What Is Corporate Housing? A Complete Guide

Finding suitable accommodation for extended business trips or relocations can be a real challenge. We understand the stress of securing comfortable, flexible housing when you need to stay somewhere for weeks or months rather than just a few nights.

Corporate housing in the UK is fully furnished temporary accommodation for business travellers and relocating employees. It includes apartments or houses with kitchens, utilities, internet, and housekeeping for 30+ day stays.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about corporate housing in the UK. We’ll cover the types of properties available, the benefits for both employees and employers, typical costs, and how to find the right corporate housing solution for your needs. Whether you’re planning a business relocation to London or need temporary accommodation during a project assignment, this article will help you make an informed decision about corporate housing options across the UK.

Defining Corporate Housing in the UK

Corporate housing represents a specialised accommodation solution that bridges the gap between hotel stays and long-term rentals. These professionally managed properties provide temporary living spaces specifically designed for business professionals, relocated employees, and extended-stay guests who require more than basic hotel amenities.

Key Features of Corporate Housing

Corporate housing provides fully furnished living environments that guests can occupy immediately without requiring any setup or additional purchases. These properties include complete kitchen facilities, separate living areas, bedroom suites, and workspace areas with all necessary furnishings and equipment provided.

Professional management services form the backbone of corporate housing operations. Properties receive regular housekeeping, maintenance support, and guest services throughout the stay period. This service level ensures consistent quality whilst maintaining the comfort and privacy of residential living.

Properties offer flexible lease arrangements typically ranging from 30 days to several months or longer. This flexibility accommodates business travellers with uncertain project timelines, employees undergoing relocations, and organisations requiring temporary housing solutions for their workforce.

All-inclusive pricing structures distinguish corporate housing from traditional rentals. Properties typically include:

• Complete furniture packages and home essentials
• Utilities, including electricity, gas, water, and heating
• High-speed internet and cable television services
• Professional housekeeping and linen services
• 24/7 customer support and maintenance assistance
• Access to building amenities such as fitness centres and parking

Types of Corporate Accommodation

Serviced apartments represent the most common form of corporate housing in the UK. These purpose-built or converted residential units offer hotel-style services within apartment settings, providing separate living, sleeping, and kitchen areas for enhanced comfort during extended stays.

Corporate houses cater to families or groups requiring additional space and privacy. These detached or semi-detached properties include multiple bedrooms, private gardens, and enhanced living areas suitable for longer-term relocations or project assignments.

Executive suites provide premium accommodation solutions for senior business professionals. These high-specification properties feature luxury furnishings, prime locations near business districts, and enhanced service packages including concierge support and premium amenities.

Aparthotels combine apartment-style living with hotel services and facilities. These properties offer the independence of self-catering accommodation alongside reception services, housekeeping, and on-site facilities such as restaurants and meeting rooms.

Comparison with Hotels

Traditional hotels operate on nightly accommodation models with standardised room formats and daily housekeeping services. Corporate housing functions on longer-term arrangements that prioritise residential comfort over hotel-style hospitality services.

Space allocation differs significantly between the two accommodation types. Hotel rooms typically provide 25-35 square metres of space with limited storage and no cooking facilities. Corporate housing offers 50-100+ square metres with separate living areas, full kitchens, and comprehensive storage solutions.

Cost structures favour corporate housing for extended stays. Whilst nightly hotel rates may appear competitive, corporate housing provides better value for stays exceeding two weeks through reduced daily rates and included utilities that eliminate additional expenses.

Service expectations vary between accommodation types. Hotels provide daily housekeeping, room service, and front desk support. Corporate housing offers weekly or bi-weekly cleaning services, maintenance support, and flexible guest services that respect residential privacy whilst ensuring property upkeep.

Who Uses Corporate Housing in the UK?

Corporate housing serves a diverse range of professionals and organisations requiring temporary accommodation solutions that exceed standard hotel offerings. These users typically need extended-stay arrangements with residential amenities and flexible terms that adapt to changing business requirements.

Business Travellers

Senior executives frequently utilise corporate housing for extended business assignments lasting several weeks to months. These professionals require comfortable workspace areas, reliable internet connectivity, and residential privacy that supports both work productivity and personal well-being during lengthy stays away from home.

Consultants and contractors working on specific projects choose corporate housing when assignments extend beyond typical hotel stay durations. These arrangements provide cost-effective accommodation solutions that include kitchen facilities for meal preparation and separate living areas for client meetings or focused work sessions.

Sales teams and regional managers benefit from corporate housing when establishing new territories or managing extended client relationships. Properties located near business districts offer convenient access to client offices whilst providing comfortable spaces for proposal preparation and team collaboration.

Standard amenities that attract business travellers include:

• Dedicated workspace areas with ergonomic furniture
• High-speed broadband suitable for video conferencing
• Separate phone lines for business communications
• Professional address for mail and package deliveries
• Flexible housekeeping schedules that accommodate work routines

Relocating Employees

International transfers represent a significant user group for corporate housing services. Companies relocating employees from overseas often provide temporary accommodation whilst permanent housing arrangements are finalised, school placements are secured, and families adapt to new locations.

Domestic relocations within the UK frequently require corporate housing solutions when employees move between cities for career advancement or company restructuring. These arrangements bridge the gap between selling existing properties and purchasing new homes in different locations.

Graduate trainees and new hires sometimes receive corporate housing as part of recruitment packages, particularly for positions in expensive areas like London where immediate permanent housing may be financially challenging or logistically complex for young professionals.

Family-friendly features that support relocating employees include:

• Multiple bedroom configurations for families with children
• Proximity to good schools and educational facilities
• Safe neighbourhoods with local amenities and transport links
• Flexible lease terms that accommodate property purchase timelines
• Pet-friendly policies for families with animals

Corporate Teams and Project Workers

Project-based teams working on major infrastructure, construction, or technology implementations often require group accommodation solutions. Corporate housing providers can arrange multiple properties in the same area or large houses that accommodate entire teams whilst maintaining professional working relationships.

Training groups and course attendees utilise corporate housing when participating in extended professional development programmes or certification courses that last several weeks or months. These arrangements offer better value than individual hotel bookings whilst providing communal spaces for study and collaboration.

Research and development teams working on confidential projects benefit from corporate housing that offers secure, private environments away from company premises. These properties provide controlled access and confidential meeting spaces suitable for sensitive work activities.

Group booking advantages include:

• Coordinated accommodation for multiple team members
• Shared common areas for team meetings and collaboration
• Bulk booking discounts for extended project durations
• Centralised billing and administration for corporate accounts
• Flexibility to add or reduce accommodation as team sizes change

Benefits of Corporate Housing

Corporate housing offers three primary advantages over traditional accommodation options: the comfort of home-like living spaces, significant cost savings for extended stays, and unmatched flexibility for business requirements. These benefits make corporate housing the preferred choice for organisations and individuals requiring temporary accommodation solutions.

Home-Like Atmosphere

Corporate housing provides genuine residential environments that allow guests to maintain normal routines whilst away from their permanent homes. Properties feature separate living areas, bedrooms, and fully equipped kitchens that create comfortable spaces for both work and relaxation.

Space and privacy represent key advantages over hotel accommodation. A typical corporate apartment offers 60-100 square metres compared to standard hotel rooms of 20-30 square metres. This additional space includes separate areas for sleeping, working, cooking, and entertaining.

Kitchen facilities enable guests to prepare their own meals and maintain healthy eating habits. Full-size refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and complete cookware allow normal food preparation routines. This particularly benefits families with children or professionals with specific dietary requirements.

Personal touches help create welcoming environments during extended stays. We often see guests adding:

• Family photographs and personal decorations
• Favourite books and entertainment items
• Comfortable clothing and personal care products
• Work materials and office equipment

Neighbourhood integration places guests within residential communities rather than commercial hotel districts. This provides access to local shops, parks, schools, and services that support normal daily life.

The home-like atmosphere reduces stress and improves well-being during extended business assignments or relocations.

Cost Efficiency and Value

Corporate housing delivers substantial cost savings compared to extended hotel stays, making it an attractive option for both individuals and organisations managing accommodation budgets.

Accommodation costs favour corporate housing for stays exceeding two weeks. Hotel rates average £120-200 per night in major UK cities, whilst corporate housing typically costs £80-150 per night for equivalent space and amenities.

Self-catering savings significantly reduce daily expenses. Hotel guests typically spend £30-50 per day on meals, whilst corporate housing guests can prepare meals for £10-15 per day using kitchen facilities.

Included services eliminate additional charges that accumulate in hotel stays. Corporate housing rates typically include:

• All utilities including electricity, gas, and water
• High-speed internet and cable television
• Weekly housekeeping and linen services
• Local telephone services
• Access to building amenities

Corporate discounts provide additional savings for organisations with multiple bookings. Companies can negotiate volume rates, extended-stay discounts, and simplified billing arrangements that reduce administrative costs.

We calculate that corporate housing typically costs 30-40% less than equivalent hotel accommodation for stays exceeding one month.

Convenience and Flexibility

Corporate housing adapts to changing business requirements through flexible terms and comprehensive support services that simplify accommodation management for both guests and organisations.

Flexible lease terms accommodate uncertain project timelines and changing business needs. Most providers offer month-to-month arrangements after minimum 30-day stays, allowing guests to extend or reduce accommodation without penalty fees.

Move-in ready properties eliminate setup time and logistical complications. Corporate housing includes complete furniture, household essentials, and working utilities that allow immediate occupancy. Guests can begin working productively from day one.

Professional support ensures smooth operations throughout extended stays. Providers typically offer:

• 24/7 customer service for urgent issues
• Local area guidance and recommendations
• Maintenance and repair coordination
• Housekeeping schedule management
• Administrative support for booking changes

Simplified billing reduces administrative burden for corporate clients. Single monthly invoices cover all accommodation costs, utilities, and services. This eliminates the complex expense reporting required for hotel stays with variable charges.

Strategic locations place corporate housing near business districts whilst maintaining residential comfort. Properties offer convenient access to offices, transport links, and essential services without sacrificing quality of life.

Popular Types of Corporate Accommodation

Corporate accommodation in the UK includes four main property types that serve different business needs and budget requirements. Each option offers distinct advantages depending on the length of stay, service requirements, and guest preferences.

Understanding these accommodation types helps organisations choose the most suitable option for their specific requirements. The choice often depends on factors like budget, location preferences, required service levels, and the nature of the business assignment.

Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments provide the highest level of service within corporate accommodation. These properties combine residential living spaces with comprehensive hotel-style services and premium amenities.

Hotel-standard services include daily housekeeping, 24/7 reception, concierge support, and on-site facilities. Properties typically feature restaurants, fitness centres, business facilities, and secure parking arrangements.

Prime locations place serviced apartments in prestigious business districts and central areas. London properties cluster around Canary Wharf, the City, Mayfair, and other premium locations that offer convenient access to major corporate headquarters.

Professional management ensures consistent quality and reliable service delivery. Serviced apartments typically include:

• Daily housekeeping and linen service
• 24/7 front desk and guest support
• On-site dining and room service options
• Business centres with meeting facilities
• Fitness and wellness amenities
• Concierge services for travel and entertainment

Premium pricing reflects the comprehensive service package. Serviced apartments typically cost £150-400 per night depending on location and specification.

Target guests include senior executives, international business travellers, and organisations requiring prestigious accommodation for important clients or extended assignments.

Corporate Apartments

Corporate apartments focus specifically on business requirements with professional amenities and flexible lease arrangements. These properties prioritise functionality and productivity over luxury services.

Business-ready features include dedicated workspace areas, multiple phone lines, high-speed internet, and professional furnishings suitable for client meetings and extended work sessions.

Flexible terms accommodate varying business requirements through adaptable contracts ranging from monthly agreements to annual arrangements. This flexibility benefits companies with changing accommodation needs or uncertain project timelines.

Corporate apartments typically offer weekly housekeeping, maintenance support, professional billing, and corporate account management. Properties focus on reliability and business functionality rather than luxury amenities.

Mid-range pricing makes corporate apartments cost-effective for extended business stays. Rates typically range from £100-250 per night depending on location and size.

These properties suit consultants, project teams, relocated employees, and business travellers who need professional environments without extensive service packages.

Extended-Stay Hotels

Extended-stay hotels bridge traditional hotels and residential accommodation by offering familiar hotel services adapted for longer stays. Properties include enhanced living spaces and basic self-catering facilities.

Hotel infrastructure provides standardised booking systems, loyalty programmes, and consistent service delivery. This familiarity appeals to corporate travel managers and frequent business travellers accustomed to hotel arrangements.

Kitchen facilities distinguish extended-stay properties from standard hotels. Rooms typically include kitchenettes with refrigerators, microwaves, and basic cooking equipment for meal preparation.

Extended-stay hotels offer limited daily housekeeping, front desk services, basic fitness facilities, and sometimes continental breakfast. Properties maintain hotel standards whilst providing enhanced living spaces for longer stays.

Chain operations provide nationwide coverage through established brands offering corporate accounts and volume discounts. Major operators include Premier Inn, Travelodge, and international extended-stay specialists.

Moderate pricing typically ranges from £80-150 per night for extended-stay hotel accommodation in major UK cities.

These properties work well for business travellers requiring familiar hotel experiences with enhanced living spaces for stays exceeding one week.

Furnished Apartments

Furnished apartments offer the most residential experience within corporate accommodation. Properties provide complete home environments without extensive service packages or hotel-style amenities.

Residential environments feature full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, living areas, and complete household equipment. These properties mirror normal home living whilst providing temporary accommodation solutions.

Neighbourhood locations place furnished apartments in residential areas rather than commercial districts. This provides authentic local experiences and access to community amenities like shops, schools, and recreational facilities.

Furnished apartments operate on a self-service basis with minimal ongoing support. Property managers typically provide welcome orientation, emergency contacts, basic maintenance coordination, and utility management.

Cost advantages make furnished apartments attractive for longer stays and budget-conscious organisations. Properties typically cost 20-30% less than serviced apartments whilst providing similar living spaces.

Budget-friendly pricing ranges from £60-120 per night depending on location and property size.

Furnished apartments suit relocating families, extended assignments lasting several months, project workers, and anyone requiring residential comfort with minimal service intervention during UK assignments.

How to Choose and Arrange Corporate Housing

Selecting and arranging corporate housing requires careful consideration of location, amenities, costs, and service requirements. The process involves multiple stakeholders, including property providers, corporate clients, and individual guests who each have different priorities and constraints.

Successful corporate housing arrangements balance guest comfort, business needs, and budget requirements through strategic planning and professional management. Understanding the selection and booking process helps organisations make informed decisions that support business objectives whilst ensuring guest satisfaction.

Working with Providers and Agents

Corporate housing providers offer different service levels and specialisations that affect pricing, availability, and guest experience. Understanding provider capabilities helps organisations select partners that align with specific accommodation requirements and business standards.

Types of providers:

• Specialist providers: Focus exclusively on corporate housing with extensive portfolios, guaranteed standards, and 24/7 support
• Property management companies: Operate mixed portfolios with competitive pricing but varying service standards
• International operators: Provide consistency across multiple countries (Oakwood, Synergy Global Housing, National Corporate Housing)
• Corporate housing agents: Act as intermediaries with relationships across multiple providers and price points

Working with agents and specialists:

• Agent advantages: Market knowledge, negotiating power, and time savings for corporate travel managers
• Professional property partners: JF Property Partners specialise in UK corporate housing solutions with extensive market knowledge and established provider networks
• Direct provider relationships: Better rates and flexible terms for organisations with regular accommodation needs
• Corporate accounts: Priority booking, volume discounts, and dedicated account management

Building successful relationships:

• Clear communication about requirements and expectations
• Regular performance reviews to maintain quality standards
• Ongoing evaluation for improved efficiency and cost savings

Legal Requirements and Policies

Corporate housing arrangements involve legal obligations and policy considerations that affect both providers and corporate clients. Understanding these requirements helps prevent compliance issues whilst protecting all parties’ interests.

Key legal requirements include:

• Licensing: Varies across UK local authorities with different regulations for short-term rentals and corporate accommodation
• Health and safety: Fire safety equipment, gas safety certificates, electrical inspections, and accessibility compliance
• Tax implications: VAT rates vary by accommodation type and duration, with different rules for serviced apartments versus furnished lettings
• Insurance coverage: Public liability, contents protection, and guest personal effects coverage required
• Data protection: GDPR compliance for handling guest personal information and corporate travel details

Corporate policy considerations typically cover:

• Accommodation standards and cost limits
• Booking procedures and approval processes
• Duty of care obligations for employee safety
• Contract terms specifying service standards and cancellation policies
• Payment arrangements and dispute resolution procedures

Booking Process and Duration Options

Corporate housing bookings require advance planning and coordination between multiple parties to secure suitable accommodation and manage changing business requirements.

Planning and selection process:

• Lead times: London properties require 4-6 weeks advance booking; other locations need 2-3 weeks notice
• Requirements gathering: Location preferences, budget constraints, required amenities, and anticipated duration
• Property selection: Review 3-5 options with specifications, photographs, and pricing information
• Virtual tours: Video calls for remote decision-making; site visits for comprehensive assessment

Duration and pricing options:

• Minimum stays: Most providers require 30-day minimum with monthly renewals available
• Short-term arrangements: 1-4 weeks at premium rates for urgent business requirements
• Extended assignments: 3-12 months qualify for preferential rates and enhanced service packages
• Seasonal pricing: Premium rates during summer months and business conference periods

Booking confirmation should include detailed property information, contact details, arrival procedures, and emergency contacts for smooth check-in processes.

Conclusion

Corporate housing has become an essential solution for UK businesses managing extended assignments and relocations. The combination of residential comfort, cost savings of 30-40% compared to hotels, and professional services makes it the superior choice for business travellers requiring temporary accommodation.

Understanding accommodation types and working with experienced providers ensures access to quality properties whilst managing legal and administrative requirements. The right corporate housing partner can streamline the entire process from initial requirements to move-in.

For expert guidance on corporate housing solutions across the UK, JF Property Partners offers comprehensive market knowledge and established provider networks. Visit us to discover how our specialists can secure ideal corporate housing for your business whilst ensuring competitive rates and quality standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

These common questions help clarify key aspects of corporate housing in the UK. Understanding these fundamentals ensures you make informed decisions about temporary accommodation for business needs.

What is meant by corporate house?

A corporate house is a fully furnished temporary accommodation designed for business use. These properties include kitchens, utilities, internet, and professional services for stays typically lasting 30+ days. They serve business travellers, relocated employees, and project teams needing residential comfort during extended assignments.

What’s another word for corporate housing?

Corporate housing is also called serviced apartments, furnished apartments, executive housing, temporary housing, and extended-stay accommodation. Business housing and corporate apartments are common terms, too. The terminology often depends on service level, with serviced apartments offering more hotel-style services.

How does one identify the best corporate housing providers in the UK?

The best providers have proven track records, comprehensive property portfolios, and professional service standards. Look for 24/7 support, transparent pricing, positive testimonials, and quality property relationships. Specialist providers like JF Property Partners offer market expertise and guide you through selection whilst ensuring competitive rates.

What is co-living housing in the UK?

Co-living provides shared accommodation with private bedrooms but shared common areas like kitchens and lounges. This differs from corporate housing as co-living focuses on community living with longer-term residents, whilst corporate housing offers private, fully equipped apartments for temporary business use.

What is a corporate rental?

A corporate rental is a temporary accommodation arrangement where companies lease furnished properties for employee business use. These include furniture, utilities, housekeeping, and professional services within the cost. They feature flexible terms, business amenities, and simplified billing for extended assignments.

What is an example of a corporate property?

A typical example is a two-bedroom serviced apartment in London’s Canary Wharf with an equipped kitchen, living areas, workspace, weekly housekeeping, and concierge services. Another could be a furnished Manchester house with three bedrooms, garden, parking, and monthly cleaning for relocating families or project teams.