Winterizing Your Vacation Home: A 10-Step Checklist

As winter approaches, tourist destinations, particularly in coastal, mountainous, and island regions, tend to see a decline in visitors. If you own an Airbnb property in such areas, consider closing your property for the off-season. Neglecting proper winterization could result in costly damages or increased utility bills. Here's comprehensive guidelines on preparing your property for the winter months.

Conduct a Thorough Inspection

Regular inspections are essential for the long-term upkeep of your vacation property. A few weeks before winter, assess your property internally and externally for any needed repairs, especially for foundation, siding, or trim cracks.

Insider Tip: Stay proactive about minor repairs to avoid larger problems during your stays.

Optimize Heating and Insulation

Prevent freezing pipes by keeping your home's interior between 50° and 55°F. This range also inhibits mold and mildew.

Insulate exposed pipes and hose bibs.

Check the insulation in basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
Seal air leaks, especially around pipes, vents, and electrical wiring.

Safely Disconnect Gas Supply

Contact your gas service provider to turn off the natural gas or propane supply to minimize accidental gas leakage or ignition risks.

Unplug Electronics and Appliances

Disconnect all electronics and appliances to safeguard them from power surges. If you're closing the property for the entire winter, clean out your refrigerator and leave its doors ajar.

Turn Off and Drain Water System

Deactivate the main water supply and drain water from all fixtures, including outdoor hoses and appliances.

Expert Note: Consider professional plumbing services for more specialized water system layouts.

Examine the Roof

Check for lifted shingles or other potential issues that could lead to leaks. Seal the flue and chimney to prevent animal intrusion and heat loss.

Clean and Secure Gutters

Clear gutters to facilitate smooth drainage of melting snow or ice.

Empty Pantry and Kitchen Cabinets

Clear out food items that may attract pests. If you prefer, non-perishables can be stored in airtight containers.

Protect Outdoor Furniture and Amenities

Secure or store outdoor furniture and amenities to prevent them from becoming hazards during storms.

Arrange Periodic Checks

Even the best preparations may fall short. Arrange for a neighbor or property management service to periodically check your property, especially after severe weather events.

Added Benefit: At Stay Classy Management, we monitor all our properties closely, especially during extreme weather, to ensure they remain in top condition.

Additional Option: Keep Your Property Open

If your property has efficient heating systems and is in an area that still attracts winter tourists, consider keeping it open.

Emerging travel trends show increased interest in off-season stays, offering a quick return on investment.

With a professional Airbnb property management company like Stay Classy Management, you can ensure your property is well-maintained year-round, optimizing your investment and peace of mind.

Want to know how much you could make? Click here for a free estimate, or contact us for more information!