This checklist is educational and does not replace legal, tax, insurance, municipal, strata, or platform advice. Verify current requirements with official sources before operating.
Property Fit
- I know which space I want to host.
- I have confirmed whether my province, territory, and local municipality allow this type of short-term rental.
- I have checked strata, lease, mortgage, insurance, or financing restrictions.
- I have considered noise, parking, privacy, entry access, and guest impact on neighbours.
- I know who the likely guest is and why they would choose this stay.
Compliance And Permissions
- I have reviewed current provincial or territorial short-term rental requirements.
- I have checked whether provincial, territorial, or municipal registration applies.
- I have reviewed municipal business licence requirements.
- I know whether my municipality requires proof of principal residence.
- I have reviewed insurance and tax questions with qualified professionals where needed.
Guest-Ready Setup
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are installed where required.
- The guest entrance is safe, clear, and easy to find at night.
- The bed, towels, linens, kitchen, bathroom, storage, and lighting match the listing promise.
- House rules, Wi-Fi details, and emergency information are easy to find.
- The space is staged before photography.
Pricing And Calendar
- I have reviewed comparable listings in my area.
- I have selected an opening price strategy.
- I have set minimum stay rules, check-in times, and preparation buffers.
- I know the lowest price I am willing to accept.
- I have identified seasonal or high-demand dates.
Cleaning And Communication
- I have a detailed turnover checklist.
- I have a restocking checklist and enough spare linens.
- I have booking, pre-arrival, check-in, check-out, and review messages drafted.
- I have a backup plan for urgent issues.
- I know who responds when I am unavailable.