The Beehive – Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to The Beehive Business Centre. Whether you're a freelancer, small business owner or an established company looking for a professional workspace, we've answered some of the most common questions about our dedicated desk memberships below.

Membership & Pricing

What is a dedicated desk membership?

A dedicated desk membership gives you your own allocated workstation within The Beehive Business Centre, along with access to shared facilities, internet connectivity and our business membership programme. It's an ideal solution for businesses looking for a consistent, professional place to work without renting an entire office.

How much does a dedicated desk cost?

We offer three membership options, allowing you to choose the commitment that best suits your business:

All prices are starting rates and exclude VAT where applicable.

Is there a deposit?

Yes. A refundable deposit equivalent to one month's initial membership fee is required before your membership begins. This is held as security against unpaid fees, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and other outstanding charges.

Are there any annual price increases?

Membership fees are reviewed annually in line with the Consumer Prices Index (CPI). Any increase is capped at 5% in a 12-month period, and we'll notify you in writing before a revised fee takes effect.

How do I pay for my membership?

Membership fees are collected monthly in advance by Direct Debit, making payments straightforward and convenient. Alternative payment arrangements may be agreed in writing.

Facilities & Services

What is included in my membership?

Your dedicated desk membership includes:

• Your own allocated workstation

• Access to shared business-centre facilities

• Internet connectivity

• Participation in The Beehive's business membership programme

Additional facilities and services may be available at an extra cost.

What are the opening hours?

Standard member access hours are 7am to 7pm, unless different arrangements are specified in your membership agreement.

Is internet access included?

Yes. Internet connectivity is included with your membership, allowing you to work and stay connected throughout the day.

Can I book meeting or training rooms?

Meeting and training rooms are available as additional chargeable services, providing professional spaces for meetings, presentations and business activities.

Are printing and stationery services available?

Yes. The Beehive offers additional business services, including printing, photocopying, scanning, document finishing and a range of stationery and office supplies. These services are charged separately.

Can I receive business post and parcels?

Mail, parcel and registered-office services are available as optional extras, subject to the relevant service arrangements and charges.

Is storage available?

Additional storage and locker facilities may be available for an extra charge.

Business Support & Networking

Does The Beehive offer business support?

Yes. One of the benefits of joining The Beehive is access to our developing business membership programme.

We aim to organise useful events and sessions featuring professionals such as accountants, solicitors, bankers, business advisers and entrepreneurs.

These opportunities are designed to help members develop their businesses, share ideas and build valuable professional connections. Events and speakers will vary according to availability and demand.

Can I network with other businesses?

The Beehive provides a shared professional environment where independent businesses and entrepreneurs work alongside one another, creating opportunities to meet, connect and develop professional relationships.

Membership Terms & Cancellation

How long do I need to commit?

You can choose between a 12-month, 36-month or 60-month minimum membership term. Longer commitments benefit from lower starting monthly fees.

How much notice do I need to give?

The required written notice depends on your chosen membership:

Notice can be given before the end of your minimum term, but your membership cannot normally end before that term has been completed.

Can I leave before my membership ends?

Our memberships are designed around fixed minimum terms, so early cancellation is not automatically available.

However, we understand that business circumstances can change. Early release may be considered at The Beehive's discretion and must be agreed in writing.

Where early release is approved, your membership charges will be recalculated using the standard rate appropriate to the time you have actually occupied your desk. Any difference in fees, applicable notice-period charges and other outstanding amounts will need to be settled.

What happens when my minimum membership term ends?

You can give the required notice to finish your membership at the end of your agreed term.

Alternatively, if you continue using your workspace with our agreement and do not sign a new fixed-term membership, your membership will move to a monthly arrangement at the then-current 12-month membership rate.

This arrangement can be ended by either party with one month's written notice.

Will my deposit be returned?

Yes. Provided your account is fully settled, your workspace has been vacated and all access credentials and other Beehive property have been returned, the undisputed balance of your deposit will normally be refunded within 14 days.

Using Your Workspace

Can I share my dedicated desk with someone else?

Your desk is allocated to the authorised users listed in your membership agreement. It cannot be shared, transferred or used by another business without prior written consent.

Can I use my desk for any type of business?

The Beehive is intended for lawful office and business activities approved by the centre. Certain activities, including residential use, hazardous operations and businesses requiring unrestricted public retail access, are not permitted without appropriate approval.

Can my desk be moved?

Your dedicated desk will be allocated when you join. Occasionally, operational requirements, maintenance or safety considerations may mean we need to relocate you to a substantially equivalent workstation within the same centre. We will provide reasonable notice where this is necessary.

Do I need business insurance?

Members are advised to maintain suitable insurance for their business activities, equipment and liabilities. Personal business equipment remains the member's responsibility, subject to applicable legal protections.

Are there rules for using shared facilities?

Yes. All members are expected to follow our Centre Rules, which help maintain a safe, secure and professional working environment. These cover matters such as visitors, noise, security, shared facilities and general conduct.

Location & Getting Started

Where is The Beehive Business Centre?

You'll find us at:

The Beehive Business Centre
243 Eltham High Street
London
SE9 1TX

How do I become a member?

Once you've chosen your preferred membership term, we'll arrange your membership agreement, confirm your allocated desk and agree your start date.

You'll need to provide your business details, authorised users and payment information before your membership begins.

Where can I find the full membership terms?

Our Business Membership & Dedicated Desk Agreement sets out the complete terms of membership, including payment obligations, notice periods, early release arrangements and the use of shared facilities.

We recommend reviewing the full agreement before joining.

Ready to Join The Beehive?

Whether you're looking for a dedicated workspace for the next year or a longer-term base for your business, The Beehive offers flexible membership choices, professional facilities and opportunities to connect with other businesses.

Get in touch with The Beehive to discuss availability and find the right membership for you.