airbnb turnover tips

Standard Operating Procedure: Short-Term Rental Property Turnover

Document Control

• Document ID: SOP-OPS-TR-[__________]
• Version: 1.0
• Effective Date: [__________]
• Review Cycle: Quarterly

1. Purpose & Scope

This document defines the standardized workflow for transitioning a property between guests to ensure consistent quality, hygiene, and operational efficiency. This procedure applies to all units managed by [Company Name].

2. Prerequisites

• Cleaning Kit: Multi-surface cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant, microfiber cloths, vacuum with HEPA filter, mop.
• Inventory: Fresh linens (sets: []), towels (sets: []), toiletries, coffee/tea supplies.
• Access: Digital lock code or physical key access for [Property Address].
• Documentation: Inspection checklist, inventory log, [Property Management System] access.

3. Roles & Responsibilities

4. Step-by-Step Procedure

Phase 1: Pre-Departure and Stripping

• Verify guest checkout status via [Property Management System].
• Enter property and perform immediate walkthrough for major damage.
• Strip all beds, including mattress protectors if stained.
• Remove all used towels and bath mats.
• Collect all trash and recycling from every room.

Phase 2: Deep Clean and Sanitization

• Dust all surfaces, including ceiling fans, baseboards, and light fixtures.
• Clean and disinfect all high-touch surfaces (switches, handles, remotes).
• Clean kitchen: wipe inside/outside appliances, sanitize counters, scrub sink.
• Clean bathrooms: scrub toilet, shower/tub, vanity, and polish mirrors.
• Vacuum all carpets; mop all hard floors using [Cleaning Solution Name].

Phase 3: Staging and Replenishment

• Remake beds with fresh linens (check for stains/tears before placing).
• Place fresh towel sets in bathrooms (quantity: [__________]).
• Replenish consumables: soap, shampoo, coffee, sugar, and toilet paper.
• Arrange furniture according to the [Property Staging Guide].
• Ensure all lightbulbs and electronics are functional.

Phase 4: Final Inspection and Handover

• Conduct final walkthrough using the [Inspection Checklist].
• Lock all windows and doors; set thermostat to [__________] degrees.
• Update status in [Property Management System] to "Ready for Guest."
• Upload photos of the staged unit to the [Internal Portal].

5. Quality Assurance, Pro-Tips, and Pitfalls

• Quality Assurance: Random spot checks performed by [Manager Name] once per month.
• Pro-Tips: Use a "scent memory" strategy by using the same cleaning supplies across all units to create a consistent brand experience.
• Common Pitfalls:
  • Forgetting to check inside the microwave or under the bed.
  • Leaving personal cleaning supplies in guest-accessible areas.
  • Failing to verify that the Wi-Fi router is reset and operational.

6. FAQs

Q: What should I do if I find damage during the turnover? A: Document the damage immediately with high-resolution photos, upload them to the [Property Management System], and notify [Manager Name] within 60 minutes of discovery.

Q: How do I handle guest items left behind? A: Place items in a labeled "Lost & Found" bin. Log the item, date, and room location in the [Lost & Found Register]. Notify the guest via the booking platform.