Rethinking alternative accommodation during major incidents

The focus is increasingly on maintaining stability, minimising disruption and supporting longer-term recovery.

Moving beyond a one-size-fits-all response

Major incidents bring into sharp focus the complexity of resident needs. Residents may have mobility requirements, rely on local services, or have strong ties to schools, work and community networks.

As a result, suitability is now viewed more broadly. A property may be technically appropriate but not workable in practice. Factors such as accessibility, location and mental wellbeing are becoming central to decision-making.

There is growing recognition that early and accurate information is critical. Capturing resident details, vulnerabilities and location preferences at the outset allows accommodation to be matched more effectively, reducing the need for repeat moves and avoiding unnecessary disruption.

The role of coordination and real-time data

One of the key lessons from recent major incidents is the importance of early coordination between housing providers, landlords, managing agents, construction partners and all those responsible for the building and its residents.

Where structured data is gathered quickly and shared effectively across these stakeholders, placements can be timelier and more appropriate. In contrast, incomplete information often leads to reactive decisions, increased costs and a higher risk of complaints.

Coordinated response models, including dedicated incident support teams, are becoming a central part of major incident management. These teams provide a single point of coordination, enabling high volumes of information to be managed in real time while maintaining oversight of both resident needs and accommodation availability.

Alongside this, there is increasing awareness that sourcing accommodation is only part of the solution. Supporting residents through the physical relocation process is equally important. This includes ensuring belongings are safely transported to temporary accommodation or securely stored where required, as well as providing practical support such as transport to ensure residents can access essential services and remain connected to their local area.

This more holistic, managed approach is increasingly being treated as standard practice in large-scale incidents, helping to reduce disruption and improve coordination across all parties involved.

Expanding the range of solutions

The range of accommodation options used during major incidents continues to broaden. Hotels still play a role in the immediate response but are rarely suitable beyond the initial phase.

For short, medium and longer-term placements, serviced apartments are increasingly used as a primary solution, offering a stable, self-contained and ‘home from home’ environment for residents.

Additional options may include short to medium-term rental properties, depending on availability and resident requirements. The focus is on selecting accommodation that supports continuity of daily life and reduces the need for multiple moves over the course of the incident.

ICAB PODs are a stay-at-home solution also gaining traction where relocation is not practical or desirable. Modular kitchen, bathroom and living PODs enable residents to remain in their homes during disruption, providing essential facilities while restoration or planned works are completed. This can be particularly important for those with disabilities, pets or strong ties to their property. PODs help minimise disruption, can be deployed quickly and often offer a more cost-effective alternative to temporary accommodation, either removing the need to relocate entirely or serving as a short-term solution while longer-term arrangements are made.

Supporting residents through prolonged disruption

Displacement following a major incident can last months rather than weeks, placing sustained pressure on residents. This has led to greater emphasis on clear communication; minimising repeat moves and maintaining proximity to existing communities.

Providing residents with appropriate options, rather than a single default placement, is increasingly seen as good practice. A structured approach to accommodation planning not only improves the resident experience but also supports more efficient delivery of the wider recovery programme.

Delivering better outcomes

It is becoming increasingly clear that outcomes are not defined solely by cost. Poorly matched accommodation can lead to repeat relocations, extended timelines and increased dissatisfaction.

Conversely, early intervention and more considered decision-making often result in smoother recovery, reduced disruption and better overall outcomes for residents and providers alike.

A more balanced approach

Alternative accommodation is no longer simply a logistical requirement during major incidents. It is a central part of response and recovery.

The most effective approaches balance speed, flexibility and an understanding of individual circumstances. As expectations continue to rise, the ability to deliver appropriate, stable solutions will remain key to successful incident management.

This approach reflects wider changes in how major incidents are being managed across the sector, with greater emphasis on coordination, resident support and practical delivery on the ground.

Tim Goodman, Managing Director ICAB.