Furnished corporate apartments promise flexibility: show up with a suitcase, plug in your laptop, and focus on the job. The tradeoff is a contract that may include corporate-style clauses you would not see in a typical year-long lease. Use this checklist to surface issues before you commit.
What is included in “furnished”?
Confirm whether housewares, linens, cleaning supplies, and Wi-Fi equipment are included or billed separately. Ask for photos of the exact unit class you are booking, not just a model unit. If something is missing on move-in, you want a written process for replacement or credit.
Utilities and caps
Are electricity, gas, water, and internet bundled into rent? If there is a utility allowance, ask what happens when you exceed it — especially in summer or winter peaks. Clarify whether the provider resets thermostats remotely.
Housekeeping and maintenance
Some corporate leases include periodic cleaning; others charge per visit. Know how to request maintenance after hours and whether there is a single point of contact for emergencies.
Length, renewal, and early termination
Corporate housing often prices in shorter terms. Ask about notice periods for both sides, fees for breaking the lease early, and whether your employer can extend the stay without repricing. If the assignment ends sooner than expected, you will want a clear exit number in writing.
Insurance and liability
Confirm whether renters insurance is required, whether the operator carries master policies, and what is excluded (e.g., jewelry, electronics over a cap). Your employer may have a corporate policy that overlaps — but do not assume it covers your personal belongings.