Summer in Colorado's ski towns might mean quieter streets and sunny hikes—but for short-term rental owners, it's the golden window to tackle essential maintenance before winter returns in full force. The off-season gives you the time and space to prep your property for the high-demand months ahead, ensuring everything is in peak condition when the snow starts to fall and guests flood in.
Here’s a summer maintenance checklist every short-term rental owner should follow to keep their property safe, cozy, and profitable when the ski season hits:

1. Inspect and Service Heating Systems

Colorado winters are no joke, and your guests will expect a warm, reliable space after a day on the slopes.

Furnace & Boiler Maintenance: Schedule professional servicing for your furnace, boiler, or radiant floor heating. Replace filters and check for any leaks or inefficiencies.
Thermostat Check: Test programmable thermostats and consider upgrading to smart thermostats to better manage energy use between guest stays.

2. Roof & Gutter Inspection

Heavy snow and ice dams can cause major issues if your roof and gutters aren’t in top shape.

Inspect for Damage: Look for missing shingles, soft spots, or signs of leaks.
Clean & Repair Gutters: Ensure proper drainage to prevent ice damming.
Install Heat Tape: If your property is prone to ice buildup, now’s the time to add or replace heat tape.

3. Winterize Exterior Plumbing

Outdoor faucets and irrigation lines can freeze and burst in the winter, leading to costly repairs.

Shut Off & Drain: Turn off outdoor water supplies and drain hoses and sprinkler systems.
Insulate Pipes: Wrap any exposed plumbing, especially in crawl spaces or exterior walls.

4. Deep Clean & Inspect Guest Amenities

Summer is the perfect time to deep clean and assess wear and tear from the busy winter season.

Hot Tubs & Saunas: Clean, descale, and inspect for leaks or malfunctioning components.
Appliance Check: Make sure all major appliances are functioning well. Replace or repair anything that’s outdated or showing signs of failure.
Fireplaces: Clean chimneys, inspect flues, and ensure gas lines are functioning safely.

5. Stock Up & Replace Winter Essentials

Beat the seasonal supply rush by stocking up early.

Shovels, Ice Melt, Roof Rakes: Make sure all snow management tools are in good condition and accessible.
Firewood Supply: If you offer a wood-burning fireplace or outdoor fire pit, restock now while prices and demand are lower.
Emergency Kits: Check smoke and CO detectors, refresh emergency lighting, and restock winter supplies like blankets, batteries, and flashlights.

6. Preventative Pest Control

As the weather cools, rodents and pests seek warmth—don’t let your property be their destination.

Seal Entry Points: Inspect the exterior for gaps or holes.
Clean Crawlspaces and Attics: Remove clutter and check for signs of infestations.
Consider Professional Treatment: A one-time treatment can offer protection throughout the winter.

7. Schedule a Handyman Walkthrough

Finally, get a full property inspection from a local handyman familiar with the unique needs of mountain homes. An experienced pro can catch small issues before they turn into mid-winter emergencies, saving you money and guest complaints during your busiest season.

Taking the time during summer to maintain and upgrade your rental can mean fewer headaches, better reviews, and more bookings in the winter. If you need help checking off your to-do list, our team is here to make sure your property is ski-season ready—efficiently and affordably.

Contact us today to schedule your off-season maintenance walkthrough!

Summer Maintenance Checklist