As the leaves change and the air gets crisp, short-term rental hosts know one thing: winter is coming. And with it comes a whole new set of challenges and considerations. But fear not! With a little preparation and some expert tips, you can ensure your rental is cozy, safe, and inviting for all your winter guests. At Corzly, we’ve helped countless hosts navigate the seasonal shift. 

Here are our top 7 tips for getting your property winter-ready.

1. Prioritize Guest Safety with Proper Heating and Fire Prevention: When the temperature drops, the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning goes up. Start by getting your fireplace cleaned annually and considering a switch to a gas version with a timer. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure your carbon monoxide detectors are working. Remember, guest safety should always be your top priority!
2. Get Your Kitchen Holiday-Ready: The holidays mean more cooking, more often. Take a moment to deep clean your oven and stove, and check your cookware for any worn-out pieces that need replacing. This is also a great time to test your smoke detectors and make sure they’re in good working order. A little kitchen TLC goes a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring guest satisfaction.
3. Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls in Wet Areas: Winter weather means wet, slippery surfaces. Stay on top of snow removal in driveways and walkways, and keep salt or sand on hand for icy patches. Provide doormats and indoor slippers to minimize wet floors inside. And don’t forget to check your insurance – in some cases, you could be responsible for guest safety on adjoining trails, not just your property.
4. Adjust Heating and Comfort Settings: Guests will likely be adjusting the thermostat more often in the winter. Make sure your heating system is easy to control and can accommodate different comfort preferences. Check your insulation and update your guidebook to set the right expectations. For more tips on smart thermostats, check out Corzly’s Episode 184!
5. Ensure Adequate Lighting and Visibility: As days get shorter, outdoor lighting becomes increasingly important. Make sure walkways, driveways, and entrances are well-lit to help guests navigate safely. If you use candles for ambiance, consider swapping them for safer LED alternatives. And remember – most insurance policies prohibit open flames, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
6. Be Prepared for Winter Emergencies: Accidents can happen, so it’s crucial to be prepared. Stock a first aid kit and make sure it’s easily accessible to guests. Provide clear instructions on how to contact you and local emergency services, including the nearest hospital. And don’t forget to keep a fire extinguisher under the kitchen sink!
7. Communicate Clearly with Winter Guests: Clear communication is key to a successful winter stay. Provide detailed instructions on using the heating system, finding extra blankets, and navigating any potential hazards like snow or ice around the property. Remind guests to be cautious with space heaters and never leave candles unattended. A little guidance can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay.

Preparing your short-term rental for winter may seem daunting, but with these 7 tips, you’ll be well on your way to providing a top-notch guest experience. 

At Corzly, we’re dedicated to helping hosts succeed in every season.

Corzly manages short-term rental properties across 50+ cities. If you’d like to understand how your current setup compares to what’s working in your market today, we’re happy to take a look. Contact us here.