Company Lets Explained: A Guide for UK Landlords | 20Property Management

"London is home to over 1 million businesses—and many of them are on the hunt for quality staff accommodation."

In the fast-moving world of corporate mobility and employee relocation, more landlords are tapping into the growing demand for flexible, fully-managed business lettings. If you’re a landlord exploring new ways to increase rental income, reduce void periods, and work with reliable tenants—welcome to the world of company lets.

Far from being a niche option, company lets are becoming a go-to strategy for savvy landlords offering staff housing for companies, corporate serviced apartments for rent, and temporary accommodation for staff working across sectors like tech, finance, and healthcare.

But what exactly is a company let? And how does it differ from the traditional tenant-landlord model? Let's break it down.

What is a Company Let in the UK?

A company let is a rental agreement between a landlord and a business, not an individual. The business becomes the official tenant, renting the property to house employees, contractors, or executives.

These types of agreements are commonly used for staff accommodation in London, employee relocation housing in the UK, or group accommodation for teams deployed for short-term projects or long-term business operations.

Unlike traditional residential tenancies, which are governed by the Housing Act 1988, company lets are regulated by common law, meaning:

• They are non-assured tenancies.

• The tenant (i.e., the company) is not protected by laws like the Tenancy Deposit Scheme or Section 21 notices.

• The rules for eviction, deposit handling, and rent increases are more flexible—if set up properly.

Why Do Companies Choose Company Lets?

Businesses today are more mobile than ever. From startups expanding into new markets to global firms relocating executives, there’s a consistent demand for furnished corporate flats in London, long-term rentals for business, and employee accommodation across the UK.

Here’s why businesses prefer company lets:

• Convenience: One point of contact for all employee housing needs.

• Flexibility: Short or long-term rental options with tailored agreements.

• Cost-effectiveness: Less expensive than putting staff in hotels.

• Compliance: Suitable for businesses managing multiple staff accommodations and offering staff accommodation tax benefits.

It’s especially ideal for sectors with rotational workforces, frequent relocations, or extended travel schedules—think Business Travel UK and Business Travel London.

Key Differences from Traditional Tenancies

Let’s compare a company let with a traditional assured shorthold tenancy (AST):

Feature	Company Let	AST
Tenant	A registered company	An individual
Law Applies	Common law	Housing Act 1988
Deposit Protection	Not legally required	Mandatory
Notice Periods	Flexible, agreed in contract	Legally defined
Eviction Process	Via common law rules	Regulated and formal

Because companies are not classed as consumers, they do not receive the same protections an individual tenant would. This gives landlords more autonomy, but also requires due diligence—particularly in choosing the right company tenant.

How Does a Company Let Work?

Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Agreement Type: A non-assured tenancy agreement is signed between the landlord and the company.

2. Purpose: The property is used to house employees, usually for corporate accommodation in London or employee relocation housing UK-wide.

3. Rent: Rent is paid directly by the company, and rent increases can be written into the agreement or negotiated as needed.

4. Deposit: A deposit may still be taken, but it’s not protected under the standard schemes.

5. Ending the Tenancy: The tenancy can be ended with a Notice to Quit, usually requiring at least 4 weeks’ notice, unless the tenant breaches the agreement.

Benefits for Landlords

Renting through a company let can unlock serious advantages:

✅ Higher Rental Income: Businesses often pay a premium for furnished, well-located staff accommodation.

✅ Longer Tenancy Periods: Companies typically commit to longer stays, reducing voids.

✅ Tax Benefits: There may be staff accommodation tax benefits for both parties.

✅ Less Wear & Tear: Companies tend to professionally manage their employees' conduct in the property.

Risks and What to Watch For

⚠️ Company Insolvency: If a company goes under, the landlord may be left chasing unpaid rent.

⚠️ Lack of Control Over Occupants: The landlord rents to the company, not the individuals staying in the property.

⚠️ Legal Complexity: These agreements need to be properly drafted—ideally with legal advice.

Final Thoughts: Is a Company Let Right for You?

If you're open to a professional, stable, and potentially more lucrative rental model, company lets are worth considering. From temporary accommodation for staff to flexible company leases in the UK, it’s a smart route for landlords who want to tap into corporate demand.

How 20Property Management Can Help

At 20Property Management, we specialise in short-term rental property management in London and across the UK—and that includes expertly managing company lets from start to finish.

We take care of everything:

• Listing your property on the right platforms

• Screening corporate clients

• Handling guest management

• Providing 24/7 support

• Maintaining your property to a high standard

Whether you want to offer corporate serviced apartments for rent, staff accommodation in London, or employee accommodation UK-wide, we’re here to manage it all—so you don’t have to.

📍 Based in London. Trusted nationwide. Let’s talk about how we can help you turn your property into a premium company let. Reach out today! Need help setting up a company let or want to maximise your rental income through smart property management?

Contact 20Property and let us do the heavy lifting for you.