A vacation rental inspection checklist catches problems before guests do. Broken appliances, missing supplies, stained linens, and maintenance issues that go unnoticed between turnovers turn into bad reviews and refund requests. Running a structured inspection after every cleaning and before every check-in eliminates those surprises.
Vacation Rental Inspection Checklist: Kitchen
Check that all appliances are working: stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, coffee maker. Open the fridge and verify it is clean and cold. Run the garbage disposal. Confirm all dishes, utensils, and cookware listed in your property description are present and clean. Check under the sink for leaks. Verify that cleaning supplies for guest use (dish soap, sponge, trash bags) are stocked.
Vacation Rental Inspection Checklist: Bathrooms
Flush every toilet. Run every faucet and check for leaks or slow drains. Test the shower head pressure and temperature. Verify that towels are fresh, folded, and in the correct quantity. Check toilet paper supply (leave at least two rolls per bathroom). Confirm soap, shampoo, and conditioner are stocked. Inspect grout, caulking, and tile for mold or mildew. Check the exhaust fan.
Vacation Rental Inspection Checklist: Bedrooms
Inspect all linens for stains, tears, or wear. Check that mattress protectors are in place. Count pillows and verify they match your listing. Test bedside lamps and overhead lights. Open and close all drawers and closet doors to confirm they function. Look under beds for items left by previous guests. Verify that hangers are available in closets.
Vacation Rental Inspection Checklist: Living Areas
Test the TV, remote, and streaming devices. Check WiFi connectivity and confirm the password matches what is listed for guests. Verify all light switches and lamps work. Inspect upholstered furniture for stains. Check that throw blankets and pillows are clean and staged. Look behind furniture for debris the cleaning crew may have missed.
Vacation Rental Inspection Checklist: Exterior and Entry
Test the lockbox or smart lock. Verify the door key works smoothly. Check exterior lighting (porch lights, pathway lights). Sweep the entryway and porch. Inspect the grill if applicable (clean grates, propane level). Check outdoor furniture for cleanliness. Verify that the garbage and recycling bins are empty.
Safety and Compliance Checks
Test every smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector. Confirm the fire extinguisher is accessible and charged. Check that the first aid kit is stocked. Verify that the emergency information card (local hospital, poison control, your contact number) is displayed. These items are not optional. Airbnb and Vrbo both require functioning safety equipment, and local regulations in Connecticut and Pennsylvania mandate specific compliance standards.
Using This Checklist With Your Cleaning Crew
Print this checklist and give it to your turnover cleaning crew. Have them complete it after every cleaning and send you a photo verification. At Wanderlust Rentals, we build inspection checklists into every turnover and send hosts a report with photos so you know the property is guest-ready without driving over to check yourself.
Need help with turnover cleaning and inspections? Browse our Airbnb cleaning services or contact us for a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I inspect my rental before every guest?
Yes, or have your cleaning crew do it on your behalf with a standardized checklist and photo verification. Catching a problem before check-in is far cheaper than dealing with a guest complaint afterward.
How long does an inspection take?
A trained crew can run through a full inspection in 15-20 minutes as part of the turnover process. Standalone inspections without cleaning take about 30 minutes for a typical 2-bedroom rental.
