Corporate accommodation, like that provided by Housd, is your essential base for business, but it’s much more than just a place to work and sleep. It’s a temporary home that offers the space and flexibility you need to maintain a healthy work-life balance—which includes personal time and hosting visitors.
Here is your guide to maximising the personal aspect of your corporate stay.
Can Family and Friends Visit Staff in Corporate Accommodation?
One of the greatest advantages of a serviced apartment over a hotel room is the freedom to host. While policies can vary, the general answer for serviced accommodation is yes, you can usually have visitors and even temporary guests, provided you adhere to common-sense and contractual rules.
Can My Partner Live There Temporarily?
This is a common question, especially for those on extended assignments or during relocation.
- For Short Visits (A few nights): In most cases, having your partner or family members stay for a weekend or a few nights is perfectly acceptable. Serviced apartments are booked per unit, not per person, up to the maximum occupancy. They offer the space, with a full kitchen and living area, for a comfortable visit.
- For Extended Stays (Weeks or Months): If your partner or a family member intends to live with you for a significant part of your stay, you must inform your corporate accommodation provider and your company. This is crucial for several reasons:
- Tax Implications: In the UK, HMRC rules regarding the tax exemption of corporate accommodation for temporary workers can be affected if a non-employee (like a partner) stays for a prolonged period for non-business reasons.
- Health and Safety/Insurance: The provider needs to know the correct number of occupants for fire safety and insurance purposes.
- Contractual Compliance: While providers are flexible, they require notification to ensure you’re not violating the terms of the agreement your company has with them.
Our Advice: Always check your company’s policy first, and then communicate your plans to Housd (or your accommodation provider). Open communication prevents any issues down the line.
Making the Most of Local Amenities
A hotel is a bubble; a serviced apartment in a residential or vibrant area is a gateway to local life. Here’s how to use your new neighbourhood to enhance your downtime:
1. Embrace Home Cooking and Local Produce
Your fully equipped kitchen is your biggest asset. Instead of eating out every night, which is costly and tiring, use your evenings to cook:
- Visit Local Markets and Butchers: Look up the nearest independent food markets or quality shops. Buying local ingredients is a great way to explore the neighbourhood and support local businesses.
- Stock up at Supermarkets: Having a full-size fridge and freezer means you can do a proper grocery shop and maintain a consistent, healthy diet.
2. Live Like a Local
Serviced apartments are often located closer to where people actually live, offering a genuine community feel.
- Find Your “Third Place”: Locate a great local coffee shop, gym, or park. Having a favourite spot outside of work and the apartment helps you feel settled and gives you an option to step away from your dedicated workspace.
- Use the Outdoors: Find walking or running routes near your apartment. Simple routines like a morning jog in the local park or an evening stroll to the local pub are vital for managing stress and feeling connected to the city.
3. Seek Out Convenient Services
Don’t spend your personal time running errands you could simplify:
- Local Healthcare: Note the location of the nearest pharmacy or general practitioner (GP), especially if you are staying for a long period.
- Transport Links: Master the public transport links near your apartment. Knowing how to quickly get to the city centre, a sports venue, or a major train station makes weekend exploration stress-free.
Stress Free Corporate Accommodation From Housd
By fully utilising the space in your serviced apartment and integrating into the surrounding community, your temporary accommodation truly transforms into a comfortable, flexible, and welcoming home base—for both you and your visitors.
For more details, speak to Housd today!
