If you run a boutique hotel, inn, or bed and breakfast, there are times when you need a helping hand. Maybe someone’s on vacation, you’re short-staffed, or you’ve got a big event coming up. Instead of closing your doors during these periods, hiring an interim innkeeper offers a practical solution that keeps your property open and operating smoothly. By bringing in a professional to manage daily operations, you can avoid lost income and ensure a continuous revenue stream and client satisfaction, even when you or your regular staff are unavailable. But what does it actually cost to bring one on board? Let’s break it down.
Daily Rates
Interim innkeepers are independent contractors, so their rates can vary depending on their experience, your location, and what you need them to do. The typical starting rate is around $200 per day, and generally includes the following services:
- Planning, serving, and cleaning up breakfast for guests
- Responding to guest inquiries and managing reservations by phone, email, text, or social media
- Welcoming guests and handling check-ins and check-outs
- Offering concierge services to make guests’ stay enjoyable
- Overseeing staff, such as housekeepers and servers
This rate can increase depending on whether you hire a single innkeeper or a couple and any additional responsibilities. Services such as housekeeping, laundry, event organization, pet sitting, or specialty services, may incur extra fees, which should be spelled out in your agreement.
Travel Expenses
Most interim innkeepers will charge for travel to and from your property. This could be based on mileage or actual costs like airfare, lodging, or rental cars. Sometimes, if they’re already in your area for another job, they might skip the travel fees, but that’s something you’ll want to discuss up front.
Additional Costs
If you need help with things like pet care, property maintenance (think gardening, lawn care, pool care), or event management, there may be extra charges. Make sure to talk about these tasks during the interview so everyone’s clear on what’s expected and what it will cost. Specialized services usually mean higher rates.
Contracts and Deposits
A written agreement is a must. Most interim innkeepers will provide a contract for you to review and sign, and you’ll probably need to pay a deposit to lock in their services. Take the time to read the contract carefully so you know exactly what you’re getting and what you’re paying for.
Insurance Considerations
Some interim innkeepers have their own liability insurance, but coverage can vary. To be safe, it’s a good idea to add interim coverage to your own insurance policy. That way, everyone’s protected if something unexpected happens.
Tips for Budgeting
- Define Your Needs: Figure out exactly what you need, including any special services like event management or pet care.
- Discuss Rates and Fees: Be upfront about your expectations and negotiate rates before you commit.
- Review Contracts: Make sure all costs and services are clearly outlined in the agreement.
- Plan for Travel Expenses: Talk about travel costs ahead of time and see if there are ways to keep them reasonable.
- Communicate Expectations: Make sure everyone knows what’s expected so there are no surprises.
Conclusion
Hiring an interim innkeeper can help keep your property running smoothly when you need it most. Costs can vary, but being clear and upfront about your needs and expectations will help you find the right fit. For more information, check out the Interim Innkeepers Network website and browse member profiles to find someone who matches your needs.