Top 5 Maintenance Issues That Can Ruin a Guest's Stay (and How to Prevent Them)
Nothing ruins a 5-star review faster than a broken appliance, cold shower, or squeaky door that wakes a sleeping baby. As short-term rental hosts in high-demand areas like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, staying on top of maintenance isn’t just smart — it’s essential. At Cabinology, we’ve seen the issues that trip up even the best hosts. Here are the top 5 STR maintenance problems — and what to do about them before your next guest walks through the door.
1. HVAC Problems (Too Hot, Too Cold = Bad Reviews)
When guests walk into a cabin that’s freezing in winter or sweltering in July, they’re instantly uncomfortable. HVAC issues are one of the most common reasons guests complain or ask for refunds.
What to Do:
Schedule seasonal HVAC checks (especially before peak summer and winter)
Replace filters monthly
Keep a small space heater or fan as a backup
Use a smart thermostat to monitor settings remotely
2. Leaks, Drips, and Plumbing Surprises
A dripping faucet might not seem urgent — until guests hear it all night or wake up to a soaked cabinet. Even small plumbing issues can lead to big headaches and expensive repairs.
What to Do:
Check under sinks during every turnover
Run all faucets and flush toilets between guests
Use moisture sensors in high-risk areas
Call for repairs at the first sign of a leak — don’t wait
3. Hot Tub Malfunctions
Hot tubs are a major selling point for Smoky Mountain rentals — and also one of the most common sources of guest complaints. Cloudy water, broken jets, or temperature issues can tank your ratings.
What to Do:
Keep a regular hot tub cleaning and chemical balance schedule
Inspect for leaks, cracks, or cover damage
Post clear, simple instructions for guests
Use a local service (like us!) for routine care and emergency fixes
4. Appliance Breakdowns
A broken fridge, oven, or washer/dryer can completely derail a guest’s stay — especially for longer bookings or families.
What to Do:
Test all appliances during turnovers
Keep manuals on site or saved digitally
Replace older units before they become a liability
Offer quick-response repairs with a reliable local team
5. Loose Railings, Stairs, or Deck Boards
Safety hazards don’t just lead to bad reviews — they can lead to injuries. Outdoor decks and stairs get worn quickly in Sevier County’s weather.
What to Do:
Regularly inspect all outdoor walkways and decks
Tighten or replace loose railings and steps
Re-stain or seal decks to prevent water damage
Add lighting for nighttime safety
Let Cabinology Handle It
We get it — as a host or property manager, you don’t always have time to check every faucet or fix loose steps. That’s where we come in. Cabinology offers dependable, fast, and local maintenance for Airbnb, Vrbo, and short-term rental properties across Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville.
Need a maintenance partner you can trust?
Request a free quote or contact us today to keep your rental safe, smooth, and 5-star ready — every time.
