Owning a beach house (or bach) is a classic Kiwi dream, but coastal living brings its own set of maintenance challenges. Whether your place has been sitting empty during winter or is gearing up for the holiday rental season, now is the ideal time to give it a thorough check.

1. Start With a General Walk-Through

Open the doors and windows to air out the house. Look for signs of damp, mould, pests, or unusual smells. Coastal humidity and long vacancies often allow mildew and critters to settle in unnoticed.

Check:

• Walls and ceilings for discolouration
• Window frames for swelling or salt corrosion
• Skirting boards for insect activity
• Musty areas that might indicate a leak

2. Roof and Gutter Inspection

Salt air accelerates wear on roofing materials, and strong coastal winds fill gutters quickly.

Look for:

• Lifting tiles or sheets
• Surface rust
• Cracked pointing
• Blocked gutters or downpipes

If your property is on tank water, flush gutters well before reconnecting to avoid contamination.

3. Check Outdoor Areas

Decks, stairs, railings, and exterior paintwork all take a beating over winter.

Tasks include:

• Tightening loose handrails
• Water-blasting slippery decks or paths
• Checking deck boards for rot
• Repainting or staining high-exposure areas

4. Service Appliances and Utilities

Holiday turnover is hard on appliances. Inspect:

• Heat pumps or air conditioners
• Ovens, hobs, and BBQs
• Washing machine hoses
• Hot water cylinders (look for signs of leaking or rust)

If your bach uses a septic tank, ensure it has been serviced within the recommended cycle.

5. Prepare for Summer Pests

Ants, cockroaches, and rodents love holiday homes – especially if left unoccupied.

Do a pre-summer flush-out by:

• Cleaning cupboards thoroughly
• Sealing gaps under doors
• Inspecting ceilings for wasp nests
• Storing all pantry items in airtight containers

6. Get Guest-Ready (if renting)

For short-term holiday lets (Bookabach, Airbnb, family and friends):

• Check kitchen utensils (stocktake, damage, replace)
• Check bedding and linen for damp or stains
• Stock essential cleaning supplies
• Update your house manual with emergency contacts, WiFi details, and local rules

7. Exterior Grounds and Water Systems

Trim branches away from the house, check irrigation timers, and clear paths. For tank systems, inspect your filter and ensure the pumps are in good working order.

Common Questions

1. How often should I clean the gutters on a coastal home?
   At least twice a year, and more frequently if the house sits under trees or uses tank water.
2. What causes mould in beach houses?
   Humidity, lack of airflow, and low winter temperatures create perfect conditions for mildew. Ventilation is the key defence.
3. Should I water-blast my deck every summer?
   Yes, but use a moderate pressure to avoid damaging timber fibres.
4. How can I prepare my bach for Airbnb guests?
   Focus on safety, cleanliness, and clear instructions. A good house manual reduces call-outs and guest confusion.
5. Who can help with summer property maintenance?
   Local services like Jim’s can assist with roof repairs, gutter cleaning, outdoor washing, pest control, and general handyman work.