An Airbnb inspection checklist is a verification system used to confirm a rental is clean, safe, and fully functional before guest arrival. Also, maintain consistent standards to make sure everything that meets guest satisfaction and compliance requirements.
Skipping inspections can lead to bad reviews, safety issues, and lost years of reputation. It helps protect your property and your guests by spotting problems before they become bigger issues. It also keeps a record of the space, making claims or payouts easier if something goes wrong.
As always, we give value to the host. Here will be the same, we break down everything from when, where, and what to inspect, show high-risk areas, and provide actionable steps. Follow our Airbnb inspection checklist to prevent damage, disputes, and complaints while keeping guests happy and bookings secure.
When Airbnb Inspections Should Be Done?
Airbnb inspections should be done after guest checkout, after cleaning, before check-in, after repairs, during monthly or quarterly checks, and through an annual deep inspection. Inspections work best when they’re part of a complete Airbnb host checklist, not a one-off task. Heres indetailed list covering when and what inspect:
- After Guest Checkout: Inspect the property as soon as guests leave to identify damage, missing items, rule violations, or unusual wear. This is the best time to document issues and protect potential claims.
- Before New Guest Check-In: Perform a final readiness checklist to ensure the space is fully prepared for arrival. Test the locks, Wi-Fi, appliances, lighting, HVAC, and safety devices so guests walk into a home that works exactly as expected.
- After Cleaning Is Completed: Confirm the cleaning meets higher standards and that nothing was missed. Verify restocked supplies, ensure furniture is set up correctly, and provide fresh linens. If any maintenance issues arise solved them during cleaning before guests arrive.
- After Maintenance or Repair Work: Always inspect completed repairs to ensure work quality, safety, and proper cleanup. This step confirms that the problems have been fully resolved and that nothing affects the guest experience.
- During Routine Monthly or Quarterly Checks: Schedule deeper inspections to catch slow-developing issues. Such as appliance wear, moisture buildup, HVAC performance, furniture stability, and exterior damage. Its the key protecting the property and avoiding costly surprises.
Pre-Arrival Airbnb Inspection Checklist
A pre-arrival Airbnb checklist is not just about cleaning or setting up the space. It’s about ensuring the guest’s satisfaction before they arrive. It helps identify the missing details that could prevent a bad impression during the last-minute guest’s check-in.
Overall, it’s not just a repeat of cleaning, it’s the confirmation that your property is ready to use. Keep the pre-arrival Airbnb checklist ready before the guest arrives, so they can wow with feedback after they leave.
Entry and Access
- Door locks work smoothly
- Smart lock codes updated
- Keys present and functional
- Door closes and seals properly
- Exterior lights working
- Fix or replace wasted or burnt-out bulbs
- Entry is clear of hazards
- Ensure all security cameras work
Living Area
- Furniture is stable and clean, no stains or damage.
- Check surfaces, carpets, and rugs.
- Test TV, remotes, Wi-Fi, and devices.
- Lamps and outlets functional.
- Essentials stocked (towels, pillows, soap, toilet paper)
- Safety items (smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguisher)
- Welcome book and host info in place.
For a comprehensive guide to making your property spotless and welcoming to guests, check out our Airbnb cleaning checklist.
Kitchen Inspection Checklist
The kitchen is the area where guests first notice hygiene and functionality. Test one by befor they arrive. Make sure there is no smell from the sink or fridge. Everything is perfectly put in place and meets health and safety standards. Catch them before check-in.
- The refrigerator is cold and clean
- Stove and oven safe
- Microwave functional and the coffee maker work
- Dishes are clean and complete
- Cookware not chipped
- Thermometers sanitized
- Food is properly labeled and intact
- PHFs correct temperature
- Freezer maintains proper temperature
- Foods 6+ inches off the floor
- Raw foods separated
- Sinks stocked with soap, towels
- Counters and surfaces care lean
- Floors, walls, and ceilings are clean
- No odors or spills
- Utensils sanitized
- Fire extinguisher present
- Electrical wiring safe
- Lighting functional, covers intact
- Ventilation is clean and working
- Exits clear and no signs of pests
- Bins covered and emptied
- Trash and recycling cleared
- Cleaning schedules maintained
- Temperature logs updated
- Staff trained in hygiene
It can be hard to keep everything in order, but our Airbnb inventory checklist ensures that every dish, utensil, and appliance is accounted for before guests arrive.
Bathroom Inspection Checklist
Before a guest steps in, check the bathroom as if you were walking in yourself. Inspect
Toilets flush, faucets, showers, and towels are clean or not. Small issues like missing soap can hamper reputation. Catch them now, stressful messages later. Only a 5-star guest experience, along with a good review every time.
- Sink drains smoothly
- Faucets run without splashing
- Mirror is lean and streak-free
- Floors are dry and clean
- The trash bin is empty with a liner
- Toilet brush present and clean
- Plunger accessible
- Bath mat clean and dry
- The working bright light
- No personal items visible
- No hair on surfaces
- Shower curtain or door clean
- Grout and seals care lean
- Storage space available
Bedroom Inspection Checklist
You know? Most negative reviews start with poor sleep. The bedroom is where comfort, cleanliness, and trust are tested. If you inspect properly, guests feel they are cared for, and no damage or hygiene issues are missed. In this way, you earn more trust and can avoid complaints and bad reviews.
- Bed frame stable
- The mattress is clean and protected
- Fresh linens fitted properly
- Pillows are clean and odor-free
- Extra pillows or blankets available
- Nightstands clean
- Lamps working
- Light switches functional
- Adequate room lighting
- Floors clean
- Under-bed area clean
- Furniture dust-free
- Curtains or blinds are working
- Closet or storage accessible
- Hangers provided
- Trash bin empty
- Tissues provided
- Climate control working
- The room smells fresh
- Smoke detector working
- Windows open and lock smoothly
- Door locks working
- Furniture stable, no damage
- Outlets functional
- No burnt-out bulbs
Safety and Compliance Inspection Checklist
A well-managed safety and compliance inspection checklist is a non-negotiable. Either Airbnb or the guest, no one negotiated this. Smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and locks aren’t optional its lifelines. As a host, confirm that safety devices work, that hazards are removed, and that rules are met before a guest or an Airbnb finds the problem.
- Smoke detectors tested
- Carbon monoxide detectors tested
- Fire extinguisher charged and accessible
- Emergency exits clear
- First aid kit stocked
- Locks on doors and windows functional
- Rugs and handrails secure
- No exposed wiring
- Appliances are functional (HVAC, kitchen, water heater)
- High-touch areas clean
- House rules provided
- Emergency contacts posted
- Short-term rental insurance verified
Maintenance and Damage Inspection
Your Airbnb reputation solely relies on the maintenance and damage inspection list. If you care about your reputation, it will generate revenue. If you don’t, you’ll get complaints and refund requests. That’s why every check you do now saves you money and protects your reputation. Also makes you feel better, and keeps your listing’s credibility safe.
- Walls clean, no marks
- Floors intact, no cracks
- No water stains
- Furniture joints secure
- Doors/drawers aligned
- Cabinets/shelves stable
- HVAC working, filters clean
- Plumbing leak-free, heater works
- Smoke/CO detectors functional
- Fire extinguisher present
- Appliances clean and functional
- Decks/patios are safe
- Gutters/windows maintained
- Paths clear, hazard-free
- No pests visible
- Dryer vents clean
- Locks, cameras, and lights are working
- Inspect post-guest
High-Risk Items to Inspect Closely
This is where small oversights create big consequences. High-risk items affect guest safety, trust, and damage claims more than anything else in your listing. An unlocked door, broken appliance, or hidden leak can ruin weeks of good hosting in just one stay. These checks are also non-negotiable, and inspect them carefully after every turnover.
- Smoke and CO detectors
- Fire extinguisher
- Emergency exits
- Emergency contacts
- First-aid kit
- Flashlights
- Smart locks
- Door and window locks
- Hidden cameras check
- Electrical outlets
- Wiring and cords
- Wi-Fi router
- Stairs and railings
- Furniture
- Plumbing fixtures
- AC and heating systems
- Water shutoff access
- Mattresses
- Sofas and upholstery
- Linens and floors
- Pillow and mattress protectors
Use our Airbnb Safety Checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything important before your next guest arrives. It goes through the fire, electrical, and emergency checklist, room by room.
Monthly & Seasonal Airbnb Inspection Checklist
Without monthly and seasonal inspections, the risk of failure (property, appliance, system, safety) increases. As appliances get older, their seals weaken, and their safety systems stop working properly. Structured inspections identify problems before they affect guests. This isn’t a maintenance show, it’s a show on how hosts keep things running smoothly, protect ratings, and make sure they can predict revenue. Let’s see the monthly and session list that you should inspect.
Monthly
- Deep clean kitchen exhaust, baseboards, and fans
- Wipe light fixtures and grout
- Test appliances (washer, dryer, fridge, dishwasher)
- Check TVs, remotes, and Wi-Fi
- Replace batteries as needed
- Restock essentials (TP, soap, coffee, kitchenware)
- Inspect for broken or missing items
- Test smoke and CO detectors
- Check fire extinguisher accessibility
- Inspect plumbing and shower caulking
- Ensure sump pumps work
- Change or clean HVAC filters
Seasonal
- Inspect the roof, exterior paint, and chimney
- Clear gutters and downspouts
- Check windows, screens, and door/window seals
- Prepare landscaping, garden, and outdoor areas
- Service HVAC for heating or cooling
- Maintain decks, patios, grills, and outdoor furniture
- Check pool/spa functionality
- Inspect outdoor lighting and security systems
- Seal cracks and prevent water or pest entry
- Ensure snow/ice access and emergency supplies
- Maintain indoor plants and seasonal decor
Airbnb Inspection Checklist for Remote Hosts
Managing an Airbnb without being on-site means you don’t get second chances. Cleaners can miss details, appliances can fail, and safety issues can go unnoticed unless someone is actively checking. A remote inspection checklist gives you clear visibility into your property’s condition, helping you catch problems early and fix them before they reach the guest. Options include:
- Test smoke and CO detectors
- Check detector batteries
- Ensure the fire extinguisher is accessible
- Stock first-aid kit
- Post emergency contacts and exits
- Confirm doors and windows lock
- Test smart locks and batteries
- Verify exterior cameras disclosed
- Deep clean floors, ceilings, and walls
- Sanitize high-touch areas
- Fresh bedroom linens and pillows
- Stock bedside amenities
- Clean bathrooms; supply toiletries and towels
- Clean kitchen appliances
- Stock cookware, utensils, coffee/tea
- Empty trash and replace liners
- Confirm fast, reliable Wi-Fi
- Provide printed network info
- Laptop-friendly desk and chair
- Charging stations/USB ports functional
- Smart TV and streaming-ready
- Provide books, games, or entertainment
- Include small welcome basket
- Test all lamps and lighting
- Check HVAC (heat/AC)
- Inspect furniture for damage/instability
- Check plumbing for leaks and drains
- Tidy patios, walkways, and outdoor furniture
- Check the grill and exterior equipment
- Look for smoking or damage evidence
- Use the digital checklist consistently
- Take photos of each room
- Maintain recurring inspection schedule
- Coordinate with local cleaners and handymen
For remote hosts, having the right support makes all this easier. Learn how an Airbnb VA vs Co-Host vs Property Manager can handle operations perfectly on your behalf of you.
How to Use an Airbnb Inspection Checklist Properly
To use an Airbnb inspection checklist properly, systematically inspect every area. Start with the kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas, and exterior. Focus on cleanliness, functionality, and safety (you can check floors, walls, locks, lighting, appliances, Wi-Fi, HVAC, and caulking). Make sure your property offers fresh linens, stocked supplies, and working safety devices. Don’t forget to take photos of issues, log recurring problems, and fix root causes immediately.
Conduct inspections after each guest and more frequently during peak seasons. Follow a consistent order for each inspection to avoid missing details. Room-by-room, check:
- Exterior & Entry: lights, pathways, locks, clutter, parking, entry instructions
- Kitchen: clean surfaces and appliances, sufficient supplies, check pantry/fridge
- Bathrooms: sinks, toilets, showers, caulking, toiletries, towels
- Bedrooms: fresh linens, clean furniture, working lamps, clear clutter
- Living Areas: furniture condition, wall/floor integrity, blinds, light fixtures
Airbnb Inspection Checklist PDF & Templates
A ready-to-use Airbnb inspection checklist PDF gives structure to every inspection. These standardized inspections save you time and provide clear documentation. So every checklist is consistent and easy to delegate or scale.
Download Inspection Checklist PDF
How STR Assistance Uses Airbnb Inspection Checklists?
STR Assistance is a short-term rental virtual assistant company specializing in Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms. We don’t treat inspections as a formality, we use the inspection checklist as a control system. Over the past couple of years, we have helped achieve host status on Airbnb Plus and have recently created a complete Airbnb Plus checklist with updated requirements to help you meet your hosting goals and land your dream listing effortlessly.
Through this cheacklist we manage, we coordinate, and we handle communication to ensure the job is done perfectly and on time. We verify everything as per the promise to the host, from cleaning to listing.
As we work remotely, our virtual assistants coordinate inspections with the highest priority to make every guest’s stay more comfortable and clean, and to give them the special feel they deserve.
Our eagle-eye inspections always protect hosts when things go wrong. We document property condition, track damage, and use inspection records to support Airbnb damage claims and disputes. This makes claims stronger, faster, and easier to defend.
For hosts who aren’t on-site, proper inspections replace stress with visibility. You don’t have to guess if your property is ready. We verify it, document it, and keep operations running smoothly so you can scale without losing control.
FAQs
Is An Airbnb Inspection Required?
Not at all. Regular listings on Airbnb don’t have to be inspected by Airbnb, but many cities do require inspections for short-term rentals to make sure they follow health and safety rules. To keep standards high and avoid problems, hosts also do inspections before or after check-in.
Who Is Responsible For Inspections?
Hosts are primarily responsible for Airbnb inspections, ensuring routine post-stay checkouts, maintenance reviews, and periodic deep assessments. They may involve cleaners, co-hosts, or professionals. Airbnb only conducts official verifications for select programs, while local laws may require safety inspections.
How Long Should An Inspection Take?
A standard professional Airbnb inspection takes 2–4 hours. Quick post-checkout walkthroughs take 30–60 minutes, while larger or older homes may require 4–6+ hours. Detailed reports or documentation typically take an additional 24–48 hours.
Can Inspections Help With Airbnb Damage Claims?
Yes. Inspections help Airbnb damage claims by documenting property conditions before and after each stay. Photos, inventories, and detailed notes show guest-caused damage versus normal wear, support AirCover or Host Damage Protection cases, speed up resolutions, and provide clear evidence for disputes.
Final Thought
Every great Airbnb stay begins long before the guest arrives, and inspections are where that care starts. By following a thorough checklist room by room, from entry and living spaces to kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and outdoor areas help you to catch small problems before they grow into complaints, safety hazards, or lost income.
Inspect all High-risk items (smoke detectors, smart locks, electrical outlets) and appliances to ensure they work at their best. Because these directly affect guest safety, trust, and damage claims. Documenting every check protects hosts during disputes and supports Airbnb’s Host Damage Protection when something goes wrong.
Many hosts prefer remote virtual assistance so that the inspection goes smoothly without mistakes. Seasonal and monthly inspections catch slow-developing issues, while post-cleaning and pre-arrival checks guarantee every guest experiences comfort and security.
Overall, a structured Airbnb inspection checklist is a system that protects your property and maintains your reputation. It keeps guests happy and your bookings steady.
