Your holiday home is somewhere to relax, unwind and enjoy time away. A little regular care helps keep it comfortable, looking its best and ready for your next visit.
Whether you’re new to holiday home ownership or have been enjoying your home for years, a simple maintenance routine can help you spot small problems early and stay on top of essential upkeep.
Here are some practical ways to care for your holiday home throughout the year.
Keep Gas, Electrical and Appliance Checks Up to Date
Looking after your holiday home means keeping its essential systems safe as well as working properly.
Arrange annual servicing of gas appliances, including your boiler, following the manufacturer’s guidance. Any gas work or safety checks should be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer qualified for the relevant gas type and appliances, including LPG where applicable.
Have your electrical installation inspected by a qualified electrician at the intervals specified by your manufacturer, park requirements and insurance policy. If you notice damaged sockets, frayed cables or other electrical faults, stop using the affected equipment and arrange professional advice.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly according to their instructions and replace batteries or alarms when required.
Speak to your park team about available maintenance services and local contractors.
Build a Seasonal Maintenance Routine
Spreading tasks across the year makes upkeep easier to manage.
Start with a spring clean and a check for any issues that may have developed over winter. During the season, keep surfaces clean, look out for leaks and check that doors and windows open, close and lock properly.
Before colder weather arrives, plan any winter preparation your home needs. Even if your park remains open, a holiday home left unoccupied during winter may need additional protection.
Keep a simple record of servicing dates, inspections and repairs so you know what is due next.
Care for the Exterior and Windows
Cleaning the outside helps keep your holiday home looking welcoming and gives you an opportunity to spot damaged seals, loose fittings or signs of wear.
Follow your manufacturer’s instructions for your cladding. Use a suitable cleaning product, a soft brush or cloth and a gentle rinse. Avoid pressure washing, abrasive products and directing water into vents or joints.
Window materials vary between holiday homes, so check whether yours are glass or acrylic before choosing a cleaner. Use products suitable for the material and follow the manufacturer’s care guidance.
Check gutters and downpipes for leaves or debris and arrange safe cleaning where needed. Leave roof work and repairs at height to a suitable professional.
Keep Your Holiday Home Fresh Between Visits
Good ventilation helps manage moisture. Keep fixed ventilation unobstructed and ventilate the home while you’re there, particularly after cooking or showering.
Before leaving, make sure furnishings are dry. Where practical, leave internal doors and cupboards ajar to help air circulate, and position loose cushions so air can move around them.
Moisture absorbers may help in enclosed spaces, but they do not replace ventilation or repairs. Investigate persistent condensation, damp patches or musty smells rather than simply masking them.
Close and lock external doors and windows before you leave.
Look After Your Decking
Decking benefits from regular attention, especially where leaves, dirt or algae can make surfaces slippery.
Follow the cleaning instructions for your decking material, whether timber, composite or another finish. Sweep away debris and use an appropriate cleaner when needed.
Check steps, handrails and fixings for damage or movement, and arrange repairs promptly. Timber decking may also need periodic treatment in line with the supplier’s guidance.
Prepare for Colder Weather
If you’re leaving your holiday home unoccupied during colder months, ask your park team about winterisation and professional drain-down services.
The correct process depends on your home and heating system, so follow your manufacturer’s guidance and use a suitably qualified professional. Check your insurance policy for any requirements relating to frost protection, drain-down and periods when the home is empty.
For an extended absence, remove perishable food, empty bins and leave the interior clean and dry. If switching off and emptying the fridge or freezer, leave its doors ajar. Secure outdoor furniture and follow the agreed winterisation plan for water, gas and electricity.
More Time to Enjoy Your Holiday Home
A manageable routine, supported by professional servicing when needed, helps keep your holiday home ready for many more enjoyable stays.
Existing owners can speak to their park team about maintenance arrangements and park-specific guidance.
Thinking about a home away from home? Browse our holiday homes and get in touch to find out more about ownership with The Family Parks Group.
