How to Keep Your Holiday Cottage Guest-Ready All Year Round
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that holiday home insurance is a catch-all safety net, covering anything that goes wrong in their property. But here’s the truth: insurance isn’t a maintenance contract. It won’t pay for wear and tear or things breaking down from neglect. It’s designed to step in when unexpected events cause damage—like storms, fires, or break-ins—not when you’ve ignored that leaky gutter or cracked roof tile.
If your insurer decides your home hasn’t been properly maintained, your claim could be denied. Imagine making a claim for water damage only to learn it was caused by a blocked gutter or an unrepaired roof slate—your insurance won’t cover that.
That’s why staying on top of maintenance is essential—not just to protect your investment, but to ensure guests enjoy a safe, smooth, and memorable stay. Regular checks and preventative upkeep reduce costly repairs and keep small issues from becoming disasters.
To help, we’ve created a comprehensive holiday home maintenance checklist. Use it alongside your risk assessment to keep your property in pristine condition.
Spring Maintenance for Holiday Cottages
Spring is the perfect time to assess any damage from winter and prep your property for the busy letting season.
Kitchen
- Re-seal around worktops
- Clean tiles and re-grout if necessary
- Sanitise the fridge and defrost the freezer
- Descale the kettle
- Check for leaks under the sink and from appliances
- Deep clean the oven
Bathroom
- Remove and replace mouldy silicone
- Clean and re-grout tiles
- Clear drains
- Replace tired towels with fresh, fluffy ones
- Check for leaks in sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs
Bedroom
- Refresh bed linens and pillows
- Clean mattresses and rotate or flip them to maintain shape and comfort
Soft Furnishings
- Steam clean or wash curtains, carpets, rugs, upholstery, and other fabrics
Pro Tip: Stain Removal
Frequent guests mean occasional accidents. Keep a go-to stain removal guide on hand to tackle any stubborn marks quickly.
Loft Inspection
- Check roof felt for tears or leaks
- Look for signs of moisture or pests
- Watch for droppings, nests, or chewed materials
Boiler and Heating
- Book an annual boiler service to ensure it’s safe and efficient
- Prevent winter issues like frozen pipes or heating failures
Gas Safety
- Have all gas appliances checked yearly by a registered Gas Safe engineer
Electrical Appliances
- Regularly inspect electrical items for damage or wear
- Consider a yearly PAT (Portable Appliance Test) by a qualified electrician
Fire Safety
- Conduct a fire risk assessment
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Check or replace fire extinguishers
- Ensure furnishings comply with fire safety regulations
Mould & Damp
- Check for signs of mould, condensation, or musty smells
- Treat affected areas with diluted bleach and repaint as needed
Timber & Windows
- Inspect wooden frames and putty for rot or cracks
- Ensure proper drainage from sills
Paintwork
- Touch up high-traffic areas indoors and weathered spots outside
- Inspect and repaint outdoor furniture as needed
Exterior Inspection
- Examine brickwork, chimneys, and paths for cracks
- Repair loose steps or trip hazards
Septic Tank
- Schedule an annual solid waste removal
Garden
- Prune, mulch, weed, and reseed where needed
- Check outdoor taps for leaks
Trip Hazards
- Inspect flooring, carpets, and stairs for loose sections or warping
Winter Maintenance for Holiday Cottages
Winter can be brutal—rain, snow, storms, frost, and frozen pipes can wreak havoc. Here’s how to protect your property when the temperature drops.
Pipes & Heating
- Leave heating on low in vacant properties to prevent freezing
- If not using the home, turn off the water at the stopcock
- Ensure oil tanks are full if applicable
Insulation
- Insulate lofts, pipes, water tanks, and cylinders
- Fit lagging on external pipes
Loft Hatch
- Leave open during cold spells to allow warm air to circulate around pipes
Stopcock
- Know its location and check it works
Bleed Radiators
- Remove air pockets to improve heating efficiency
Ventilation
- Keep air flowing to reduce condensation and mould
- Use dehumidifiers and open windows periodically
Seal Gaps
- Draft-proof doors and windows
Leak Checks
- Periodically inspect taps, showers, and appliances
Security
- Test your alarm system and outdoor lighting
- Service locks and update key safe codes
Smart Devices
- Use smart thermostats, cameras, and leak detectors for remote monitoring
Surge Protection
- Install surge guards to protect electronics
Chimneys
- Sweep chimneys annually (or twice yearly if burning wood)
Roof
- Check for loose tiles and flashing
- Inspect after storms
Gutters & Drains
- Clear leaves and debris
- Check for signs of overflow or blockages
Trees & Bushes
- Trim back branches that could fall or damage property
Outbuildings & Fences
- Check sheds, garages, and fences for weatherproofing and secure locks
Outdoor Furniture
- Store safely to prevent damage or theft
Windows, Doors, & Ladders
- Check locks and safely secure ladders
Paths & Driveways
- Clear algae and leaves
- Provide salt, grit, and a shovel for guests
Emergency Kit
- Keep torches, first aid supplies, important numbers, and documents handy
Weather Alerts
- Use alert apps to stay informed about storms or floods
After the Storm Checklist
Once it’s safe:
- Inspect the roof for damage or missing tiles
- Check loft for leaks or sagging
- Assess fences, sheds, and furniture
- Look for fallen branches or uprooted trees
Ongoing Checks
If your property is vacant during winter, have someone perform regular checks (frequency may be specified by your insurer).
Use a transition checklist between guest stays to make sure all essentials are in place and your property is always ready.
In Summary
Maintaining your holiday home throughout the year helps you avoid costly disasters and keeps your insurance valid. Prevention is always better than cure.
Key takeaways:
- Conduct regular maintenance checks, especially before winter and after bad weather
- Address issues promptly to avoid long-term damage
- Ensure guests know what to do in case of an emergency
- Remember: insurance won’t cover damage due to wear and tear or lack of maintenance