Shipshape

The Moray Coast Holiday Let Cleaning Checklist

From Macduff to Nairn. For owners who want it done right.

Three sections. Three jobs. One standard. Whether you're throwing open the shutters after a Moray winter, turning a property round between guests, or tucking it up for the dark months ahead, you'll find everything you need right here. Use it yourself. Give it to your cleaner. Print it and pin it to the wall.

Send your owner a report automatically

Section 1: Season Opening (Spring Recommission)

For properties that close over winter, or go quiet between November and March. Do this before your first booking of the season.

Property Walkthrough

  • Walk every room. Check for signs of damp, mould, condensation, or musty smell
  • Inspect window seals and sills for black mould (common in coastal properties left unheated)
  • Check behind furniture and in wardrobe corners for mould growth
  • Look for evidence of mice or pest activity (droppings, chewed materials, nesting)
  • Test all light switches, lamps, and bulbs. Replace any that have failed over winter
  • Check all door handles and locks are working. Salt air corrodes metal fittings fast
  • Open and close all windows. Check catches, hinges, and seals
  • Run every tap (hot and cold) for several minutes to flush standing water
  • Flush all toilets and check for leaks or slow fills
  • Run the shower for five minutes. Check pressure, temperature, and drainage

Damp and Ventilation

  • Run dehumidifiers for 24 to 48 hours before deep cleaning begins
  • Check extractor fans in kitchen and bathrooms are working
  • Clean any mould from window frames, tile grout, and silicone seals
  • Check under sinks for leaks or condensation damage
  • Inspect loft space or roof void for damp, leaks, or wildlife damage
  • Check gutters and downpipes are clear (storm debris from winter)

Heating and Hot Water

  • Switch heating system on and test all radiators. Bleed any that are cold at the top
  • Test thermostat and timer settings. Reset for guest comfort
  • Run hot water system and confirm it reaches temperature
  • If oil heating: check oil level and arrange delivery if needed
  • If the property has a heat pump: confirm it's running and check filters

Log Burner or Solid Fuel Appliance

  • Confirm chimney has been swept (schedule annually, before the season if not done in autumn)
  • Clean out firebox. Remove all ash and debris
  • Check fire rope seal around the door. Replace if compressed or crumbling
  • Inspect glass panel for cracks
  • Check the hearth area is clean and presentable
  • Stock firewood and kindling. Provide firelighters and matches
  • Place operating instructions near the burner for guests

Deep Clean (Every Room)

  • Wash all windows inside and out (salt film builds up over winter on coastal properties)
  • Deep clean kitchen: oven, hob, extractor hood and filters, fridge/freezer (defrost if needed), microwave, dishwasher, all surfaces and cupboard fronts
  • Pull out appliances and clean behind and underneath
  • Deep clean bathrooms: descale taps, showerheads, and glass screens. Scrub grout. Clean toilet including base and behind
  • Clean all skirting boards, door frames, and light switches
  • Vacuum and clean all soft furnishings: sofas, cushions, curtains
  • Wash or dry clean all throws, blankets, and cushion covers
  • Flip or rotate mattresses. Check mattress protectors are clean and intact
  • Wash all bedding, including pillows, duvets, and protectors (not just covers)
  • Clean under all beds
  • Dust and wipe all surfaces, shelves, picture frames, lampshades
  • Vacuum or sweep all floors. Mop hard floors
  • Clean all mirrors and glass
  • Wipe inside all wardrobes, drawers, and cupboards

Outdoor Areas

  • Jet wash or scrub patio, decking, paths (algae and moss build up over winter)
  • Clean garden furniture. Check for salt corrosion or weather damage. Replace if needed
  • Check BBQ is clean and functioning. Replace gas if applicable
  • Sweep and clear entrance areas and boot rooms
  • Check outdoor lighting is working
  • Clear any garden waste or storm debris
  • If hot tub: recommission, test water chemistry, clean filters, check cover condition

Compliance and Safety (STL Licence Requirements)

  • Test all smoke alarms and replace batteries
  • Test all carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries
  • Check fire blanket is in the kitchen and accessible
  • Check fire extinguisher is in date and accessible
  • Confirm emergency exit routes are clear and signposted
  • Review fire safety risk assessment and update if anything has changed
  • Confirm gas safety certificate is current (annual requirement)
  • Confirm electrical installation condition report (EICR) is current (every 5 years)
  • Check portable appliance testing (PAT) labels are current on guest-accessible appliances
  • Confirm Legionella risk assessment is up to date
  • If private water supply: confirm water has been tested and meets standards
  • Confirm STL licence number is displayed at the property
  • Confirm STL licence number is shown on all booking platform listings
  • Check public liability insurance is current and covers the letting period
  • Check buildings insurance is current
  • Update guest information pack: emergency numbers, property instructions, Wi-Fi details, local information

Guest-Ready Presentation

  • Restock all consumables: toilet rolls, hand soap, washing-up liquid, dishwasher tablets, bin bags, kitchen roll
  • Provide fresh welcome basics: tea, coffee, sugar, milk (if your standard includes this)
  • Place fresh flowers, a welcome note, or local treats if part of your presentation
  • Check iron and ironing board are clean and working
  • Check vacuum or dustpan and brush for guest use is available and working
  • Set out midge spray or repellent (essential from May onwards on the Moray coast)
  • Put out local information: walks, restaurants, tide times, recycling guidance
  • Take a final walkthrough photo set for your own records

Section 2: Regular Changeover Clean

Between every guest. This is the clean that protects your reviews.

Before You Start

  • Check previous guest has left. Note any issues: damage, mess, missing items
  • Open windows for ventilation (weather permitting)
  • Collect and strip all used bedding, towels, and tea towels
  • Load first wash or bag for laundry service
  • Empty all bins (kitchen, bathroom, bedroom) and replace liners
  • Check for lost property. Set aside and notify owner

Kitchen

  • Wash all dishes or run dishwasher. Empty and put everything away
  • Wipe all worktops, splashbacks, and tiled areas
  • Clean hob, oven door, and microwave inside and out
  • Clean sink and taps. Check plughole is clear
  • Wipe down all cupboard fronts and handles
  • Clean fridge inside: shelves, drawers, door seals. Remove any guest food
  • Check freezer. Remove any guest items
  • Empty and clean toaster crumb tray
  • Wipe kettle exterior. Descale if needed
  • Clean extractor fan or hood filter if visibly greasy
  • Sweep and mop floor
  • Restock consumables: washing-up liquid, dishwasher tablets, bin bags, sponges

Bathrooms

  • Clean toilet inside and out, including base, hinges, and behind
  • Clean bath or shower: walls, screen, tray, taps, and showerhead
  • Clean sink, taps, and mirror
  • Wipe all surfaces, shelves, and cabinets
  • Check grout and silicone seals for mould (address immediately on coastal properties)
  • Clean floor including behind toilet and around edges
  • Hang fresh towels and bath mat
  • Restock toilet rolls, hand soap, and any toiletries you provide

Bedrooms

  • Make all beds with fresh, clean linen
  • Check mattress protector is clean. Replace if stained
  • Dust all surfaces: bedside tables, dressers, shelves, windowsills
  • Wipe mirrors and any glass
  • Empty and wipe inside wardrobes and drawers
  • Check under the bed (lost property, dust, debris)
  • Vacuum or sweep floor, including under furniture and in corners
  • Check curtains or blinds are clean, hanging straight, and working

Living Areas

  • Plump and arrange cushions and throws
  • Dust all surfaces, shelves, ornaments, and lampshades
  • Wipe TV screen, remote controls, and any tech (guests notice sticky remotes)
  • Clean any glass tables or mirrors
  • Vacuum all floors, rugs, and soft furnishings
  • Mop hard floors
  • If log burner: clean out firebox, reset with kindling and firelighters
  • Check books, games, and DVDs are tidy and complete

Utility and Entrance Areas

  • Sweep and mop entrance hall or boot room
  • Wipe front door, handle, and any glass panels
  • Clean shoe rack or mat area. Shake out or replace doormats
  • If utility room: wipe down surfaces, clean washing machine drum (run a hot empty cycle periodically), clear lint filter on dryer
  • Check coat hooks and storage areas are clear and clean

Outdoor Quick Check

  • Wipe down garden furniture and table
  • Sweep patio or decking (sand, leaves, debris)
  • Empty outdoor bins if applicable
  • Check BBQ is clean and ready (if included)
  • If hot tub: test water, check chemical balance, wipe surround and steps, check cover
  • Pick up any litter or debris from garden area

Coastal-Specific Checks

  • Wipe salt film from external-facing windows if visible
  • Check entrance area for sand tracking. Shake out mats or vacuum thoroughly
  • Check metal door handles and fixtures for salt corrosion. Wipe clean
  • Check for damp or musty smell, especially in ground-floor rooms and wardrobes. Run dehumidifier if needed
  • In humid weather: check bathroom ceilings and window corners for early mould spots

Safety and Presentation

  • Test smoke alarm (press test button)
  • Test carbon monoxide detector (press test button)
  • Check all keys are present and in the right place (or confirm smart lock is working)
  • Check welcome pack or information folder is complete and in place
  • Confirm Wi-Fi is working
  • Set heating to a comfortable arrival temperature
  • Do a final walkthrough. Photograph each room for your records
  • Lock up or reset key safe / smart lock for arriving guests

Section 3: Season Closure (Autumn/Winter Shut-Down)

For properties that close for winter or significantly reduce bookings. Do this after your last guest of the season.

Full Changeover Clean Plus Deep Clean

  • Complete the full regular changeover clean (Section 2) first
  • Deep clean oven, hob, and extractor hood (full degrease)
  • Deep clean fridge and freezer. Defrost freezer if needed
  • Run dishwasher on hottest empty cycle with cleaner
  • Run washing machine on hottest empty cycle with cleaner
  • Clean tumble dryer filter and vent
  • Deep clean all bathrooms: descale everything, treat grout, clean extractor fans
  • Clean inside all kitchen cupboards and drawers
  • Clean inside all wardrobes and bedroom drawers
  • Wash or dry clean all curtains, throws, and cushion covers
  • Clean all upholstery: sofas, armchairs, dining chairs
  • Vacuum mattresses. Apply mattress protectors if not already on
  • Clean all carpets or rugs (professional clean if needed)
  • Wash all windows inside and out

Damp Prevention (Critical for Coastal Properties)

  • Leave internal doors open to allow air circulation throughout the property
  • Set heating to maintain minimum 10 to 12 degrees throughout winter (prevents condensation and pipe freezing)
  • Position dehumidifiers in the worst-affected rooms. Set to run on a humidistat if possible
  • Open trickle vents on windows (if fitted)
  • Remove or raise soft furnishings from direct contact with external walls
  • Check window seals and re-seal any gaps (wind-driven rain and salt spray will find them)
  • Check and clear all gutters and downpipes
  • Ensure loft insulation is in good condition and no roof leaks are visible

Plumbing and Water

  • If property will be unoccupied and unheated below 10 degrees: drain down the water system to prevent burst pipes
  • If keeping water on: lag any exposed pipes in roof space, under floors, or in unheated areas
  • Turn off and drain any outdoor taps
  • If private water supply: arrange end-of-season water test if required

Heating and Power

  • Service boiler (annual service, ideally before winter)
  • If oil heating: check oil level and fill before winter if needed (delivery can be slow in rural areas)
  • If log burner: arrange chimney sweep. Clean out firebox completely
  • Set heating timer to maintain frost protection temperature
  • Consider leaving a light on a timer for security

Hot Tub (If Applicable)

  • Drain hot tub completely
  • Clean shell, jets, and waterline
  • Remove, clean, and store filters
  • Blow out pipework to remove standing water (prevents freeze damage)
  • Secure and cover. Check cover condition and replace if damaged

Outdoor and Exterior

  • Clean and store or cover garden furniture
  • Clean and store or cover BBQ
  • Clear all drains and gullies of leaves and debris
  • Check fences, gates, and paths for storm damage
  • Cut back any overhanging branches or vegetation before winter storms
  • Secure any loose items that could blow in high winds
  • Check exterior paintwork and window frames for salt damage. Note any areas needing spring repair
  • Jet wash or treat decking with anti-algae treatment before it gets slippery over winter

Safety and Compliance

  • Renew gas safety certificate if due before next season
  • Check EICR expiry date and schedule renewal if needed
  • Review Legionella risk assessment
  • Confirm insurance policies cover the property while unoccupied (some policies have empty property clauses)
  • Confirm STL licence is valid for next season. Note renewal date
  • Remove any perishable items from the property
  • Set up periodic property checks: ask a neighbour, cleaner, or property manager to visit fortnightly to check for leaks, damp, pest entry, or storm damage

Inventory and Planning

  • Do a full inventory check: crockery, cutlery, glassware, cookware, bedding, towels, electronics
  • Note anything that needs replacing before next season
  • Note any maintenance or repair jobs for the winter (it's cheaper to schedule them now)
  • Photograph the property in its closed-down state for insurance records
  • File all paperwork: gas certs, EICR, insurance, PAT reports, water test results