In a house in multiple occupation (HMO), shared spaces can quickly become a source of tension between tenants — and a headache for landlords. A regular cleaning arrangement for communal areas helps keep the property in good condition and tenants happy.
General information only — check your local council’s HMO licensing conditions and current regulations for your specific obligations.
Why communal cleaning matters in HMOs
- HMO managers have duties to keep common parts in a clean and safe condition
- Shared kitchens and bathrooms get heavy use from several people
- Nobody “owns” the mess, so cleaning often gets skipped
- A clean property is easier to let and keeps good tenants longer
What to include
- Shared kitchens — worktops, hob, sink, appliance exteriors, floors and bins
- Shared bathrooms — toilets, showers, basins, descaling and floors
- Hallways and stairs — vacuuming, handrails, light switches and door handles
- Entrances — doors, mats and post areas
How often?
For most HMOs, a weekly or fortnightly professional clean of communal areas works well, alongside a tenant cleaning rota for day-to-day tidying.
Between tenancies
When a room becomes vacant, an end of tenancy clean of the room — and a refresh of the shared spaces — makes it ready for the next tenant.
Regular communal area cleaning starts from £75. See commercial and communal cleaning.