Why Regular Cleaning Is Essential for HMO Properties in London

Introduction: The Rise of HMOs in London 

London’s rental market is one of the most competitive and dynamic in the UK. With high property prices and a constant demand for affordable accommodation, Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have become an increasingly popular option for both tenants and landlords. These shared properties offer flexibility, lower rent, and efficient use of space, particularly for students, young professionals, and transient workers. 

However, while HMOs are practical and profitable, they come with their own unique set of challenges. Chief among them? Cleanliness. 

Regular, professional cleaning isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. It plays a crucial role in maintaining legal compliance, protecting tenant health, preserving property value, and improving overall tenant experience. In this blog, we explore why regular cleaning is essential for HMO properties in London and how landlords can benefit from making it a top priority. 

1. Legal Responsibilities: Cleanliness Is a Requirement, Not an Option 

Landlords of HMO properties have legal obligations under the Housing Act 2004 and The Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006. These regulations explicitly state that landlords must: 

• Keep common areas (hallways, kitchens, bathrooms, lounges) in good and clean repair. 

• Ensure shared facilities are in a safe, working condition. 

• Maintain fire safety equipment and escape routes in a tidy and accessible manner. 

Neglecting regular cleaning can lead to fines, legal action, or even license revocation. Routine cleaning ensures that the property stays compliant, safe, and prepared for inspections by the local council or environmental health officers. 

2. Health and Hygiene: Protecting Tenants and Preventing Issues 

HMOs often house 3 or more unrelated individuals sharing kitchens, bathrooms, and communal areas. Without proper cleaning, these spaces can quickly become breeding grounds for: 

• Bacteria and viruses (especially in kitchens and bathrooms). 

• Mould from excess moisture and poor ventilation. 

• Dust mites, allergens, and respiratory triggers. 

• Pest infestations, such as cockroaches, mice, or bed bugs. 

These problems not only jeopardize tenant health but can lead to emergency callouts, complaints, and costly treatments. By investing in regular cleaning, landlords can significantly reduce health risks, avoid tenant disputes, and ensure a healthy living environment. 

3. Enhancing Tenant Satisfaction and Reducing Turnover 

Cleanliness directly affects tenant happiness and retention. A clean, fresh-smelling property makes tenants feel valued, respected, and comfortable. This emotional connection results in: 

• Longer tenancies. 

• Fewer complaints. 

• Better reviews and word-of-mouth referrals. 

• More responsible behavior (tenants are more likely to keep things tidy when starting from a clean baseline). 

On the other hand, neglecting cleaning leads to quicker dissatisfaction, faster turnover, and a reputation that can damage your ability to attract high-quality tenants. 

4. Maintaining and Protecting Property Value 

Over time, dirt and neglect cause real damage to fixtures, flooring, appliances, and paintwork. Deep-set grime can permanently stain surfaces, while unreported maintenance issues (like a leaking pipe) can cause structural damage. 

Regular cleaning helps by: 

• Preventing wear and tear from becoming irreparable. 

• Spotting early signs of damage or disrepair. 

• Prolonging the life of fixtures, fittings, and flooring. 

• Keeping the property looking modern and attractive to prospective tenants. 

Think of it as preventative maintenance—cleaning saves you far more in the long run than it costs. 

5. Meeting Inspection and Licensing Standards 

In many London boroughs, landlords must obtain HMO licenses, particularly for large HMOs. Councils conduct property inspections to ensure that safety and cleanliness standards are being met. 

A poorly maintained property can result in: 

• Failing inspections. 

• Requiring additional work before receiving/renewing a license. 

• Possible enforcement notices or fines. 

Keeping your HMO professionally clean helps ensure you're always inspection ready. 

6. First Impressions Matter: Attracting the Right Tenants 

Imagine walking into a property for the first time—dusty skirting boards, grimy ovens, mildew in the bathroom. Now imagine a property that smells fresh, looks polished, and is spotless throughout. Which would you choose? 

In a competitive market like London, the condition of your property can be the make-or-break factor when tenants are choosing where to live. Cleanliness helps you: 

• Rent properties faster. 

• Attract higher-quality tenants. 

• Justify better rental rates. 

• Stand out in listings and viewing. 

7. Encouraging Respect and Responsibility from Tenants 

Providing a well-cleaned, well-maintained space encourages tenants to respect the property. It sets a standard from day one. If tenants move into a dirty property, they're less likely to clean up after themselves or report issues quickly. 

Clean common areas foster shared responsibility. You can even include cleaning checklists or rotating responsibilities among tenants to keep things tidy between professional visits. 

8. Reducing Conflicts in Shared Living Spaces 

In shared housing, one of the most common sources of tension is cleanliness. Disagreements over whose turn it is to clean, or resentment toward messier housemates, can lead to an uncomfortable atmosphere and even early lease breaks. 

By hiring a regular cleaning service for common areas, landlords: 

• Remove cleaning as a point of conflict. 

• Create a more harmonious living environment. 

• Reduce wear-and-tear from inconsistent or incorrect cleaning methods. 

It’s a win-win for everyone involved. 

9. Professional Cleaning vs. Tenant Responsibility 

Many landlords assume tenants will take responsibility for cleaning, especially in student HMOs or budget rentals. Relying solely on tenants to clean can lead to: 

• Uneven cleaning standards. 

• Missed deep-cleaning areas. 

• Delayed maintenance reporting. 

• Accumulated grime between tenancies. 

Professional cleaning services bring: 

• Consistency—cleaning is done on a regular schedule. 

• Expertise—trained staff know how to clean to industry standards. 

• Efficiency—jobs get done quickly and thoroughly. 

• Accountability—cleaners can report damage, wear, or problems early. 

10. The Cost-Effective Choice for Landlords 

Yes, hiring a cleaning service has a monthly cost—but it’s an investment, not an expense. Here’s why: 

• Avoid costly repairs caused by neglect. 

• Prevent pest infestations and professional extermination costs. 

• Reduce void periods between tenancies. 

• Increase tenant satisfaction, reducing marketing and onboarding costs. 

• Boost property value and rent potential. 

In fact, many landlords build the cost into rent or operating budgets, making it a manageable, sustainable service that pays off over time. 

11. Recommended Cleaning Frequency for HMOs 

The frequency of cleaning depends on the size of the property and number of tenants, but here’s a general guideline: 

Area	Recommended Cleaning Schedule
Kitchens	1–2 times per week
Bathrooms	1–2 times per week
Hallways & Common Areas	Weekly
Deep Clean (Full Property)	Every 3–6 months
End of Tenancy Clean	Between every tenant

A professional cleaning company can assess your property and create a custom schedule that fits your needs and budget. 

12. Choosing the Right Cleaning Service for Your HMO 

Look for a cleaning provider who: 

• Specialises in HMO or rental property cleaning. 

• It has insurance and trained staff. 

• Provides checklists and reports after each visit. 

• Can handle deep cleans and end-of-tenancy services. 

• Is familiar with HMO compliance and local council standards. 

Reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth recommendations are invaluable when choosing the right service. 

Conclusion: Clean Properties, Happy Tenants, Better Business 

In the bustling rental scene of London, HMO properties play a vital role in offering affordable, flexible housing. But with great opportunity comes great responsibility. 

Regular cleaning is not optional—it’s the foundation of a successful, compliant, and profitable HMO. It protects your tenants, preserves your investment, and provides a competitive edge in the market. Whether you're a hands-on landlord or work with a letting agent, incorporating professional cleaning into your property management routine is one of the smartest decisions you can make. 

Call to Action: Ready to Improve Your HMO's Cleanliness? 

If you're a landlord or property manager in London, consider investing in a reliable, professional cleaning service that understands HMO requirements. Your tenants will thank you—and so will your bottom line.