At Trade Stays, we know from experience that well-managed accommodation can make or break the success of a project. Whether you’re in construction, oil & gas, healthcare or organising large-scale events, housing your workforce is more than just providing a bed, it directly impacts productivity, morale, and cost control.
Over the past 6+ years, working with project managers across the UK, we’ve gathered insights and feedback that shaped this list of our Top 10 Tips for Managing Team Accommodation. These practical steps will help you optimise conditions for your workforce while keeping your project on track.
1. Plan Early
Early planning is essential in managing site team accommodation effectively. As soon as the project’s location and duration are confirmed, start scouting for accommodation options. Early planning helps in securing the best rates and locations, ensuring that the accommodation aligns with the project’s needs and budget constraints. It also avoids last-minute hassles and price surges, which are common with late bookings.
2. Assess the Location
Choosing the right location for your team’s accommodation is crucial. The site should ideally be close to the project area to minimise travel time and reduce transportation costs. However, consider the surroundings – is the area safe? Are there essential services nearby like medical centers, shops, and recreational facilities? Ensuring these elements can significantly enhance the living experience for your team.
3. Safety and Security
The safety and security of your team should be a top priority. Assess the security measures available at the accommodation site. Are there CCTV cameras? Is there off street parking? A secure living environment is essential for the peace of mind and productivity of your team members.
4. Amenities and Comfort
While basic amenities are a must, providing additional comforts can greatly enhance the stay. Facilities such as Wi-Fi, Netflix, outdoor space, and a common room can make a big difference in the quality of life. These amenities help in maintaining morale and can reduce stress and burnout among team members.
5. Flexible Accommodation Options
Project timelines and scopes can change, requiring your accommodation to be flexible. Opt for accommodation providers who can offer flexible terms, such as the ability to extend stays without hefty penalties or accommodate more team members as the project scales.
6. Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Ensure that the accommodation is well-maintained and conduct regular inspections. Dealing with issues like plumbing problems, electrical faults, or general maintenance promptly is essential to ensure the accommodation remains comfortable and safe for your team.
7. Clear Communication
Maintain clear and open lines of communication with both your team and the accommodation provider. Make sure your team knows who to contact for any issues regarding their lodging. Similarly, keep in regular contact with the accommodation provider to resolve any issues swiftly and to receive updates about any changes that might affect your arrangements.
8. Budget Management
Managing the budget effectively is crucial for site team accommodation. Be clear about what is included in the price and what isn’t. Utilities, cleaning services, and Wi-Fi can sometimes come at an extra cost. Always look for transparency to avoid hidden charges that could impact your project’s budget.
9. Feedback System
Implement a feedback system to gather insights from your team about their accommodation experience. This feedback is invaluable for making improvements and ensuring that future accommodations meet or exceed expectations. It also shows your team that their comfort and satisfaction are important to the project’s success.
10. Compliance and Legalities
Finally, ensure that all accommodations comply with the local laws and regulations. This includes health and safety standards, occupancy rules, and any specific legal requirements that might apply to temporary accommodations. Non-compliance can result in legal issues, fines, and a tarnished reputation.
Conclusion
Managing team accommodation isn’t just logistics, it’s an investment in your project’s success. A safe, comfortable, and well-organised living environment boosts morale, reduces downtime, and ultimately saves money.
At Trade Stays, we’ve built a network of 35 ,000+ properties across the UK, meaning we can usually source the right accommodation in less than 24 hours. Whether you need short-term housing or long-term site solutions, our team takes the stress out of the process so you can focus on what matters most: delivering your project.
Want to explore your options? Share your requirements with us, and we’ll provide a tailored, no-obligation quote fast, simple, and hassle-free.