Vacation Rental Handyman Checklist for Myrtle Beach STR Owners

Guest traffic is the most reliable test of a property's maintenance condition. After 30–50 guest stays in a year, every weakness in your Myrtle Beach vacation rental shows up — door handles that loosen, shower fixtures that drip, weatherstripping that fails, outlets that spark, drawer hardware that falls off. A systematic annual handyman inspection catches all of it before it ends up in a guest review.

This checklist is designed to be completed once per year — ideally in late winter or early spring before peak season — either by yourself or by a professional handyman team.

Doors and Locks

• Test every door lock — keypad battery fresh, mechanical function smooth
• Test all deadbolts and door handles — tighten loose hardware
• Check door alignment — doors that stick or don't latch properly frustrate guests
• Inspect weatherstripping on all exterior doors — replace if cracked or compressed
• Lubricate all door hinges that squeak
• Check screen doors — repair torn screens, adjust closing tension

Windows

• Open and close all windows — ensure they operate smoothly and lock properly
• Check window screens — repair tears, ensure frames aren't bent
• Inspect caulking around window frames — recaulk any gaps or cracks
• Check for any condensation between double-pane windows (indicates failed seal)

Kitchen

• Test all outlets — replace any that don't hold plugs firmly
• Install or test GFCI outlets at kitchen countertop locations (code requirement)
• Check all cabinet hinges and drawer slides — tighten or replace worn hardware
• Test garbage disposal — clear any blockages, check for leaks
• Check under sink for any plumbing drips — address promptly
• Test dishwasher door latch and cycle

Bathrooms

• Test all outlets — GFCI required at all bathroom locations
• Check toilet flush mechanism — running toilets waste water and annoy guests
• Inspect toilet base caulking — recaulk if cracked (prevents moisture infiltration)
• Check faucet aerators — clean or replace if flow is reduced
• Test showerhead flow — descale or replace if pressure is reduced
• Check exhaust fan function — essential in Myrtle Beach's humid bathrooms
• Replace any caulking in tub/shower surround showing cracks or mold
• Check towel bars and toilet paper holders — tighten or re-anchor if loose

Bedrooms

• Test all ceiling fans — all speeds, lights, and remote controls
• Check all light switches and outlets
• Test window locks and ensure blackout curtains/blinds function smoothly
• Check closet doors — bifold doors especially tend to derail

Electrical Throughout

• Test all GFCI outlets — press test and reset buttons
• Check for any outlets that are loose in the wall (tighten or replace)
• Test all light fixtures — replace any burnt bulbs
• Check all ceiling fan mounting — loose fans are a guest safety concern
• Inspect smoke detectors and CO detectors — test and replace batteries

Exterior

• Check deck boards for rot, looseness, splinters — particularly post-storm-season
• Test all deck and porch railings — must be secure (liability concern)
• Check outdoor outlets — GFCI required, test function and weatherproofing
• Inspect outdoor furniture for structural integrity — replace damaged pieces
• Check gutter attachments — re-secure any loose gutter sections