Long Term Stays and Your Hotel

Working in and around hotels, you’ll meet thousands of people visiting your city for work or pleasure, intending to return home within a few days. Less frequently, you’ll encounter individuals or families looking for a completely different experience.

Instead of a standard two- to four-day excursion, they seek what the industry refers to as a long-term stay. Extended Stay America and similar budget-friendly hotel brands are known for accommodating guests needing weekly lodging, often serving the most vulnerable populations.

While your hotel doesn’t need to center its business model around guests in financial distress, it’s worth considering how to assist those who turn to you for temporary housing.

Some may be business travelers or individuals scouting new locations for relocation. Others may be in more complicated situations, such as fleeing domestic violence or awaiting military relocation.

Your staff must be prepared for a variety of long-term guests. Clear communication is crucial – understanding why a guest has chosen an extended stay allows your team to accommodate their needs effectively.

Transparency also helps prevent misunderstandings, particularly if a guest attempts to stay beyond their intended period or exploits policies designed for short-term visitors.

Legal considerations for long-term guests

Hotels need to be aware of tenant laws in their state. In some jurisdictions, guests who stay longer than 28 days gain tenant rights, making eviction more complicated. Florida law differs significantly from California law, so it’s essential to understand your state’s regulations and craft policies accordingly. Failing to do so can lead to legal disputes, particularly in cases where guests claim squatter’s rights, forcing hotel operators into court battles for property control.

Managing operations for long-term guests

Hotels accommodating long-term stays must adjust their approach to housekeeping and amenities. Unlike standard short-term guests, extended-stay visitors require different service levels. Many upscale hotels don’t offer extended-stay options, but numerous budget-friendly properties do. BizStay once provided a comparative list of extended-stay accommodations, though industry standards have likely evolved since then.

Housekeeping should be managed efficiently – rather than daily room cleanings, offer limited services at set intervals to reduce resource strain. Be upfront with guests about laundry and linen service frequency so they understand expectations upon check-in.

Adapting to shifting market demands

Some hotels have fully embraced the long-term stay model. A Buffalo-based hotel brand recently converted some of its rooms into long-term accommodations, targeting professionals and individuals in transition. The shift was a response to changing market demands, including the ongoing housing crunch.

Hotel operators should consider whether this model suits their market and infrastructure. Studying local trends, strengthening legal compliance, and ensuring guest transparency will help hotels navigate this growing sector. As extended stays become a more common lodging solution, hotels that adapt wisely will find new revenue streams while serving their communities effectively.