The COVID-19 pandemic has emptied hotels.

Occupancy rates have plummeted. Owners and operators are laying off staff and closing hotels.

But in the midst of a crisis, need and opportunity meet. Cities across the country, desperate for beds to house first responders, trained medical personnel, or infected patients that just need a place to self-isolate, are turning to these same hotels for accommodation. The hotel industry is responding and providing sanctuary in the time of crisis.

But these are no ordinary times and these are no ordinary agreements. The following includes some of the key issues for hotel owners and operators to consider before opening their doors as sanctuary housing...