How to Handle STR Maintenance for Long-Term Success
Maintaining your short-term rental (STR) property is critical for long-term success. A well-maintained property attracts more bookings, ensures guest satisfaction, and prevents costly repairs in the future. Effective STR maintenance requires a proactive approach, reliable systems, and the right service providers. This guide explores the best practices for managing maintenance tasks, responding to issues, and keeping your property in top condition.
Why STR Maintenance is Essential
1. Ensures Guest Satisfaction
A clean, well-maintained property creates positive first impressions and enhances the guest experience.
2. Protects Your Investment
Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of appliances, furniture, and property features.
3. Reduces Emergency Repairs
Preventative maintenance minimizes the likelihood of costly, last-minute fixes.
4. Boosts Ratings and Bookings
Guests are more likely to leave positive reviews for properties in excellent condition.
Key Areas of STR Maintenance
1. Cleaning and Turnovers
Consistent cleaning is the foundation of property maintenance.
What to Include in Cleaning Checklists:
Kitchens: Clean appliances, sanitize surfaces, and restock essentials.
Bathrooms: Disinfect all surfaces, replace toiletries, and ensure proper ventilation.
Bedrooms: Change linens, vacuum carpets, and dust furniture.
Common Areas: Sweep floors, clean windows, and arrange furniture.
Pro Tip:
Use platforms like Turno (formerly TurnoverBnB) to automate cleaning schedules and communicate with cleaners.
2. Appliance and Equipment Maintenance
Regularly inspect and maintain appliances to ensure functionality.
Common Maintenance Tasks:
Check HVAC systems and replace filters every 3-6 months.
Test kitchen appliances like ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers.
Inspect washers, dryers, and water heaters for leaks or wear.
Pro Tip:
Schedule professional servicing for major appliances annually.
3. Plumbing and Electrical Systems
Keep essential systems in good working order to avoid guest disruptions.
Plumbing Tips:
Inspect pipes and faucets for leaks or corrosion.
Ensure proper water pressure and temperature settings.
Electrical Tips:
Test light fixtures, outlets, and switches regularly.
Replace burned-out bulbs and faulty wiring immediately.
Pro Tip:
Create a list of trusted plumbers and electricians for quick access in emergencies.
4. Outdoor Spaces
Ensure outdoor areas are clean, safe, and inviting.
Tasks to Include:
Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and remove debris.
Inspect decks, patios, and outdoor furniture for wear.
Clean grills, fire pits, and other outdoor amenities.
Pro Tip:
Hire landscaping services for larger properties to maintain curb appeal.
5. Safety Features
Guest safety should always be a top priority.
Essential Safety Checks:
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
Replace fire extinguishers as needed and ensure they are accessible.
Inspect locks, windows, and doors for proper functionality.
Pro Tip:
Provide clear instructions for using safety equipment in your guest welcome guide.
Preventative Maintenance Strategies
1. Schedule Regular Inspections
Conduct routine checks to identify potential issues early.
Inspection Frequency:
Monthly: Basic inspections of appliances, plumbing, and electrical systems.
Quarterly: Deep inspections of HVAC, roofing, and exterior areas.
Annually: Professional servicing of major systems and appliances.
Pro Tip:
Keep a maintenance log to track completed tasks and upcoming schedules.
2. Stock Spare Supplies
Having spare items on hand reduces downtime during emergencies.
Essential Supplies to Stock:
Light bulbs, batteries, and air filters.
Basic tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches.
Extra linens, towels, and toiletries.
Pro Tip:
Store supplies in a locked closet or cabinet accessible to staff.
3. Partner with Reliable Vendors
Build a network of trusted service providers for efficient problem resolution.
Vendors to Include:
Plumbers and electricians.
HVAC technicians and appliance repair specialists.
Cleaning and landscaping services.
Pro Tip:
Negotiate service contracts for regular maintenance tasks to save money.
Managing Guest-Reported Issues
1. Respond Promptly
Address guest concerns quickly to maintain trust and satisfaction.
How to Respond:
Acknowledge the issue within 1-2 hours.
Provide a timeline for resolution.
Offer temporary solutions if possible (e.g., portable heaters for HVAC issues).
Pro Tip:
Use property management software like Hostfully to track and manage maintenance requests.
2. Communicate Clearly
Keep guests informed about progress and resolutions.
Example Message:
“Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We’ve contacted a technician, and the issue should be resolved by [time/date]. Please let us know if there’s anything else we can do to make your stay more comfortable.”
Pro Tip:
Follow up after resolving the issue to ensure guest satisfaction.
3. Offer Compensation When Necessary
If the issue significantly impacts the guest’s experience, consider offering compensation.
Examples of Compensation:
Partial refunds or discounts on future stays.
Complimentary services or amenities, such as a bottle of wine or extended check-out.
Pro Tip:
Balance compensation with the severity of the issue to avoid unnecessary revenue loss.
Technology and Tools for STR Maintenance
1. Property Management Software (PMS)
Streamline maintenance scheduling and communication with a reliable PMS.
Recommended Tools:
Guesty: Centralizes maintenance requests and task management.
Lodgify: Tracks maintenance schedules and integrates with booking platforms.
2. Maintenance Apps
Use apps to coordinate tasks and track progress.
Recommended Apps:
Properly: Visual checklists and task assignments for cleaning and maintenance.
UpKeep: Tracks maintenance schedules, requests, and costs.
3. Smart Home Technology
Automate maintenance monitoring with smart devices.
Examples:
Smart thermostats for HVAC efficiency.
Leak detectors for early plumbing issue alerts.
Security cameras for property monitoring.
Pro Tip:
Highlight smart features in your listing to attract tech-savvy guests.
Case Studies: Successful STR Maintenance
1. Urban Apartment in New York City
Challenge: Frequent guest complaints about inconsistent water pressure.
Solution: Partnered with a local plumber for routine inspections and quick repairs.
Result: Reduced complaints by 80% and improved guest ratings.
2. Lakefront Cabin in Michigan
Challenge: High maintenance demands for outdoor spaces.
Solution: Hired a landscaping service and scheduled quarterly deep cleans for decks and patios.
Result: Boosted curb appeal and received consistent 5-star reviews for outdoor amenities.
Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid
Delaying Repairs
Ignoring small issues can lead to costly, disruptive emergencies.
Neglecting Inspections
Skipping regular inspections increases the risk of unnoticed problems.
Overlooking Guest Feedback
Failing to address maintenance-related complaints harms your reputation.
Conclusion
Effective STR maintenance is crucial for delivering exceptional guest experiences, protecting your investment, and ensuring long-term success. By implementing preventative strategies, responding quickly to issues, and using the right tools, you can keep your property in top condition and attract loyal, satisfied guests. With a proactive approach, maintenance becomes a manageable and rewarding part of your STR business.
