What’s Included in Serviced Office Costs?
By Roy Fiszer-Watson |
One of the most common questions I get from business owners is this: what’s included in serviced office costs? I remember when I first helped a client transition from a long-term lease into a serviced space—they couldn’t believe how much was already covered. But clarity is key. Because every provider is different, understanding what’s actually in the package (and what’s not) helps avoid surprises and keeps your budget in check.
Understanding What’s Included in Serviced Office Costs
The beauty of serviced offices is that many of the things you’d typically pay for separately are bundled into a single monthly rate. Still, no two spaces are the same, so knowing what’s usually included can make a big difference when comparing offers.
Typical Inclusions in Serviced Office Costs
Service | Usually Included? | Notes |
---|---|---|
Rent & Business Rates | ✔️ | Standard across most providers |
Utilities (Electric, Water, Heating) | ✔️ | Fully covered |
Wi-Fi & Internet | ✔️ (basic) | Premium speeds may cost extra |
Cleaning Services | ✔️ | Usually daily or weekly |
Reception Services | ✔️ | Meet & greet, parcel handling |
Maintenance & Repairs | ✔️ | Managed by the provider |
Furniture | ✔️ | Desks, chairs, storage |
Security & Access | ✔️ | Often 24/7 access |
Services Sometimes Included (Check the Fine Print)
- Meeting Room Access: Often free for a set number of hours per month, then charged.
- Printing & Scanning: Limited quota free; high usage is billed.
- Mail Handling & Forwarding: Usually basic mail included; forwarding may incur fees.
- Telephone Services: Numbers and voicemail can be included, but usage is often extra.
Common Inclusions in Serviced Office Costs

Infographic showing what’s typically included in a standard serviced office package.
What’s Not Typically Included in Serviced Office Costs
- Business insurance (you’ll need your own cover)
- Custom branding or signage
- Additional IT support or setup
- Overuse of meeting rooms or print quotas
- Parking (unless explicitly stated)
Why This Matters for Budgeting
I once worked with a fintech start-up in London who initially chose a serviced space based on the base price alone. They didn’t ask about printing fees or meeting room usage—and within three months, their bill had grown by 20%. When we helped them move into an all-inclusive space, their spend became predictable—and their stress levels dropped.
Compare Spaces Easily
If you’re weighing options, make sure to ask every provider for a full cost breakdown. Or better yet, let us do the comparison for you. We’ll show you what’s included and help you sidestep hidden costs.
Real Costs Breakdown: Central London Example
Service | Cost if Not Included |
---|---|
Extra Internet Bandwidth | £50/month |
4 hours of Meeting Room Use | £120/month |
Mail Forwarding | £25/month |
Print Quota (250 pages) | £20/month |
Business Insurance | £30–£80/month |
If these costs aren’t included, they can add up fast. That’s why it’s so important to fully understand what’s included in serviced office costs—before you sign.
Final Thoughts: Transparency is Everything
In my experience, the happiest clients are the ones who know exactly what they’re getting. Whether it’s a basic package or a luxury all-in-one, what matters most is transparency. And that’s exactly what we offer at Serviced Office Portal. Our listings are clear, honest, and built around what you need.
Ready to find an office that’s truly all-in? Explore available offices in London or chat with our team for a customised list.