Real-life MMD: Should I charge my sister's colleague for bed & board?

Former_MSE_Debs

Money Moral Dilemma: Should I charge my sister's colleague for bed & board?

My sister's got a week's work near where I live, so I've invited her to stay with me, completely free. But she's asked if one of her colleagues can stay too. Not wanting to disappoint, I agreed. Bed and board for two is going to cost a fair amount and while I'm happy to cover it for my sister, I'm not so happy about shelling out for her colleague. Should I ask her colleague for a contribution to the cost or would that be awkward for all involved?

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moohic

Er, yes is the simple answer. Generally companies have an overnight allowance for employees staying at friends or family houses to allow for a thank you/food/effort etc. In my experience it's usually been around £25-30 a night.

If they're not getting an allowance, I'd expect them to offer to at least take you out for a meal somewhere to say thank you, but yes, I would ask for a contribution of around that amount. It's inconveniencing you, especially as it includes someone you don't even know.

DigForVictory

Both sis & mate have work. They can pay Something. You in your generosity to sis have said not to worry, but it's still two lots more food, laundry etc. Definitely, charge.

Maybe check with sis what the "friends & family" accom rate for subsistence is, but even if they get *nothing* for accom, they have work &, one presumes, income.

michele-p

Personally I'd say no to charging. But maybe ask them to go thirds on the food shopping for the week if they plan to eat at yours. They shouldn't need any laundry doing for a week really.

harz99

michele-p wrote: »

They shouldn't need any laundry doing for a week really.

Sheets/Towels/Pillowcases etc?

Techno

And increased fuel bills from showers/baths etc and maybe heating rooms which aren't usually used - it all adds up. If it was my sister I would say that a contribution to costs would be gratefully received particularly if they can claim an overnight allowance.

barbara22

Yes. At the very least for food!

KxMx

Helping out family is one thing but letting someone else stay for free is another matter.

oldtrout

I personally wouldn't mind about the (minimal) increase in household bills, but the cost of food/drink is completely different.

Your sister has now 'invited' a colleague and therefore the original offer of a free week shouldn't be expected.

Talk to her now (before they arrive!!) and see what she thinks. All three of you could go food/drink shopping when they arrive. I think the two of them should pay for it all ... but split it 3 ways if they're short of money.

Treat your sister to a free stay when she comes to visit another time.

roy_c

I think the fact that you agreed to it beforehand you need to swallow it and see if something is volunteered which I'm sure something will in some form or another. Also it is a learning curve for yourself. If you charge now I think it will put your sister in an embarrassing situation.

pennypinchUK

Talk to your sister privately, tell her you trust her friend will make a contribution and leave it to her to deal with it. Surely there's no embarrassment if it's done quietly and respectfully. Most guests will make a gesture, whether it's cash, a meal out or a gift.