What maintenance items should I check monthly vs quarterly vs annually?

Category: Operations & Cleaning

By: James Wu

Posted: 2026-01-13T17:15:39.421Z

I've been reactive with maintenance — something breaks, I fix it. But I want to build a preventive maintenance schedule so I'm not constantly dealing with emergencies. What does your maintenance calendar look like? Especially for hosts who manage remotely and can't just swing by the property.

Reply by Jessica Morales:

Here's my STR maintenance schedule that I've refined over 3 years and 4 properties: **MONTHLY:** - HVAC filter replacement (I buy in bulk — $3 each vs $12 at Home Depot) - Check smoke detector and CO detector lights (batteries annually) - Run water in any unused fixtures (prevents P-trap drying out and sewer gas smell) - Test all door locks (smart locks + deadbolts) - Check under sinks for leaks - Clean dryer lint trap AND the exhaust vent (fire hazard) - Test all remotes and replace batteries if weak **QUARTERLY:** - Deep clean appliances (oven, microwave, fridge) - Inspect caulking in bathrooms and kitchen - Check water heater temperature (120°F max for guest safety) - Clean dishwasher with cleaning tab - Inspect exterior (roof visible areas, gutters if accessible, siding) - Flush water heater (5 min process, extends life significantly) - Touch-up paint on scuffed walls and trim **BIANNUALLY:** - HVAC professional inspection and tune-up - Pest control treatment - Professional carpet/upholstery cleaning - Pressure wash exterior and walkways - Clean windows inside and out **ANNUALLY:** - Smoke/CO detector battery replacement (even if they still work) - Fire extinguisher check (I have one in the kitchen) - Professional dryer vent cleaning - Replace mattress protectors - Replace pillows - Full inventory of furniture condition (anything to replace?) I keep all of this in a Google Calendar with recurring events and a shared Asana board with my property manager.

Reply by Emily Chen:

Remote host hack: I pay my cleaner an extra $25/month to do a "maintenance walk" during one of the monthly turnovers. She checks everything on the monthly list above and texts me a report. This catches 90% of issues before guests notice them. A dripping faucet, a flickering lightbulb, a loose doorknob — these are things that turn into 4-star reviews if you don't catch them early.

Reply by Ingrid Svensson:

Add to the list: replace the **shower head** annually. They're only $15-20 for a decent one, and the mineral buildup in most cities makes old shower heads feel weak. A strong, clean shower head is a small thing that guests notice. "Great water pressure!" shows up in my reviews regularly and it's because I swap shower heads every December.