If your bookings have taken a nosedive and you’ve explored other reasons why then dated decor or shabby conditions may well be the issue.
And with reviews being such an important part of the booking process these days, you can’t afford to have your customers telling the world your hotel needs some TLC.
Keeping an eye out for signs of wear and tear and dealing with cosmetic issues as they arise can save you time and money in the long term.
When the warning signs start to show, refreshing parts of your hotel can keep it looking high quality and attractive for your customers, and can save the need for a much bigger overhaul.
Here at SD teams, we work with hotels on everything from tiling lobbies to repairing fittings and furniture. Here’s our advice on what to keep an eye out for when it comes to hotel upkeep:
1 The bathroom shows signs of mould
A sign of damp which usually inhabits bathrooms, mould is a big turn off for guests and can potentially cause health issues for them. Increasing ventilation or replacing the sealants around bathroom fixtures and fittings can help reduce mould.
2 The rooms have a musty smell or watermarks
You may have a further issue with damp that needs investigating. Peeling paint can also be a sign of this so undertake regular inspections to keep on top of any problems.
3 The walls are dirty, or paint has chipped off the woodwork
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a tired looking room without costing the GDP of a small island, so maintaining the paintwork is a must.
4 There are cracks on the walls or ceilings
You’d expect a few hairline cracks in a building, they are easily dealt with by a mastic applicator, but large cracks may be an indication of a bigger problem. Check around windows and in corners to see the scale of the problem.
5 The windows and doors are in poor condition
There could be gaps around the doors, or they may stick and not open properly. Windows could be cracked, or if they are double glazed, condensation may indicate the glass needs to be replaced.
6 There are issues with electrical fittings
Blown bulbs, exposed wiring or broken electrical sockets are not only unsightly, they can also be dangerous. Protect your guests and staff by getting your electric fittings inspected periodically.
7 The carpets or flooring are worn or broken
Nothing says neglect like a stained or threadbare carpet. Chipped floor tiles or loose floorboards are equally as undesirable and can be trip hazards. Replace tiles and carpets showing signs of wear and re-lay floorboards to reduce the chance of accidents.
8 The stairs are slippery or have no handrails
Stairs are likely to be a high-traffic area and so need to be maintained to ensure they are safe. Make sure carpet is in excellent condition and consider laying anti-slip stair tread cover or risers to bare wood steps. Install handrails to reduce the chance of falls.
9 The tiles around the swimming pool are dirty or broken
A swimming pool and spa area can be the pride and joy of a good hotel. It’s essential to keep wet and dry areas clean and safe by replacing broken tiles and resealing the pool.
10 The plumbing has seen better days
If the water pressure is low and the toilets don’t flush well, or the shower is a dribble of its former self, it’s probably time revisit the plumbing and bathroom fittings.
Planning property maintenance for the low season will have less of an impact on finances as the hotel won’t lose money if you have to close rooms to complete the work.
Get in touch with us here for advice and help on cosmetic repair, sealant application or floor and wall tiling for your hotel.