This is also a good time to double check the status of your TPT License, City Short Term Rental License and your Homeowners Insurance policy premiums.

1. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)

Check Operation

  • Verify thermostat accuracy and function
  • Test heating and cooling modes
  • Check airflow from all vents
  • Inspect visible ductwork for leaks

Maintenance Tasks

  • Replace air filters (every 1–3 months)
  • Clean intake and return vents
  • Inspect outdoor condenser for debris
  • Clean evaporator and condenser coils (annually)
  • Schedule a seasonal HVAC check-up (twice per year)

2. Plumbing

Check Operation

  • Run all faucets (hot/cold) for flow issues
  • Verify toilet flushing and refill mechanisms
  • Verify toilet seat bolts attached
  • Verify toilet in-floor bolts not loose
  • Check shower pressure and temperature balance
  • Inspect drains for slow flow, snake as required (required quarterly)
  • Test garbage disposal

Maintenance Tasks

  • Inspect for leaks under sinks and around toilets
  • Clear aerators of sediment

3. Electrical

Check Operation

  • Test all light switches
  • Test outlets (use a plug-in tester if available)
  • Confirm GFCI outlets trip/reset properly
  • Test smoke and CO detectors
  • Test doorbell and exterior lighting

Maintenance Tasks

  • Replace smoke/CO detector batteries (annually)

4. Appliances

Kitchen

Check Operation

  • Stove burners and oven temperature
  • Run dishwasher cycle
  • Microwave heating and turntable
  • Garbage disposal grinding

Maintenance Tasks

  • Clean dishwasher filter (if applicable)
  • Clean range hood
  • Clean oven interior

Laundry

Check Operation

  • Washer fill, drain, and spin cycles
  • Dryer heating

Maintenance Tasks

  • Clean dryer vent (every 6–12 months)

5. Structural / Interior

Check Operation

  • Open/close all windows and doors
  • Test locks and latches
  • Test battery operated locks and replace batteries
  • Inspect for wall/ceiling leaks or stains
  • Check flooring for lifting, cracks, tears

Interior Design Maintenance Tasks

  • Tighten loose cabinet hinges/handles
  • Caulk tubs, showers, and sinks as needed
  • Touch up or repaint high-wear areas
  • Check chairs and barstools and tighten bolts as needed
  • Have high-use furniture like sofas, chairs and ottomans professionally cleaned

6. Exterior

Check Operation

  • Check exterior lighting
  • Test irrigation system zones
  • Verify front gate/garage door operation
  • Verify photo-cell lights operational
  • Walk exterior of property both during the day and after sunset
  • Pool and spa heater temperature readings
  • Check pool equipment during operation for leaks

Maintenance Tasks

  • Clear gutters if applicable
  • Inspect roof
  • Check siding for cracks or rot
  • Pressure wash walkways/driveway
  • Trim vegetation away from the building
  • Consider having pool and spa heaters seasonally checked by your pool heat vendor

7. Safety & Compliance

Check Operation

  • Smoke detectors
  • Carbon monoxide detectors
  • Fire extinguishers (pressure gauge)
  • Window egress routes
  • Railings and steps stability

Maintenance Tasks

  • Replace expired fire extinguishers
  • Ensure house numbers are visible
  • Check that exits open easily

🔄 Common Items That Often Need Replacing (Annually or Periodically)

Kitchen & Household Items

  • Pots and pans (often 1–2 years in rentals)
  • Cutting boards
  • Baking sheets
  • Cooking utensils (spatulas, ladles, etc.)
  • Can opener
  • Dish drying rack
  • Tupperware/food storage
  • Coffee maker/kettle
  • Toaster or toaster oven
  • Dish towels & oven mitts

Linens & Soft Goods

  • Bath towels
  • Hand towels
  • Bedsheets
  • Pillows (flatten after 1–2 years)
  • Mattress protectors
  • Shower curtain + liner

Furniture & Decor

  • Throw pillows
  • Lamps or lamp shades
  • Small side tables (prone to damage)
  • Rugs/mats (high wear)

Consumable or Wear-Out Home Items

  • Air filters
  • Water filters (fridge, under-sink, etc.)
  • Light bulbs
  • Batteries (remotes, smoke detectors)
  • Shower heads (due to mineral buildup)
  • Toilet seats (surprisingly common)

Outdoor Items

  • Garden hose
  • Welcome mat
  • Grill grates or propane tank
  • Patio cushions