Managing temporary housing for construction workers

With construction booming, more crews are traveling to job sites for weeks or even months at a time. But finding safe, affordable, and comfortable temporary housing for construction workers isn’t always easy. Rising costs and complex project schedules make it harder to book the right accommodations. 

That’s why many managers are rethinking how they handle team housing. The right setup can reduce costs, boost morale, and keep projects on track. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common temporary housing options for construction workers and share practical tips for planning ahead, managing budgets, and supporting your crews wherever the job takes them.

What’s temporary housing, and how does it work?

Temporary housing refers to short-term accommodations for workers who need to stay away from home for extended periods. In construction, this can include hotel stays, rented apartments, or workforce housing camps near the job site.

The goal is to provide housing that feels as close to “home” as possible—safe, clean, comfortable, and functional. It should also align with the project’s budget and schedule while minimizing commute time to help crews stay rested and ready to work.

Temporary housing options for construction workers

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for crew housing. The best option depends on factors like crew size, budget, project length, location, and worker preferences. Here are four common housing setups many construction companies use.

Workforce housing camps

Ideal for large or remote projects, these dedicated camps house crews close to the job site. They’re usually furnished and include essentials like kitchens, laundry, dining areas, and sometimes even recreation spaces. Camps are often used in oil, gas, mining, or infrastructure builds.

Extended-stay hotels

A great fit for smaller crews or urban projects, extended-stay hotels offer long-stay rates and amenities like kitchenettes, free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and laundry. They’re more comfortable than standard hotel rooms and reduce the hassle of frequent check-ins.

Short-term rentals

Furnished apartments or houses offer more space and privacy—ideal for longer assignments or workers traveling with family. Location is key: Aim for rentals close to the site to cut commute time and costs.

On-site housing options

For remote locations, companies may build or lease portable cabins, trailers, or modular units on-site. This eliminates commuting, saves fuel, and allows for faster start times and flexibility when schedules shift.

4 tips for booking temporary housing for construction workers

Planning ahead makes crew housing more efficient and budget-friendly. Here are four ways to simplify the process.

1. Plan early and assess project duration

Start looking for housing solutions as soon as the project is confirmed. For stays longer than a month, extended-stay hotels or rentals are often more cost-effective than standard hotel rooms. Be sure to factor in crew size, rotation schedules, and location.

2. Partner with workforce housing providers

For rural or high-demand areas, partnering with a housing provider can streamline group booking. These partners specialize in construction and industrial housing and often handle cleaning, meals, and utilities.

3. Use a travel management platform

A platform like Engine makes it easy to compare options, manage spending, and track reservations—all in one place. You can filter by distance to the job site or trade conference, required amenities, and company travel policies. It also lets you automate invoices and access discounts for bulk bookings.

4. Prioritize safety, comfort, and compliance

Safe, code-compliant housing is essential—especially on long projects. Make sure accommodations meet local building codes and OSHA standards. Shared spaces should be clean, secure, and well-maintained, particularly when expensive equipment is stored nearby.

Don’t underestimate comfort, either. Amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry, and kitchen access can make a big difference for crews spending weeks away from home. These small touches help boost morale and reduce turnover.

Manage temporary housing for your construction crew with Engine

Keeping your crew comfortable on the road shouldn’t be a hassle. The right housing helps workers stay focused, productive, and ready to get the job done.

Engine makes it easy to compare housing options, book fully furnished stays, and manage costs with automated tools. And thanks to group lodging support and direct billing, you can house large crews without the paperwork headache.

Ready to simplify crew housing and reduce costs? Explore Engine’s smart housing solutions and make your next construction project run smoother.

FAQs

How can I reduce disputes about crew housing choices?

Start with clear communication. Share housing options with your crew before booking and get input from senior crew leaders on location and amenities. Once booked, provide detailed check-in instructions, house rules, and a contact for issues. For longer stays, schedule regular check-ins to catch problems—like maintenance or safety concerns—before they escalate.

Are there tax considerations for temporary crew housing?

Yes—housing costs for construction crews can have tax implications. Depending on local laws and the distance from a worker’s primary residence, lodging costs may count as a business expense or a taxable benefit. If you're offering a per diem, keep detailed records and receipts. Consult a tax advisor familiar with construction to ensure compliance and maximize deductions. Good documentation can also help if you're audited.

What should I include in a crew housing policy?

A housing policy should outline who qualifies for company-paid lodging, what’s covered, and any spending limits. Include behavioral expectations (like quiet hours and shared space conduct), what to do if something breaks, and how to report safety concerns. Make the policy easy to access, and be sure to update it regularly.