Do Renters Ruin Big Bear Cabins?
The short answer: No.
In our experience with Big Bear cabins, we haven’t had any property maliciously damaged by renters or groups of renters. Yes, we’ve encountered some wear and tear, and the occasional damage that makes us wonder, “What were they thinking?” But overall, new homeowners’ fears are often far worse than the reality.
Common Issues with Big Bear Cabins
It’s true that renters might leave a property dirtier than you’d like, but that’s why cleaning fees are standard. Tip for new Big Bear Lake vacation homeowners: Don’t visit your Big Bear cabin before the management company has had a chance to clean—it might be a bit discouraging otherwise.
The worst incident we’ve dealt with involved a child throwing a toy at his sibling and accidentally hitting a flat-screen TV instead. The parents called us immediately and covered the cost for a replacement. In fact, the homeowner ended up with a better TV model than the original!
Who Rents Big Bear Cabins?
The vast majority—99%—are responsible families and friends just looking for a getaway in Big Bear cabins. Problems usually arise when uninvited friends of guests tag along. While normal wear and tear is expected, major damage is extremely rare.
What to Expect in Big Bear Cabin Rentals
Some common issues with Big Bear cabins include:
- Dirty homes after guests leave
- Carpet smudges and black marks at waist height on walls from bags
- Trim chips near doorways from wheeled luggage
- Loose kitchen chairs and cabinet doors
- Bathroom fixtures like toilet paper holders and towel racks coming loose, especially if not anchored into studs
- Window coverings—blinds are notorious for getting tangled
- Furniture wear and tear, especially on futons, pull-out couches, and recliners
- Missing DVDs or VCR tapes that can’t easily be inventoried
Outdoor Maintenance Tips for Big Bear Cabins
Outdoor furniture and grills are vulnerable to wear, especially in winter. Glass tables in Big Bear cabins can crack due to rapid temperature changes from cold nights to sunny days. Grills that aren’t bolted down can damage nearby windows, siding, or railings when moved. Secure your grill to avoid accidents.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave irreplaceable personal items in your Big Bear cabin.
Usage Considerations for Big Bear Cabins
Big Bear cabins face different conditions than second homes. A property used just a few times a year might see 720 people in 15 years. Compare that to 960 guests in a single year if you rent it out frequently. More guests mean more use, so expect extra wear on cabinets, drawers, furniture, and fixtures.
Plumbing Precautions in Big Bear Cabins
Big Bear’s cold winters can cause pipes to freeze—even in heated homes. Older properties, in particular, are at risk if pipes aren’t insulated. We’ve seen tenants go to bed with running water, only to wake up to frozen pipes. Ensure your pipes are well-insulated to avoid these issues in your Big Bear cabin.
Managing Expectations for Big Bear Cabin Rentals
Our goal isn’t to scare you, but to provide a realistic picture of what renting a Big Bear cabin involves. Managing expectations is key to enjoying the vacation rental business!