What is the difference between a serviced apartment and private apartment?

Unserviced apartments, private rentals and vacation rentals or holiday homes are sometimes unpredictable and cannot offer the same levels of service, security, amenities and convenience as fully serviced apartments as they are often let by unverified private landlords.

Here are the main differences:

 

Serviced Apartments

• Suitable for short stays, extended stays or long term rentals
• Fully furnished with separate living space (except studios)
• Washing machines available
• Housekeeping services with a linen and towel change could vary from daily to weekly
• A reception, concierge or on-site staff may be present
• Secure entry system but on-site security staff not always present
• Fully compliant with local health and safety regulations
• Fire safety and evacuation procedures in place
• Full self-catering facilities with dining table, hob, microwave, fridge, kettle, sink and more. (check listing)
• Rates include local taxes and utilities
• Free wireless internet
• Suitable for sharing professionals, families or groups
• 24/7 emergency assistance and maintainence support comes as standard
• Lifts may not be present
• Interiors may vary across the different units
• More storage space available compared to hotel rooms
• Extra beds, baby cots, high chairs can be accommodated in most apartments
• Accessible and wheelchair friendly units available
• Cancellation notice varies from 24 hours to 30 days and cancellation charges may apply
• A security deposit may be taken on arrival to cover against incidentals
• VAT discounts may be available and some properties are VAT exempt
• Professionally managed by hospitality companies
• Available as serviced accommodation 365 days of the year

Unserviced Apartments
(including Private Rentals/Holiday Homes)

• Suitable for short stays, extended stays or long term rentals
• Fully furnished with separate living space (except studios)
• Washing machines may not be available
• No housekeeping or cleaning services
• No on-site staff
• Security is usually lacking
• Not regulated in terms of health and safety
• Usually no fire safety in place
• Full self-catering facilities with dining table, hob, microwave, fridge, kettle, sink and more.
• Rates may or may not include local taxes and utilities
• Rates may or may not include wireless internet
• Suitable for sharing professionals, families or groups
• No emergency assistance or maintainence support
• Lifts may not be present
• Interiors will reflect host's individual style and have their belongings present.
• More storage space available compared to hotel rooms however cupboards may be filled with host's persona belongings.
• Extra beds, baby cots, high chairs usually not available
• Usually not accessible or wheelchair friendly
• Cancellation notice varies from 24 hours to 30 days and cancellation charges may apply
• A security deposit may be taken on arrival to cover against incidentals
• Usually no VAT applies to these properties
• Managed by private individuals and private landlords
• May be a second home or not be available consistently throughout the year depending on the host