A Checklist for Opening the Cottage for the Season

May 14th, 2014  |  Home Insurance

It’s finally time to open up the cottage! While this is a sure sign that summer is on the way, it also means that you have a lot of work ahead to get the cottage ready, especially if you plan on renting out the cottage during the summer months.

Perhaps the best way to approach opening the cottage is to create a checklist of things that you will need to do when you arrive.

Before you leave for the Cottage

Your work for opening the cottage starts well before you leave home. Here are some tips to take into account before you leave for the cottage:

• Make sure you have all the tools you need to open the cottage
• Pack cleaning supplies
• Call the hydro company (if necessary)
• Do you have all the contact numbers for people or contractors you may need to call?
• Make sure your insurance is up to date. If not, call your insurance broker
• Make sure you have keys for the cottage – could you imagine making the trip and being unable to get into you cottage?
• Round up some friends to help!

Opening the exterior of the Cottage

Once you arrive at the cottage, it’s time to start your inspection. Here are some tips for inspecting the exterior of the cottage:

• Check any potential issues that you identified when you were closing the cottage at the end of last season
• Check all power lines and phone lines
• Look for any signs of break ins or vandalism
• Do a walk around and check the entire exterior of the cottage – roof, siding, windows, doors, deck, patio, and doors
• Look for signs of pests
• Make a list of landscaping work that needs to be completed

Opening the Interior of the Cottage

Now that the outside of the cottage is taken care of, it’s time to focus on the interior:

• Check any potential issues that you identified with the interior when you were closing the cottage at the end of last season
• Look for water leaks
• Plug in all appliances and make sure they are working correctly
• Inspect for pests, especially mice
• Start the water system – Considering having it inspected by a professional first
• Make a list of supplies that you will need for the season (candles, batteries, first aid kit, etc.)
• Make a list of things that need some TLC or require repairs

Make sure that you give yourself enough time to open the cottage. Bring a few friends or family members with you to help you get things ready on opening weekend. Have you opened your cottage already? What weekend are you planning on opening the cottage this year?