Airbnb Host Checklist: Preparing Your Property for 5-Star Guests
Still relying on mental notes to get your property ready for guests? It’s easy to overlook the details that shape a guest’s first impression. This comprehensive checklist is designed to help you ensure every essential element is in place before each check-in—covering safety, cleanliness, comfort, and clarity.
Whether you’re just starting out or have hosted hundreds of guests, the foundations of a great stay remain the same. Don’t let overlooked basics like broken lights, missing instructions, or lack of toilet paper ruin your reviews. Use this guide to deliver a smooth, professional, and guest-ready experience every time.
Why Preparation Matters
The best guest experiences are the result of proactive systems, not last-minute rushes. Being consistently prepared not only protects your property and reputation but reduces guest complaints, avoids emergency calls, and builds the kind of trust that keeps guests coming back.
A checklist also ensures legal responsibilities are met, your property remains safe, and expectations are clearly communicated to your guests—especially if your accommodation is self-catering.
1. Health & Safety Essentials
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Smoke alarms must be installed on every floor of the property.
Carbon monoxide alarms are essential where gas appliances, open fires, or wood burners are present.
Test alarms before every guest stay.
Keep a log of test dates and outcomes.
PAT Testing for Electrical Appliances
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is not compulsory in most short-let properties, but it is highly recommended.
Ensure all electrical appliances (e.g., kettle, toaster, hairdryer) are checked periodically by a competent person.
Keep a record of items tested and dates.
Legionella Risk Management
If a property has been unoccupied for several days or more, water systems (showers, taps) should be flushed.
Clean showerheads regularly and check any water storage systems.
Maintain a log of checks and action taken, even if informal.
Gas Safety Certificates
If your property has any gas appliances, you are legally required to obtain an annual Gas Safety Certificate from a Gas Safe registered engineer.
File and store certificates for your records and future reference.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
Arrange an EICR at least every five years, conducted by a qualified electrician.
Keep this report with your safety documentation.
2. Security & Access
Access and Entry Systems
Use either secure keyless entry (smart lock) or a lockbox with a coded entry system.
Change access codes regularly, particularly if you manage the property remotely.
Outdoor Lighting
Ensure exterior lighting works properly, especially at the entrance and any shared access routes.
Motion sensor lights are recommended for both safety and guest reassurance.
Locks and Internal Security
All windows and doors must close and lock securely.
Clearly explain how to operate any non-standard locks in your guest manual or welcome pack.
3. Cleanliness and Maintenance
Deep Clean and Turnover Procedures
Create a standardised cleaning checklist and ensure it’s followed every time.
Clean less visible areas regularly (behind doors, under beds, around bins).
Linen and Towels
Always provide clean, fresh bed linen and towels for each new stay.
Include a minimum of:
One bath towel and one hand towel per guest.
Fresh bed sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers.
Routine Maintenance
Check for:
Flickering or dead lightbulbs.
Leaks or damp patches.
Malfunctioning appliances.
Blocked or slow-draining sinks and showers.
Address small issues before they become complaints.
4. Kitchen and Bathroom Essentials
Kitchen Equipment
A fully self-catering setup should include:
Kettle, toaster, microwave, fridge.
Pots, pans, plates, glasses, mugs, and cutlery.
Chopping board, cooking utensils, tin opener, and bottle opener.
Washing-up liquid, sponge/brush, tea towel, and bin bags.
Basic Provisions
Provide the following as a minimum for a comfortable arrival:
Tea, coffee, sugar, and ideally a small amount of milk.
Salt, pepper, and cooking oil are optional but appreciated.
Make it clear in your listing and guide if you only provide starter supplies and guests should bring or buy additional items for longer stays.
Bathroom Supplies
Provide:
Two toilet rolls per bathroom.
Hand soap.
A starter supply of shampoo and shower gel.
Bath mat and hand towel.
This should be enough for a comfortable arrival and most short stays (typically 3–7 nights).
If your accommodation is self-catering, clearly state that guests are expected to bring or purchase their own supplies for longer bookings. You are not required to provide consumables for a 90-day stay, as long as this is made clear.
5. Presentation and First Impressions
Clean and Neutral Presentation
Ventilate the property before check-in.
Eliminate any odours (clean bins, freshen drains).
Curtains open and lights on create a welcoming feel.
Fixtures and Fittings
Windows and mirrors should be spotless.
All bulbs should be working.
Heating and hot water must be functional with clear instructions on use.
6. Information & Communication
Welcome Pack / House Manual
At a minimum, this should include:
Wi-Fi name and password.
How to use appliances (heating, hob, TV, shower, etc.).
Emergency contacts (yours or your management company).
Bin collection days and recycling information.
Check-out time and instructions.
Check-In & Check-Out Instructions
Provide:
Access details (with photos if necessary).
Where to park (if applicable).
Instructions for key return and securing the property.
Whether guests should strip beds or take out rubbish.
Be clear, simple, and leave nothing open to interpretation.
7. Documentation and Record-Keeping
Maintain a central location (digital or printed folder) with:
Smoke/CO alarm test logs.
PAT test records.
Legionella check records (even informal).
Gas Safety Certificates.
EICRs.
Signed cleaning checklists.
Maintenance reports and fixes logged by date.
This isn’t just for peace of mind—it also protects you in the event of an insurance claim, complaint, or inspection.
Final Thoughts
Your Airbnb doesn’t need luxury frills to earn five-star reviews. It needs to be clean, safe, well-equipped, and reliable. The most common complaints come from missing basics, poor communication, or unclear expectations.
Use this checklist to create a repeatable system that helps you deliver consistently high standards. If you’re unsure where you stand on compliance or want help refining your setup, we’re here to support.
Book a Free Discovery Call
If you’d like support reviewing your setup, compliance obligations, or want help implementing a more efficient system for hosting, book a free discovery call today. We’ll walk you through it.
