There's no single price for residential valet, because no two buildings need the same coverage. What you pay is driven mostly by how many hours of coverage you need and how many attendants each hour requires. Here's how to think about it.
How valet is usually priced
Residential valet is most often priced per attendant hour, and billed monthly under a service contract. Some buildings fund valet through association dues; others charge residents a fee or rely partly on tips. Ask every vendor to quote the same coverage so you can compare like with like.
The factors that set the price
- Coverage hours. A post staffed around the clock is 168 hours a week, which takes more than four full-time attendants once days off are covered. Limiting coverage to peak hours changes the cost dramatically.
- Attendants per shift. Buildings with large garages, long walks to parking, or heavy morning and evening peaks need more than one attendant at busy times to keep waits short.
- Garage layout. The farther and more complex the drive from the entrance to the parking space, the longer each retrieval takes, and the more staff you need for the same level of service.
- Services included. Guest parking, package help, front-desk coverage, and concierge duties all affect staffing.
- Insurance requirements. Higher limits or additional coverages required by your association add cost, but protect the building.
- Technology and supervision. Digital car requests, vehicle photo records, scheduling, and management oversight are part of what separates a professional operation from a low bid.
How to compare proposals
- Give every vendor the same coverage schedule and ask for a cost per covered hour.
- Confirm what's included: insurance, supervision, uniforms, technology, and reporting.
- Ask how tips are handled and whether residents are expected to tip.
- Check how the vendor covers call-outs and holidays, and whether that costs extra.
- Request a certificate of insurance and references from similar buildings.
Getting an accurate number
The fastest way to get a real price is an on-site assessment of your entrance, garage, and peak times. Intrak offers a complimentary valet assessment and sends a proposal built for your building. Learn more about our condo and HOA valet service.