Unlike hotels, short-term rentals typically provide their guests with checkout lists. Hosts do this to help streamline the turnover process and keep things up and running for the next guests. However, it is important not to overburden guests with tasks (they’re often on vacation, after all!). Instead, this guide walks hosts through the reasonable basics to include on your short-term rental checkout lists.
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What is a vacation rental checkout list?
Basically, a vacation rental checkout list is a small list of tasks that you ask each guest to do before leaving the property. They’re typically tasks that help streamline things for your cleaning crew when they arrive. As mentioned above, you want to make these tasks simple. The last thing someone wants to be doing is a total deep clean of a property they paid to stay in during their getaway.
What to include on your checkout list
Here are some tried and true examples of what to include on your checkout lists:
- Always confirm the check-out time as a friendly reminder.
- Ask guests to turn off any appliances or amenities they may have used, like coffee makers, kettles, TVs, etc.
- Load any used dishes into the dishwasher and start it.
- If applicable, turn off and cover the outdoor hot tub.
- Instruct guests on how to dispose of trash. If they’re checking out on a trash pick-up day, ask them to leave the bins outside for the garbage truck.
- Ask them to turn off all lights.
- Lock and close all windows and exterior doors.
What NOT to put on your checkout list
There are some things that just shouldn’t go on your checkout list. After all, your guests are paying a cleaning crew for a reason.
- Vaccuming
- Mopping
- Sweeping
- Dusting
- Cleaning appliances
- Moving laundry to the washer and dryer
- Making the bed
Tips for making your checkout list
Keep the following in mind when making your checkout list:
- Don’t give too many instructions. Instead, highlight a few important items.
- Don’t bury the check-out time. Have it clearly stated toward the top of the list.
- Use simple and straightforward language.
- Be friendly. Use phrases like “Please” and “Thank you”.
- Ask yourself, “Is what I’m asking still reasonable after they’ve already paid a cleaning fee?”
Where to put your checkout instructions
Include the check-out instructions in your welcome guide, checkout message, and physically displayed in an obvious place in the property.
FAQ
What should guests do before checking out of a vacation rental?
Guests should generally complete a few simple tasks before leaving, such as loading and starting the dishwasher, taking out trash as instructed, turning off lights and appliances, and locking all windows and exterior doors. Hosts should customize the list based on the property while keeping the requests reasonable.
How long should a vacation rental checkout list be?
A checkout list should be short enough for guests to read and complete in just a few minutes. Focus on the handful of tasks that genuinely help with turnover or protect the property rather than giving guests a long list of cleaning chores.
Should guests clean a vacation rental before checking out?
It’s okay to ask guests to do basic tasks like turning off lights and general tidying. But never request that they mop, vacuum, or do other tasks typically reserved for professional cleaners. Remember, they’re paying a cleaning fee!
Should guests take out the trash before checking out?
Taking tash out is a reasonable request to ask your guests. Clearly explain to them any specific recycling instructions and exactly where they should place the bins.
When should you send guests checkout instructions?
It’s a good idea to provide checkout instructions more than once. Include them in your welcome materials and property information, then send a brief reminder before checkout. Automated guest messaging can help ensure the right instructions reach guests without requiring you to remember to send each message manually.
Can you automate vacation rental checkout messages?
Yes! With Host Tools, you can automate your guest communication. This means a message is never forgotten and you can simply set it and forget it.
Final thoughts
A good checkout list is short, easy-to-follow, and isn’t asking too much of your guests. Be sure to automate this message with Host Tools. By adding this simple message to your daily hosting routine, you’ll make your turnover process as easy as pie.
Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!
