🛠️ Essential Maintenance Inspection 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 property manager like Central Oregon Vacation Homes, here's a comprehensive guide to essential maintenance checks 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 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!)

At Central Oregon Vacation Homes, we believe proactive 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!]