Why Coastal Vacation Home Owners Often Pay a Standby Fee During Off-Season or Unoccupied Months – A Practical Guide for Retirees and Investors
Coastal vacation homes are dream investments—especially for future retirees—but they can’t be left completely unattended.
From the Mississippi Gulf Coast to Florida, California, and the Outer Banks, harsh weather, pests, vandalism, and year-round regulations create ongoing risks. Many owners pay a modest standby fee (often $50–$200/month, charged only in no-rental-income months) to ensure a local property manager stays on call for emergencies, compliance, and insurance protection.Insurance policies frequently limit coverage after 30–60 unoccupied days (per III and IRMI standards), and cities/HOAs require a 24/7 local contact—making professional oversight a smart safeguard.Real example: A rare Gulf Coast freeze burst faucets on an Ocean Springs vacation home. The manager arrived in 15 minutes, stopped the flood, and saved hundreds in water bills—for just a $50 standby fee that month.
