Know the standard before you open the door

Sample site for the fictional Alder House hotel. Each room type has an approved standard with reference photos that show how a finished, guest-free room should look: bed, linen, soft furnishings and lighting. Check the standard for your assigned room type, then compare the room in front of you with it. If something differs, report it. Do not improvise a fix.

A made hotel bed with white pillows and a neutral headboard

What the standard checks, area by area

Use these as a quick scan. The approved standard for your room type has the full photos and layout.

Bed and linen

Linen sits smooth and square, with the pillow arrangement matching the reference photo for the room type.
  • Corners and edges match the photo
  • Pillow count and position match the photo

Cushions and soft furnishings

Every cushion and throw listed for the room type is present and placed as shown.
  • Count cushions against the standard
  • A missing item goes in your status note

Lighting and small equipment

Bedside lights, lamps and switches are in place and respond when switched on.
  • Switch each light on and off once
  • Report a light that does not work. Do not attempt a repair

Overall presentation

Stand at the doorway and look at the room as a whole. Furniture, curtains and decor should match the reference photo.
  • Check the view from the door
  • Note anything out of place

Who owns the standard, and what to do when it looks wrong

The Executive Housekeeper owns the approved room standards. Room standard cards and reference photos are kept in the approved standards library for the property. Supervisors help attendants interpret them on the floor.

When the room and the standard disagree

  • Compare the room with the standard for its room type, not with a neighboring room.
  • Do not move items from another room to make up a shortfall.
  • Tell your supervisor which item differs and where it is in the room.
  • Ask before assuming. A question to a colleague or supervisor is part of the job.

When the standard itself changes

Standards are updated when a room type is refurbished or when the Executive Housekeeper issues a revised card. Your supervisor will brief the team before the new standard applies.