Home Exchange and House Swap Preparation Checklist

This preparation checklist is for hosts preparing for a home exchange or house swap and is best read in conjunction with the article “How to Prepare for a Home Exchange or House Swap”.

1. Get Your Home Ready

☐ Clean and declutter key areas (bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen and living)

☐ Clean fridge shelving and drawers

☐ Remove personal or sensitive items

☐ Secure valuables and private documents

☐ Fix any maintenance issues (lights, taps, appliances)

☐ Create a neutral, guest-friendly environment

2. Create a House Guide

☐ Wi-Fi login details and TV/streaming instructions

☐ Instructions for appliances and heating/cooling systems

☐ Garbage and recycling days and rules

☐ Emergency contacts (you, neighbor, local trades)

☐ House rules and quirks (what to know, what to avoid)

☐ Local recommendations (shops, cafes, attractions)

3. Outdoor & Garden Prep

☐ Mow lawns and weed gardens

☐ Trim Hedges and shrubs

☐ Sweep paths, patios and balconies

☐ Tidy up outdoor furniture

☐ Clean pool and check water chemicals are correct

☐ Leave watering instructions for plants or garden

☐ Secure outdoor tools and equipment

4. Home Safety

☐ Make sure your home is safe (smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, trip hazards)

☐ Emergency exit plans are visible if required.

☐ Ensure torches, flashlights, stairwell lighting is working.

☐ Clear any trip hazards

5. Access

☐ Organise how you are going to handover keys and allow access to your home (lockbox, neighbour, digital code etc)

☐ Provide back up plan in case of access issues (very important)

☐ Block access to areas of danger or you don’t want your guests to go.

6. Make Space for Guests

☐ Wardrobe space and drawer space cleared

☐ Empty bathroom cabinet or shelf

☐ Cleared fridge and freezer space.

☐ Provide plenty of coathangers

7. Stock the Essentials

☐ Provide basic pantry items (tea, coffee, sugar, oil, etc.)

☐ Leave toilet paper, cleaning products, and bin liners

☐ Set out clean towels, linens, and spare bedding

☐ Optional: Include a welcome basket or note

8. Prepare Beds and Linen

☐ Beds made with freshly laundered sheets

☐ Clean towels for each guest (leave on beds for hotel style presentation)

☐ Spare bedding and blankets

☐ Leave instructions for using your washing machine

9. Insurances

☐ Check your home and contents insurance is suitable for a homestay.

☐ If allowing usage of vehicles or marine craft check your insurance is adequate for the situation.

10. Set the Scene for Arrival – Final Touches

☐ Add fresh flowers or calming scents

☐ Present beds hotel-style with fresh linen

☐ Tidy entryway for a great first impression

☐ Confirm arrival/departure times with your guest

☐ Send final reminders or updates before the exchange or swap

☐ Share your contact details and backup contact