Suggested Self Catering Setup
Suggested Set Up for Self Catering Properties
We have outlined items that guests would expect when arriving to a self catering apartment. Of course this is only suggested list, while some items are more desireable than others, it is just to give you an idea of what would be more than useful (over time) when you decide to prepare your apartment for the short-term let market.
It is also useful to note that while guests may not complain to you as the owner, if they are unhappy, they will cerainly note their experience to their friends. So, firstly, may we suggest you offer a feedback form, where guests can write down their comments (and criticisms) of the flat. This gives the guests an opportunity to note down their problems - and if you respond back to the guests, they will have a much more satifsfying experience.
Self Catering Apartment - The Lounge & Dining Area
- Sofabed & Sofa/chairs – there should be seating for the number of people the flat can sleep
- Fire Safety equipment (including Smoke Detector and Fire Extinguisher)
- Dining space for the number of guests you allow in the self catering apartment
- Wifi (you will lose booking as most guests consider this an essential requirement)
- Upholstered furnishings must comply with the Furnishing (Fire) Safety Regulations 1988. This applies to furnishings that have been upholstered (ie: mattress, couch, cushions). All new furniture comes with a label verifying its safety. If you choose to use second-hand (or used) furniture, ensure that it has the appropriate fire-safety labels attached to it.
(Please note when furnishing a property you must adhere to the Furniture and Fire Safety Regulations.)
Self Catering Apartment Kitchen Items
The kitchen appears to be used mostly for breakfast – the toaster being used lots, drinks and storing snacks, etc. Washing machines are often requested and rarely used. Make cleaning equipment visible if you want people to use it. A few signs indicating what is where is also very useful. Guests tend to look for items, and can get frustrated if they don't know where it is. For example the iron and the ironing board are not usually kept in a standard location in the flat, so let the guests know where it is stored.
Crockery, and glasses are easily broken or chipped, so don't go and purchase expensive items in that arena, all the large supermarkets and Ikea offer these items at very low cost - they are practical, and absolutely suitable for use in the self catering market.
Keep your apartment very clean - your cleaner is a very important part of this business. Guests will put up with basic items, but they will not forgive a dirty flat.
Self Catering apartment - Items for the Bedrooms
If you have a 2 bedroom flat; we would suggest you offer 1 double bed and 2 twin beds. It is also possible to purchase zip and link beds which will offer your guests the most options for sleeping arrangements. An important thing to remember is that you will need a least 2 sets of linens (although we sometimes suggest 3 sets over busy periods); for each bed option in the flat. So if it is possible to have 4 single beds in the flat, you will need to have at least 8 sets of bed linen and 4 duvets; while if you could turn your single beds into 2 double beds; you will need 4 sets of double beds and 2 duvets. Another piece of information to consider is where you are going to store the spare sheets and duvets. As duvets are bulky items it not that easy to store them in a small cupboard.- Towels for each guest - (2 or 3 sets)
- Bedside tables with lamps and possibly radio alarm clocks
- Curtains and/or blinds for each bedroom
- Wardrobes (including hangars); as very few guests bring their own hangars
Bathroom
Toilet paper
Mat
Toilet Brush
It isn't hard to imagine that the Bathroom is the most used room in the self catering apartment. Guests expect them to be clean, modern, and spacious. While baths may not be essential; showers are an essential part of the bathroom. Many guests will not book your self catering apartment if it does not host a shower. It is suggest that for 3 or more bedroom apartments there be 2 bathrooms available in the flat.
