Ask the Expert
By Mike Stapley, Sales Manager, The Apartment Service
What about changeovers?
Usually, the guest needs to vacate
a serviced apartment by 10 or 11am on
the day of departure, and the next guest
can't check in before 3pm. In other
words, just like most hotels, especially in
the extended stay end of the sector.
Corporate housing products may have
different changeover schedules and
especially in the leisure market,
changeover may take place on a fixed
day each week.
How secure are serviced
apartments?
Because most bookers and guests realise
they are buying a residential product,
they understand that there is security
within the apartment itself. Outside the
apartment there isn't the same level of
customer traffic as you would have in a
hotel, particularly in terms of nonresidential
guests, and there is generally
a more communal spirit to the relationship
with other residents.
Apartment operators carry
different levels of insurance
such as public liability
Location is a bigger issue because
corporates are naturally keen to ensure
that their employees are living in safe
areas. Serviced apartment operators are
well aware of these sensitivities; serviced
apartments in less salubrious areas simply
don't sell!
The thing about serviced apartment
providers is that they will endeavour to
provide whatever the guest wants. So if
you are concerned about security and
want special arrangements to be made,
it can be done. Whether it's a welcome
pack or a special meet-and-greet service,
as with hotels differing standards are
reflected in the price.