The Importance of a Preventative Maintenance Plan in Short-Term Rentals
🡐 Back to Resources | August, 2025 | Written by Kurt Russell
In short-term rentals, guest experience drives everything: occupancy, reviews, and long-term revenue. But even the most beautifully staged property can suffer if maintenance issues disrupt a stay. A leaky faucet, faulty HVAC, or broken appliance can quickly lead to negative reviews — and once your reputation takes a hit, it’s hard to recover.
That’s why a preventative maintenance plan is one of the smartest investments a host or property manager can make. Instead of waiting for costly surprises, you can schedule regular checkups that protect your property, minimize emergencies, and keep guests happy.
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters
Unlike long-term tenants, short-term rental guests expect everything to work perfectly from the moment they arrive. Preventative maintenance ensures:
Fewer emergencies – Catch small issues before they become costly repairs
Better guest reviews – Guests appreciate well-maintained, reliable spaces
Lower long-term costs – Regular upkeep extends the life of appliances and systems
Peace of mind – Hosts can focus on growth, not firefighting problems
For more on keeping guests happy, see our Airbnb essentials guide.
Key Areas to Include in a Preventative Maintenance Plan
1) HVAC Systems
Heating and cooling are non-negotiable for guest comfort. Schedule seasonal tune-ups, replace filters every 1–3 months, and test thermostats before peak seasons.
Learn more about balancing comfort in our guide to smooth check-in and check-out systems.
2) Plumbing and Water Fixtures
Even minor leaks can cause major issues if ignored. Regularly inspect faucets, toilets, and water heaters. Test drains and look for signs of water damage.
Worried about long-term costs? Explore our guide to reducing expenses and boosting STR profits.
3) Appliances and Electronics
From coffee makers to washing machines, appliances see heavy turnover in STRs. Test them regularly, replace worn parts, and provide backups for essentials like kettles or toasters.
Want to wow guests beyond basics? Check our Airbnb interior design ideas.
4) Safety and Security Equipment
Working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers are not optional — they’re legal and safety essentials. Test them monthly, replace batteries regularly, and keep first-aid kits stocked.
For broader protection, see our guide on navigating insurance for STRs.
5) Exterior and Landscaping
Curb appeal matters, but so does function. Regularly inspect roofing, gutters, lighting, and locks. Outdoor furniture should be sturdy, clean, and weather-resistant.
The Cost of Skipping Preventative Maintenance
Some hosts try to save money by delaying upkeep. But deferred maintenance often leads to:
Higher repair bills when issues escalate
Poor guest reviews and lost bookings
Lower long-term property value
In short-term rentals, neglect is expensive. Investing in prevention almost always pays off.
The Clear Stay Advantage
At Clear Stay Properties, we build custom preventative maintenance plans for every property we manage. Our team coordinates with trusted vendors to:
Conduct regular inspections and system checks
Schedule seasonal service for HVAC, plumbing, and appliances
Track maintenance history and forecast upcoming needs
Ensure safety and compliance requirements are met
This proactive approach keeps your property guest-ready, prevents costly emergencies, and protects your revenue. Instead of worrying about what might go wrong, you gain a property management partner who ensures everything runs smoothly.
Interested in turning your home property into a five star short-term rental?
A preventative maintenance plan isn’t just about fixing things — it’s about protecting your reputation, improving guest satisfaction, and securing long-term profitability. By addressing issues before they escalate, you create a safer, more reliable, and more welcoming space for every guest.
You’ve seen what’s possible. Now let’s make it real. Fill out the form below to claim your free consultation with Clear Stay Properties — and discover how we help hosts boost bookings, cut stress, and maximize profit.
