Unlocking the Potential of Insurance and Relocation Stays

The Rising Demand for Extended Stay Housing

Insurance relocations have become increasingly common, especially with the rise in extreme weather events and home construction delays. Unlike typical vacation rentals that last a few days, these guests need a true home away from home – often for 30 to 90 days or more. They're looking for properties that can accommodate their entire family, provide essential amenities, and offer the flexibility to extend their stay if needed.

These guests represent a goldmine for savvy property managers. They typically book longer stays, require less turnover, and are willing to pay premium rates for the right accommodations. However, their needs are distinctly different from leisure travelers, and your property setup needs to reflect that.

Understanding Your Insurance Relocation Guests

Before diving into property modifications, it's crucial to understand who these guests are and what they're going through. Insurance relocation guests are often dealing with stressful situations – their primary home may have been damaged by fire, flood, or severe weather. They're not on vacation; they're trying to maintain normalcy while their lives are temporarily disrupted.

These families need:

• Space to spread out and feel at home

• Storage for their belongings

• Kid-friendly environments if they have children

• Reliable internet for work and school

• Full kitchen facilities to maintain regular routines

• Flexible living arrangements that can adapt to changing timelines

  
  

Essential Property Features for Insurance Stays

Family-Friendly Layouts Are King

Properties with open floor plans, multiple bedrooms, and separate living areas consistently outperform studio or one-bedroom units for insurance relocations. Families need space to maintain their routines, whether that's helping kids with homework at the dining table while parents work from the living room, or having quiet areas for video calls.

Consider properties with:

• At least two bedrooms (three is even better)

• Separate living and dining areas

• Multiple bathrooms

• Dedicated workspace or office nook

• Outdoor space like a patio or balcony

  
  

Kitchen Essentials Go Beyond the Basics

While vacation rental kitchens might get by with minimal cookware, insurance relocation guests need full functionality. They're not eating out every meal – they're trying to maintain their family's normal eating patterns and budget.

Stock your kitchen with:

• Full-size appliances (no mini-fridges here)

• Complete cookware sets including baking dishes

• Adequate dishware for the maximum occupancy

• Small appliances like coffee maker, toaster, and microwave

• Plenty of storage containers for leftovers

• Basic pantry staples like salt, pepper, oil, and coffee

  
  

Simple Adjustments That Make a Big Impact

Extra Linens and Towels

This might seem obvious, but it's often overlooked. Insurance relocation guests can't easily run home to grab extra sheets when the washing machine is running. Stock each bedroom with at least two complete sets of linens, plus extra blankets and pillows. In bathrooms, provide at least three towels per person, plus bath mats and washcloths.

Flexible Seating Solutions

Extended stay guests often need to reconfigure spaces for different activities. Provide lightweight chairs that can easily move between rooms, ottoman storage pieces that double as seating, and consider a small folding table that can serve as a workspace or extra dining area when needed.

Storage Solutions Throughout

Temporary doesn't mean these guests travel light. They often have suitcases, work materials, kids' toys, and other belongings that need organized storage. Add:

• Dresser space in all bedrooms

• Closet organizers to maximize hanging space

• Storage baskets or bins in common areas

• Under-bed storage options

• Hall closet for coats and seasonal items

  
  

Creating a Welcoming Environment

The First Impression Matters More

When leisure travelers arrive, they're excited about their vacation. Insurance relocation guests might be stressed, tired, and dealing with difficult circumstances. Your property needs to immediately communicate comfort, cleanliness, and care.

Consider adding:

• A welcome basket with local information and basic necessities

• Clear instructions for all appliances and systems

• Emergency contact information prominently displayed

• Information about nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and essential services

• Comfortable lighting options beyond harsh overhead fixtures

  
  

Kid-Friendly Touches

Many insurance relocation bookings include families with children. Small additions can make these families choose your property over competitors:

• Safety outlets and cabinet locks if you advertise as child-friendly

• A basket of books or quiet toys

• Step stools in bathrooms

• Plastic dishware and cups for small children

• Baby gates if you have stairs

• Basic first aid kit accessible but secure

  
  

Technology and Connectivity

Reliable Internet Is Non-Negotiable

Unlike vacation guests who might disconnect, insurance relocation guests need internet for work, school, and managing their displaced situation. Invest in:

• High-speed internet with upload capacity for video calls

• Strong WiFi coverage throughout the property

• Backup internet solution (mobile hotspot) if possible

• Smart TV with major streaming services

• Adequate electrical outlets in all rooms for devices and chargers

  
  

Communication Systems

Extended stay guests often need to coordinate with insurance companies, contractors, and other service providers. Ensure they have:

• Clear cell phone reception throughout the property

• Landline phone if cell service is spotty

• Printer access (either in-unit or instructions for nearby services)

• Information about local shipping and receiving services

  
  

Pricing Strategy for Insurance Stays

Insurance relocation guests have different budget considerations than leisure travelers. Their stays are typically covered by insurance policies, which often have specific guidelines for temporary housing costs. Research the average "Loss of Use" coverage limits in your area and price accordingly.

Consider offering:

• Weekly and monthly rate discounts

• Flexible booking terms for uncertain timelines

• All-inclusive pricing that covers utilities and internet

• Transparent fee structures that work well with insurance claims

  
  

Marketing to Insurance Companies and Corporate Partners

Don't wait for individual guests to find you. Build relationships with:

• Local insurance companies and adjusters

• Corporate relocation services

• Extended stay hotel competitors who might refer overflow

• Real estate agents who work with displaced families

• Restoration and construction companies

  
  

Provide these partners with detailed property information, availability calendars, and streamlined booking processes.

Operational Considerations

Housekeeping and Maintenance

Extended stays require different housekeeping approaches. Weekly or bi-weekly cleaning services work better than the quick turnovers typical of vacation rentals. Establish clear protocols for:

• Mid-stay cleaning schedules

• Linen exchange programs

• Maintenance request procedures

• Supply restocking (toilet paper, soap, etc.)

  
  

At PBD Living, we offer specialized mid-stay cleaning services designed specifically for these longer stays.

Legal and Insurance Considerations

Extended stays can blur the lines between short-term rentals and residential tenancy. Consult with legal professionals to ensure your:

• Lease agreements are appropriate for extended stays

• Property insurance covers longer-term guests

• Local regulations are followed for stays over 30 days

• Security deposit and damage policies are clearly communicated

  
  

The Financial Upside

Properties properly configured for insurance and relocation stays often command 15-25% higher rates than traditional short-term rentals. The reduced turnover costs, lower marketing expenses (through corporate partnerships), and predictable booking patterns create a compelling business case for this specialization.

The key is understanding that these guests aren't looking for luxury amenities – they want functionality, comfort, and the feeling that someone understands their temporary but important housing needs.

By implementing these strategies and adjustments, you'll position your properties to capture this growing market segment while providing genuine value to families during challenging times. The insurance relocation market isn't just profitable – it's also an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives when they need it most.

Ready to optimize your property for extended stays? Contact PBD Living to learn more about our specialized services for insurance and corporate relocation housing.