to keep landscaping healthy and attractive.

2. HVAC System and Filters

• Service Heating and Cooling Units: Especially important for homes with A/C, given Central Oregon's hot summers.
• Replace Filters: Quarterly filter replacement helps air quality and system longevity.
• Test Thermostats: Make sure programmable thermostats are working to help guests adjust temperatures easily.
• Duct Cleaning: Schedule professional duct cleaning to improve air quality and efficiency.

3. Plumbing System

• Check for Leaks: Inspect under sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances.
• Flush Water Heater: Extend its life and ensure efficient operation by flushing sediment buildup.
• Hot Water Heater Inspection: Ensure the water heater is functioning properly, not leaking, and maintaining efficiency for guest comfort.
• Winterize Pipes: If your property sits empty in winter, winterization is critical to prevent frozen pipes.

4. Electrical Systems

• Test Outlets and GFCI Plugs: Ensure all are functional and safe.
• Inspect Light Fixtures: Replace any burnt-out bulbs, and upgrade to LED for energy efficiency.
• Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace batteries and test alarms every six months.

5. Appliances and Small Equipment

• Test All Appliances: Check refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, and washers/dryers for proper operation.
• Service Hot Tubs: Deep clean, inspect heaters, and replace filters to ensure sparkling spa experiences for guests.
• Dryer Vent Cleaning: Clean out dryer vents to prevent fire hazards and improve drying efficiency.
• Evaluate Kitchen Equipment: Ensure all small appliances like coffee makers and toasters are clean and operational.

6. Interior Surfaces and Furniture

• Touch Up Paint: Address any scuffs, chips, or dirty walls.
• Inspect Furniture for Wear: Repair or replace worn seating, beds, and tables.
• Deep Clean Carpets and Rugs: Remove stains and allergens at least annually.

7. Safety Features

• First Aid Kit: Restock and ensure accessibility.
• Fire Extinguishers: Check pressure and accessibility.
• Security Systems: Test locks, alarms, and camera systems (if applicable).
• Chimney Inspection and Cleaning: If your property has a wood-burning fireplace, make sure the chimney is professionally cleaned and inspected annually to prevent fire hazards.

8. Seasonal and Outdoor Gear

• Check Adventure Gear: Bikes, kayaks, lawn games, and snow gear should be inspected for safety and usability.
• BBQ Grills and Firepits: Clean thoroughly and inspect gas lines and fire safety measures.

9. Guest Comfort Checks

• Linens and Towels: Inspect for stains, rips, or fading — replace as needed.
• WiFi and Smart Devices: Test for connectivity issues and update passwords if needed.
• Guidebooks and Welcome Materials: Ensure everything is up-to-date and polished.

Why Regular Vacation Rental Maintenance Inspections Matter

✔️ Prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs
✔️ Keep your home competitive in a busy rental market
✔️ Ensure your guests have a comfortable, safe, and memorable stay
✔️ Protect your reputation (and those 5-star reviews!)

Use this essential vacation rental maintenance checklist to take advantage or all of these benefits and ultimately improve your rental income.

At Central Oregon Vacation Homes, we believe proactive vacation rental maintenance is the foundation of a successful vacation rental business. Need help managing it all? Our team is ready to take the stress out of property maintenance — so you can relax and enjoy the rewards of your investment.

Contact us to learn more about our full-service vacation rental management!