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Preparing a property for serviced accommodation starts with safety: a fire risk assessment, working alarms, a gas safety check and safe electrics. Then refresh decoration and bathrooms, furnish for working guests, install fast Wi-Fi and set up self check-in. Neutral, hard-wearing finishes last longest.
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In what order should you prepare a serviced property?
Prepare a serviced property in this order, so later work does not have to be undone.
- Consents. Confirm mortgage, lease, insurance and any planning position.
- Safety. Fire risk assessment, alarms, gas safety check and electrical inspection.
- Repairs and decoration. Fix defects, then paint in neutral, washable finishes.
- Bathrooms and kitchen. Refresh tired fittings, as guests judge these closely.
- Furnishing. Beds, seating, dining and work space, with fire-safe labels.
- Technology and access. Fast Wi-Fi, smart TV and keyless entry.
- Photography. Professional photos once the home is finished.
What safety work is needed before guests arrive?
Safety work comes first, because fire safety law applies from the first paying guest.
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See the government guide to fire safety for paying guests.
Neutral, washable paint lasts longer. Photo from Pexels.
What finishes work best for serviced accommodation?
Durable, neutral and easy to clean. Serviced homes see more use than a family home, so choose finishes that survive regular cleaning.
- Washable paint in neutral colours
- Hard flooring or hard-wearing carpet
- Good showers, with screens rather than curtains
- Blackout blinds in bedrooms
- Plenty of sockets, including near beds and the work table
Read our room-by-room furnishing checklist.
Can Esho Stays prepare the property?
Yes. If we take a home under a company lease, we can help furnish and style it for our guests, once safety and consents are in place.
- Esho Stays becomes your tenant under a company lease
- Rent is paid in full every month, even if the property is empty
- We list the home across major booking platforms and our direct network of more than 30 companies
- We handle bookings, guest screening, communication, cleaning and maintenance
- Regular inspections, with cleaning between every stay
- A landlord dashboard showing upcoming bookings and performance
See our serviced accommodation management guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to prepare a property for serviced accommodation?
A home in good condition can be ready in two to four weeks, covering safety checks, furnishing and photography. Homes needing redecoration or new bathrooms take longer. Getting consents from the lender and freeholder can take the most time, so start early.
Do I need an EPC for serviced accommodation?
You should check whether your property needs an energy performance certificate. GOV.UK guidance for self-catering homes advises owners to check. A better energy rating also lowers bills, which matters when the operator or owner pays utilities.
Should I renovate before serviced accommodation?
Fix defects and refresh tired kitchens and bathrooms, as guests judge these closely. Major renovations are not always needed. Spend first where guests notice most, such as beds, showers and Wi-Fi, before structural changes.
What technology does a serviced property need?
Fast, reliable Wi-Fi is essential, followed by a smart TV and keyless entry for self check-in. Smart thermostats help control heating costs between stays. Avoid indoor cameras, which breach guests’ privacy.
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Preparing a property?
Tell us about it, and we will explain what we would need to take it on.
