End-of-Summer Maintenance: Detailed Checklist for a Safe Seasonal Transition

As summer winds down, it’s essential for hotel maintenance teams to conduct a thorough inspection of property systems and equipment to ensure everything is functioning efficiently and safely ahead of the fall season. High temperatures, increased occupancy, and frequent use during the summer months can place additional stress on building infrastructure. Proactive maintenance now can prevent breakdowns, safety issues, and unnecessary costs later.

Key Maintenance Areas to Review:

1. HVAC Systems:

• Clean or replace air filters in guest rooms and public areas.

• Check for refrigerant leaks, clogged drain lines, or corrosion.

• Test thermostats for accuracy and recalibrate if necessary.

• Inspect fan motors and belts for wear and tear.

2. Exterior Lighting and Signage:

• Replace any burned-out bulbs on pathways, entrances, and parking areas.

• Test light sensors and timers to ensure proper dusk-to-dawn functionality.

• Clean lenses and remove obstructions that may dim illumination.

3. Doors and Weather Seals:

• Inspect weather stripping on guest room and exterior doors for damage or gaps.

• Replace worn seals to prevent drafts and energy loss.

• Check door closers and hinges to ensure smooth operation

4. Sidewalks, Stairs, and Handrails:

• Look for cracks, shifting, or uneven surfaces that could pose trip hazards.

• Tighten or replace loose handrails.

• Pressure wash surfaces to remove dirt, mildew, and slippery buildup.

  
  

5. Laundry and Mechanical Rooms:

• Clean dryer vents to prevent lint buildup and reduce fire risk.

• Check water heaters for sediment buildup or corrosion.

• Inspect utility connections, valves, and emergency shutoffs.

  
  

6. Pest Prevention:

• Seal cracks around the foundation, doors, and windows.

• Inspect garbage areas and ensure containers are tightly sealed.

• Schedule routine pest control if not already in place.

Documentation:

All inspections, repairs, and service needs should be documented. Consistent documentation ensures that work orders are tracked and completed in a timely manner, while also supporting compliance and audit-readiness.Maintaining high standards year-round requires attention to seasonal transitions. By taking the time to complete these detailed checks, your property will remain safe, efficient, and guest-ready as we move into the fall season.Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence and safety across all properties.

Protecting Guest Privacy in Hospitality

Protecting our guests’ privacy is not only a standard of service—it’s a reflection of the respect and trust we want every guest to feel the moment they walk through our doors. Whether guests are traveling for business, vacation, or personal matters, they deserve discretion and care throughout their stay.

Here are some keyways to uphold guest privacy at all times:

• Avoid Public Conversations: Never discuss a guest’s room number, reservation, or travel details where others can overhear.

• Use Discretion When Confirming Information: If a guest forgets their room number or needs a key replacement, confirm their identity discreetly and never say the room number aloud.

• Respect the Mail and Key Policy: Only release keys, packages, or mail to the registered guest or an authorized person on the reservation after verification.

• Protect Guest Movement: Never share a guest’s location with others or allow anyone to follow a guest to their room without permission or necessity.

• Secure Personal Information: Be cautious with written or digital guest records—keep screens and documents protected from public view.

• Lead by Example: Demonstrate professional discretion at all times, especially in shared spaces like the lobby, elevator, and hallways.

Maintaining guest privacy is not about secrecy—it’s about providing a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment where every traveler feels at ease. Every action we take, no matter how small, contributes to a larger culture of trust.

Honoring Women in Hospitality: A Tribute for Women’s Equality Day

August 26 marked Women’s Equality Day, commemorating the certification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted American women the right to vote. It’s more than a historical milestone—it’s a celebration of courage, leadership, and progress.

In hospitality, women have long played a vital role—not just behind the front desk or in housekeeping, but in leadership, innovation, and mentorship. From keeping operations running smoothly to inspiring the next generation, the women on our teams shape the guest experience and workplace culture every day.

Let’s take a moment this month to recognize and celebrate the incredible women who make our hotels feel like home.

Women’s Equality Day reminds us that every voice matters. Let’s continue to uplift, support, and celebrate the women who lead with strength and heart—today and every day.