Spring is upon us once again and the anticipation of cottage season is palpable! With warmer weather just around the corner, it's time to dust off those summer plans and get your cottage ready for the season ahead. With the May 24 weekend next month (considered by many the unofficial start of summer), many Canadians are thinking about opening their second homes up north to ready them for the summer season. Whether you use your cottage year-round or whether you limit your access to the summer months, here's a comprehensive checklist to make sure your cottage is in top shape and ready for some serious relaxation.&nbsp;&nbsp;The past winter was a little less severe than normal, but still tough enough, especially up north. After experiencing any harsh winter conditions, your place may need some repairs. This could especially include the windows, doors, gutters, and roofs. Start by checking for damage such as cracks in your windows, but also to ensure no separation has taken place and that there is still functionality. Some things on the roof to look out for are damaged shingles and pooling water. A major risk with roofing during the winter involves leaking and water damage. When you are in your attic or upstairs rooms, check the ceilings to ensure there is no visible water damage. You also need to clean out your gutters to ensure continued functionality. This includes removing debris such as leaves, sticks, and clogged water, but also looking out for rodents or other intruders who may have built a nest there.&nbsp;You also need to check your plumbing. You must first turn on your water system, then you can turn on the hot water tank (if you have one). Investigate the pipes for any leakage or damage. Make sure you are turning your water on when you are confident that we won’t be experiencing freezing temperatures anymore. Some feel it is wise to wait until the end of April or the beginning of May to be safe. A lot of the care required for your pipes is preventative and should have occurred at the end of last summer, including draining and insulation. If a pipe has frozen and or burst despite your best efforts, call a plumber.&nbsp;It is unlikely that you will be ready for air conditioning until the end of May. If you plan to start a fire in your home, check the chimney for debris, just like you did with your gutters. Before putting on the A/C, when you finally do need it, remove any extra insulation you installed before last winter. Then, make sure you changed your air filters.&nbsp;When examining spaces in both the interior and exterior of your building, it is wise to look out for pests who may have used your cottage for shelter and warmth during the winter. It may be too late now, but before you close up again after the summer, look into traps and other preventative measures to keep them out. You should look in potential entry sites, such as any holes or cracks. Keep food in airtight containers to avoid a surprise there. Regularly cleaning &amp; maintaining your space will also help prevent future visitors. Keeping food lying around is a great way to attract guests – human or others. You also need to look out for nests and droppings that could have accumulated while you were away. This unfortunately includes your closet and piles of clothes you may have left around your cottage. Aside from what we see as an unpleasant mess, evidence of pests can also look like damage. This includes scratched screens to windows and doors, holes in the wall, holes in furniture, and more. Also, wires may have been chewed up. If you suspect any damage to your electrical system, no matter how it was caused, call an electrician before attempting to deal with it yourself. Obviously, if any evidence of critters has been found, make sure you are thoroughly disinfecting the spaces.&nbsp;Why tackle the task of opening up your cottage alone when you can turn it into a celebration? Invite friends and family for a cottage opening party, where you can share the workload and enjoy some well-deserved fun together. A case of beer and some BBQ food are small prices to pay for a quicker setup and guaranteed good times.&nbsp;With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to a seamless transition into cottage season. So sit back, relax, and soak up the joys of summer in your tranquil getaway.&nbsp;&nbsp;Enjoy!&nbsp;

Getting Ready for Cottage Season: A Checklist for a Hassle-Free Summer Escape

Looking to prepare your cottage for summer 2024? RIFO’s comprehensive checklist covers everything from repairs to pest control, ensuring a stress-free getaway.

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