Temporary staff housing plays a pivotal role in today’s mobile workforce. Whether you’re an employer looking to accommodate new hires, interns, or project-based teams, or an employee navigating a relocation or short-term assignment, understanding the ins and outs of temporary accommodation is crucial.
Housd have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions on Google about temporary staff housing to give you a comprehensive guide. Let’s dive in!
What Exactly Is Temporary Staff Housing?
1. What is temporary staff housing / corporate housing / serviced apartments?
These terms are often used interchangeably, referring to fully furnished accommodation available for short to medium-term stays, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months. The key difference from a standard hotel is the inclusion of full kitchen facilities and often more spacious living areas, providing a ‘home away from home’ experience.
Temporary Staff Housing: A general term for any accommodation provided to employees on a temporary basis.
Corporate Housing: Specifically designed for business travellers and professionals, offering amenities geared towards productivity and comfort.
Serviced Apartments: Fully furnished apartments with hotel-like services such as cleaning, laundry, and sometimes concierge.
Who provides temporary staff housing?
Temporary staff housing can be provided by:
Specialised Corporate Housing Providers: Companies like Synergy, Oakwood, or local providers who manage extensive portfolios of furnished apartments.
Serviced Apartment Companies: Operators of branded serviced apartment buildings.
Relocation Companies: Often partner with housing providers to offer a complete relocation package.
Individual Landlords/Property Managers: Some private landlords may offer their furnished properties for short-term corporate lets.
Employers Directly: Larger companies may lease or own properties specifically for their staff.
Do companies provide temporary housing for employees/interns/new hires?
Yes, many companies do! It’s a common practice, especially for:
Relocation: Employees moving to a new city for a job.
Project-Based Work: Staff on temporary assignments in different locations.
Internships: To attract top talent, particularly in competitive industries.
New Hires: To ease the transition period and allow them time to find permanent accommodation.
The extent of provision varies greatly by company, industry, and the employee’s role.
Duration, Costs, and Financial Implications
How long can someone stay in temporary staff housing?
Stays can range from a few days to over a year, but typically they are for:
Short-term: 1-3 months (e.g., during a probation period or short project).
Medium-term: 3-6 months (common for relocations or longer assignments).
Long-term: Up to a year or more, particularly for large projects or extended international assignments.
The duration often depends on company policy, the nature of the assignment, and the availability of the property.
Is temporary staff housing taxable/part of salary?
In many cases, the provision of temporary accommodation by an employer can be considered a “benefit in kind” and may be subject to income tax or National Insurance contributions (in the UK, for example). This is a complex area, and it’s essential for both employers and employees to seek advice from a tax professional or HR to understand the specific implications in their region. Generally, if the housing is provided for a “business purpose” (e.g., a genuine relocation or temporary assignment away from the regular place of work), there may be exemptions or specific rules.
How much does temporary staff housing cost?
Costs vary significantly based on:
Location: Major cities like London or Manchester will be more expensive than regional towns.
Size and Type: A studio will cost less than a multi-bedroom apartment.
Amenities: Gym, concierge, specific services.
Duration: Longer stays often have lower nightly/weekly rates.
Time of Year: Peak seasons can drive up prices.
Generally, corporate housing is more expensive than a standard long-term rental but often cheaper than an equivalent hotel stay for extended periods.
Can I bring my family/pets to temporary staff housing?
This is entirely dependent on the specific property and the provider’s policy.
Family: Many larger corporate apartments are designed to accommodate families, but it needs to be arranged in advance and may incur extra costs.
Pets: Pet-friendly accommodation is less common but increasing. Always ask explicitly and expect to pay an additional pet deposit or fee. Never assume pets are allowed.
How do I deal with issues/disputes in temporary staff housing?
Document Everything: Take photos/videos of any issues (e.g., maintenance problems, damages).
Communicate Promptly: Report issues to the landlord or management company immediately, ideally in writing (email provides a record).
Follow Up: If the issue isn’t resolved, follow up politely but persistently.
Refer to Your Agreement: Your contract should outline the dispute resolution process.
Escalate if Necessary: If direct communication fails, you might need to involve your HR department (if housing is company-provided) or seek advice from a housing ombudsman or legal advisor.
Navigating temporary staff housing can seem complex, but by understanding these key aspects, both employers and employees can make informed decisions that lead to positive and productive experiences. Investing in quality temporary housing is an investment in your most valuable asset: your people.
Read our next blog, ‘Searching For Quality Staff Housing? 10 Things To Look Out For…‘
