Preparing Your Rental Home for the Holidays: A Renter’s Guide

The holiday season is here, bringing festive décor, family gatherings, and cozy nights indoors. But before you break out the lights and start planning celebrations, it’s important to prepare your rental home properly. A little seasonal prep goes a long way in keeping your home safe, comfortable, and compliant with your lease—so you can enjoy the holidays stress-free.

At Advantage Management, we want renters to feel at home while also protecting their property and deposit. Here’s your complete guide to getting your rental holiday-ready.

🎄 1. Decorate Safely (and Lease-Friendly)

Holiday decorating is one of the best parts of the season—but renters need to keep both safety and lease rules in mind.

Safe & Renter-Friendly Decorating Tips

• Use removable hooks instead of nails to hang lights, stockings, or garlands.

• Avoid damaging adhesives—go for Command strips or temporary décor.

• Choose LED lights that stay cool and reduce fire risk.

• Avoid real candles unless your lease allows them; opt for flameless candles instead.

• Don’t overload outlets—use surge protectors and avoid daisy-chaining extension cords.

Outdoor Decorations

If your rental includes a porch, patio, or yard, check your lease before hanging outdoor lights or displays. Some rentals limit exterior décor for safety and maintenance reasons.

🥶 2. Prepare for Colder Weather

Utah winters can bring freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and icy conditions. Preparing your rental early helps prevent damage and keeps utility bills manageable.

Winter Maintenance Tips for Renters

• Keep your thermostat above 65°F to prevent frozen pipes.

• Let faucets drip on extremely cold nights to relieve pressure in pipes.

• Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers (ask your landlord if needed).

• Replace furnace filters if responsibility falls to the tenant—it improves heat flow and efficiency.

• Weatherstrip windows using removable seals to keep heat in and drafts out.

If your home feels unusually cold or drafty, contact your property manager—there may be insulation or heating issues.

🍽️ 3. Hosting Guests Without Violating Your Lease

Holiday gatherings are fun—but they can also lead to noise complaints or parking issues if you’re not careful.

Hosting Tips for Renters

• Review occupancy rules in your lease before planning overnight guests.

• Ask visitors to park in approved areas and avoid blocking neighbors’ driveways.

• Keep noise reasonable, especially after quiet hours.

• Protect furniture and floors with coasters, mats, and felt pads.

• Take photos before decorating or rearranging furniture so you can put everything back exactly as it was.

A little planning keeps everyone happy—including your neighbors and your landlord.

🔥 4. Practice Holiday Cooking & Fire Safety

Holiday meals bring joy—but they also bring the risk of kitchen accidents.

Safety Essentials

• Never leave the stove or oven unattended.

• Keep flammable décor (like towels or garlands) away from heating sources.

• Clean your oven and burners before big cooking days.

• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.

• Avoid using deep fryers indoors or on balconies.

Following these precautions helps prevent avoidable fires or smoke damage.

🧹 5. Keep the Property Clean & Protected

Winter weather and holiday activities can take a toll on your rental home.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Space

• Use entry mats to prevent salt and snow from damaging floors.

• Ask guests to remove their shoes when entering.

• Empty garbage promptly to avoid holiday food odors.

• Keep pets secured during gatherings (if your rental allows pets).

Small steps today can save you money at move-out.

🎁 Final Thoughts

Preparing your rental home for the holidays doesn't have to be complicated. With a mix of safety, lease awareness, and a little planning, you can enjoy the season to its fullest—without risking your deposit or the property’s condition.

At Advantage Management, we’re here to support renters with helpful tips, responsive service, and a focus on maintaining comfortable, well-managed homes.

Have a maintenance need or question as you prepare for the holidays? Reach out to the Advantage Management team—we’re happy to help make your season bright and stress-free.