In the dynamic world of UK business—from seasonal hospitality and large-scale construction projects to corporate relocations—the need for temporary staff accommodation is constant. At Housd, we know that simply providing a roof over their heads isn’t enough; true success comes from providing a comfortable, functional “home away from home.”
Happy, well-rested employees are productive employees. Here are our essential best practices for employers looking to secure and manage high-quality temporary house rentals for their staff in the UK.
1. Prioritise ‘Home’ Over ‘Hotel’
For any stay over a few weeks, your employees will appreciate a space that offers comfort and autonomy, not just a bed.
- Location, Location, Amenities: Choose properties in residential areas with easy access to essential amenities. Proximity to supermarkets, local shops, transport links, and a gym or green space can drastically improve morale. A 5-minute commute beats a 50-minute one every time.
- Create Zones: The accommodation should allow for distinct living areas. Ensure there is a comfortable communal lounge area for relaxation and a dedicated workspace (even just a proper desk and chair in the bedroom) for admin or remote work.
- The Power of a Private Sanctuary: Provide quality beds and mattresses, blackout curtains, and ample storage (wardrobe/drawers). The bedroom is an employee’s private space, and their ability to get a good night’s sleep is non-negotiable for their well-being and performance.
2. Full Functionality is Non-Negotiable: The Kitchen & Connectivity
Contractors and temporary staff should be able to maintain a healthy, normal routine, and the kitchen is central to this.
- The Fully-Equipped Kitchen: A kettle and a microwave won’t cut it for a longer stay. Ensure a full-sized fridge-freezer, a functional oven, plenty of cupboard space, and a complete set of cooking essentials (pots, pans, cutlery, crockery). This allows employees to cook healthy meals, saving money and improving dietary health.
- Uninterrupted Connectivity: Reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi is the single most important utility for a temporary worker. It’s essential for communication with their home life, entertainment, and any necessary remote working. Confirm the speed and reliability before signing a contract.
- Laundry Facilities: For extended stays, a washing machine is a must. Employees should not have to rely on expensive local laundrettes.
3. Provide Proactive Management and Support
A great property is only half the battle. Excellent management ensures a smooth, stress-free stay.
- 24/7 Support for Repairs: Things break. Whether it’s a boiler fault or a leaky tap, employees need a reliable, 24-hour point of contact to resolve emergencies quickly. Prolonged issues lead to frustration and a dip in productivity.
- Maintenance & Cleaning Schedules: While the staff is responsible for their personal space, employers should arrange weekly professional cleaning of communal areas (kitchen, lounges, bathrooms). This prevents conflict between flatmates and maintains a high standard of hygiene.
- Welcome Packs: A small gesture can make a huge difference. A welcome pack with essentials—local guide, basic groceries (milk, bread, tea/coffee), and toiletries—helps employees settle in immediately without needing to rush to the shops after a long journey.
Uk House Rentals without the stress
By focusing on these best practices, your company won’t just be providing a temporary stay; you’ll be delivering a valuable employee benefit that directly supports their well-being and the success of your project.
Of course, by turning to Housd, we take care of all the issues listed in point 3 – The management and support of your employees stay.
If you want to learn more, or simply find stress free accommodation for you and your staff today, speak to us!
If you want a deeper dive on issues surrounding shared accommodation, check out this blog.
