Summer Home Care Guide for Tenants

Summer brings long days, warmer weather and a welcome chance to unwind — but it also introduces a range of seasonal issues that can impact rental properties if they’re not managed early. From increased fire risk to air-conditioning strain, pests, water usage and the rush of holiday travel, this time of year can place homes under added pressure. A little awareness now can prevent unnecessary maintenance requests, protect your belongings and ensure you return to a clean, safe and comfortable home.

This guide outlines the key areas tenants should pay attention to throughout summer, whether you’re staying home or heading away.

Fire Safety: Staying Aware in Hotter Conditions

Australia’s summers are known for their heat, and with that comes heightened fire risk — especially in bushfire-prone areas. While many safety measures are already in place, tenants still play an important part in keeping the home safe. Outdoor areas should be kept clear of dry leaves, branches and clutter that could act as fuel in the event of a fire. Smoke alarms need to remain unobstructed and free from dust or cobwebs so they can function correctly. It’s also worth being mindful of candles or incense during hot weather, ensuring they are never left burning unattended. Understanding local fire danger ratings and nearby evacuation routes can also help you respond quickly if conditions change.

Preparing the Home Before You Travel

For many people, summer includes a much-needed getaway. Before heading off, taking a few minutes to secure the property can save a lot of stress upon your return. Ensuring all windows and doors are firmly locked is essential, particularly in areas that are less visible from the street. Mail and bins are another indicator of an unoccupied home; having a neighbour collect your mail or using Australia Post’s hold service can help, and placing wheelie bins neatly after collection avoids giving the impression the property is empty.

Inside, switching off appliances that won’t be used while you’re away helps reduce both fire risk and unnecessary electricity consumption. Clearing rubbish, wiping benches and checking the fridge ensures you don’t return to smells, pests or spoiled food. Small actions like setting up a timer light, if you have one, can also make the property appear occupied and help deter unwanted attention.

Keeping Air Conditioning Running Efficiently

Air conditioners work at their hardest during summer, and the majority of performance issues stem from dirty filters. When filters become dusty or clogged, the unit has to work significantly harder, which can lead to poor airflow, reduced cooling and higher energy bills. Rinsing or cleaning filters every few weeks keeps the air moving freely and improves the system’s efficiency.

For best performance, it’s important to run the air conditioner with all windows and doors closed, preventing the cool air from escaping. Setting the temperature between 24 and 26 degrees ensures the unit cools comfortably without overworking, and keeping furniture or curtains away from vents helps air circulate properly throughout the home.

Managing Pests and Rubbish in Warm Weather

Summer is peak season for ants, flies, rodents and other pests that are attracted to food, humidity and warmth. Before leaving the property for extended periods, it’s a good idea to remove all rubbish, wipe down surfaces and avoid leaving food scraps or dishes in the sink. If you plan on turning the fridge off, ensure it is cleaned out fully — even unopened items can spoil or create mould if left in a warm space. Keeping pantry staples in sealed containers can also help prevent insects from getting into dry goods.

Good habits make a noticeable difference, particularly during heatwaves when pests are more active and food spoils faster. A tidy kitchen and regular rubbish removal go a long way in keeping unwanted visitors at bay.

Being Conscious of Water Use

With higher temperatures comes increased water consumption, both indoors and outdoors. Shorter showers, mindful use of washing machines and dishwashers, and watering gardens during the early morning or late evening all help reduce unnecessary water usage. If you notice any leaking taps, dripping showerheads or running toilets, reporting them promptly can prevent significant wastage over the course of the season.

A Smooth, Safe and Stress-Free Summer

The goal of summer home care isn’t to add more tasks to your to-do list; it’s to help you avoid preventable issues so you can spend more time enjoying the season. A little preparation — from checking fire safety and maintaining the air conditioner, to managing rubbish, preventing pests and securing the property before you travel — helps protect the home and ensures a more relaxed summer for everyone.