Running a holiday let or hospitality business in North Wales means navigating seasonal changes — and winter brings its own unique challenges. From frost-covered driveways to unexpected boiler breakdowns, winter maintenance is essential not just for guest safety, but also to protect your property and reputation.
But how do you prepare for winter maintenance without losing bookings or disappointing guests?
Here’s a practical guide for owners and managers to stay ahead of winter — while keeping occupancy high and reviews glowing.
1. Plan Winter Maintenance Early (Before the Frost Hits)
The key to avoiding cancellations or downtime is forward planning. Schedule essential maintenance before peak winter hits — ideally in late autumn (September to early November). This includes:
- Boiler servicing (essential for heating and hot water)
- Gutter clearing to prevent ice dams or flooding
- Chimney inspections if you have log burners or open fires
- Roof and tile checks for any damage or leaks
By addressing these proactively, you’re less likely to face emergencies that could lead to cancelled bookings.
2. Stagger Maintenance Around Bookings
Use your calendar wisely. Look for natural gaps between bookings to schedule more disruptive tasks like:
- Drainage or plumbing work
- Driveway repairs
- Tree trimming or landscaping
- Deep cleaning or redecorating
If you use a booking platform or channel manager, block short windows strategically so contractors can work safely — without affecting income.
Tip: Midweek slots are often easier to block off than weekends and less likely to cause lost revenue.
3. Have Emergency Contractors on Speed Dial
Snow, storms, or freezing pipes can strike at any time. Build relationships with reliable local tradespeople in North Wales who offer emergency call-outs, such as:
- Heating engineers
- Plumbers
- Electricians
- Locksmiths
Include their numbers in your digital guest manual or have your property manager trained on quick escalation. Fast action can mean the difference between a bad review and a loyal repeat guest.
4. Winter-Proof Your Property for Guest Comfort
Make your property as winter-friendly as possible to prevent issues and add guest appeal:
- Use frost protection settings on heating systems
- Leave salt/grit bins for icy paths or driveways
- Install smart thermostats or timed heating controls
- Provide extra blankets, throws, or hot water bottles
- Add indoor drying racks for wet clothes
These small touches reduce wear and tear and show guests you’ve thought of everything — even in winter.
5. Be Transparent in Your Guest Communication
If you’re carrying out unavoidable work during their stay, be upfront. Most guests are understanding — especially if you:
- Inform them in advance
- Offer a goodwill gesture (like a bottle of wine or a small discount)
- Keep disruptions minimal (e.g. schedule work between 10 am – 2 pm)
Honesty builds trust, and guests will appreciate your commitment to maintaining high standards.
6. Use Winter as an Opportunity for Unique Marketing
Rather than fearing lower occupancy in winter, lean into it. North Wales is stunning in the colder months, with snow-covered peaks, roaring fires, and coastal walks without the crowds.
Promote winter packages like:
- “Cosy Coastal Getaways”
- “Snowdonia Winter Retreats”
- “Festive Weekend Breaks”
Highlight winter features: log fires, underfloor heating, hot tubs, or proximity to Christmas markets and seasonal events.
7. Protect Your Business with a Winter Checklist
Create a seasonal checklist to ensure nothing gets missed. It might include:
- Test smoke and CO alarms
- Drain outdoor taps and hoses
- Service heating and water systems
- Check insulation around pipes
- Restock winter supplies (grit, blankets, batteries)
You can even automate this checklist with a property management system (PMS) to keep things efficient across multiple lets.
Final Thoughts
Winter in North Wales doesn’t have to mean lost bookings or frantic repairs. With the right planning, communication, and a proactive approach to maintenance, you can keep guests safe and satisfied — while protecting your income and your property.