Converting to Contractor Accommodation: Is It Right for You?
The boom in large projects in the Sizewell area has Suffolk homeowners asking whether their spare property, second home, or buy-to-let could earn more as contractor accommodation. The short answer: for most properties within an hour of the Sizewell area, yes.
What Conversion Involves
Converting a property to be ready for professional lets isn't as complex as you might think:
Essential upgrades:
- Durable, comfortable furniture (beds, sofas, dining)
- Fully equipped kitchen (oven, hob, microwave, fridge-freezer, kettle, toaster)
- Reliable WiFi installation
- Smart TV in living areas
- Quality bedding and towels
- Smoke and CO detectors to current standards
Nice to have:
- Washing machine and tumble dryer
- Dishwasher
- Garden furniture
- Dedicated workspace
Typical Conversion Costs
For a 3-bedroom property already in reasonable condition:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Furniture package | £3,000–£6,000 |
| Kitchen equipment | £500–£1,000 |
| Bedding & linen | £400–£800 |
| WiFi setup | £50–£100 |
| Smart TVs | £600–£1,200 |
| Safety compliance | £200–£400 |
| Total | £4,750–£9,500 |
At the rental rates achievable for workforce accommodation, most landlords recoup their conversion investment within 3–6 months.
Planning & Legal Considerations
- Planning permission is generally not required for furnished letting, but check with your local authority.
- Mortgage lender consent, inform your lender if switching from residential to a let property.
- Insurance, switch to a landlord insurance policy that includes short-let cover.
- Council tax vs business rates, properties let for more than 140 days per year may need business rates registration.
The Sizewell Stays Advantage
We take the hassle out of the conversion process. We can advise on furniture packages, arrange professional photography, and start marketing your property to our network of corporate clients immediately. Our management service means you can earn premium income without the day-to-day workload.
Considering converting your property? Speak to our team for honest, no-obligation advice on whether letting to contractors is right for your property.
