The Ultimate Vacation Rental Maintenance Checklist

PinkTree Capital
Jun 18
3 min read

A premium vacation rental doesn’t stay premium on its own.

Behind every glowing review and repeat guest is a property that’s clean, functional, and well cared for — season after season. But maintaining that standard takes more than the occasional deep clean. It requires a proactive system for vacation rental maintenance, tailored to the realities of your location, climate, and guest volume.

At Calisto, our local teams follow a rigorous checklist to keep every property in top condition. Whether you’re managing your home alone or working with a professional team, here’s a vacation home upkeep checklist to help protect your investment and elevate the guest experience.

Routine Maintenance Tasks (Weekly or Per Stay)

These tasks should be completed between every booking to ensure your property is ready for the next guest:

Clean and sanitize all rooms (including under beds and inside cabinets)
Inspect and test all appliances and electronics
Check plumbing for leaks or clogs
Refill consumables (toilet paper, soap, dish detergent, etc.)
Restock kitchen essentials (coffee, salt, oil, paper towels)
Test lights, remotes, and Wi-Fi
Replace burned-out bulbs and batteries
Sweep and inspect outdoor areas (patios, balconies, pool decks)
Remove trash and recycling
Water plants and check landscaping

Monthly Maintenance Tasks

Even if your property has constant turnover, some maintenance needs build slowly over time. These tasks help prevent issues before they impact the guest experience:

Deep clean windows, walls, and baseboards
Inspect HVAC filters and replace if needed
Check fire extinguishers and smoke detectors
Flush unused drains and run faucets
Inspect exterior paint, roof tiles, and gutters
Test door locks and keypads
Treat drains to prevent odors or buildup

Seasonal Maintenance Tasks

Each season brings its own challenges — especially in tropical climates. Plan these tasks at the start of every new quarter:

Schedule professional HVAC servicing (especially before high season)
Power wash exterior surfaces
Treat for pests (ants, termites, mosquitoes)
Deep clean upholstery, rugs, and curtains
Inspect and reseal outdoor furniture or wood surfaces
Service pool equipment and update water treatment
Update inventory of linens, towels, and kitchenware

Special Considerations: Hurricane Season in the Caribbean

If your property is located in the Dominican Republic or another Caribbean destination, summer and early fall mean hurricane preparedness is essential.

Here’s what we include in every Calisto hurricane readiness plan:

Clear gutters, drains, and downspouts
Secure or store outdoor furniture
Verify insurance coverage is up to date
Stock emergency kits (flashlights, batteries, bottled water)
Back up digital files and guest contact information
Inspect generator or backup power supply
Communicate clear instructions to on-site staff and guests

Being proactive can prevent damage, reduce risk, and protect your reputation — especially when managing remotely.

Long-Term Property Care

Beyond the everyday tasks, we recommend a few yearly routines to extend the life of your property and ensure continued guest satisfaction:

Schedule a full inspection of the home
Service air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems
Repaint or refresh high-traffic areas
Replace any damaged or outdated furnishings
Review and renegotiate service contracts with vendors
Audit and optimize your pricing and marketing strategy

Maintaining a Premium Property Isn’t Passive

Consistent maintenance isn’t just about preventing problems — it’s what makes a property stand out. Guests notice the little things. And over time, they leave a big impact on your reviews, bookings, and revenue.

At Calisto, we handle all of this for you. From pool service and pest control to deep cleans and hurricane prep, our local maintenance and cleaning teams keep every property in top shape — with zero hassle for the owner.