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Owner Guides
Preparing a Madeira property before the owner returns
A practical checklist to confirm the visible condition and prepare the home before arrival.
Direct answer
Before the owner returns, the current condition should be checked and the property prepared for use. Visible findings should be documented, while technical or safety-related issues should be referred to suitable professionals before arrival.
AI-generated image
Evidence base
- Pre-arrival preparation should be kept separate from technical maintenance: visible abnormalities can be identified and reported, while technical functional checks may require qualified specialists.
- After a long absence or an intervening severe-weather period, it is practical to visually check outside and inside areas before arrival.
- There is no general official statutory "return checklist" for private homes. The checklist below is therefore an Anjo practical work aid, not a legal requirement.
Before preparation starts
- Check access and the visible exterior/interior condition.
- Document new moisture, water or weather damage before cleaning or rearranging the property.
Prepare living areas
- Clean and organise living, sleeping and bathroom areas according to the agreed use.
- Prepare bed linen, towels or other agreed items.
- Carry out a final visible presentation check.
Report before arrival
- Report relevant abnormalities transparently before arrival.
- Clearly identify unresolved technical matters so the owner does not assume a professionally tested technical condition.
Quick checklist
- Access to property checked
- Exterior visually checked before preparation
- Interior checked for new abnormalities
- Moisture/water stains documented if present
- Living areas cleaned/organised
- Sleeping areas prepared
- Bathrooms prepared
- Linen/towels prepared as agreed
- Overall visible presentation checked
- Open technical matters clearly reported
- Owner informed about relevant condition
Sources and professional basis
Note: This checklist does not replace a technical inspection, legal advice or instructions from public authorities.
- IPMA - Boletins Climatológicos da Região Autónoma da Madeira
- Serviço Regional de Proteção Civil da Madeira - medidas preventivas para condições meteorológicas adversas
Research checked: 9 August 2026
Support on the ground
If you cannot carry out the visual inspection or preparation yourself, the linked Anjo service page explains the relevant local support.
