7th January 2020
Q: How do I ensure the shared spaces in my HMO are kept clean?
A: If you have an HMO you may know the struggle of keeping the common areas in good condition, as whenever you find them in poor condition, you will find that the mess is always someone else’s! Nobody will accept responsibility.
Now, unless you have amazing tenants that look after the shared areas without being asked to, which is not very common, the best way to deal with this situation is to make them your responsibility from the very start.
We would recommend that you have the property cleaned weekly (professional cleaner recommended), on the same day each week. You should ask the cleaner to feedback the condition of the property to you every week. We would also suggest that you have a sign off sheet which your cleaner should sign at the property after each visit, so you know they have been and what areas have been cleaned. This would also serve as a great visual reminder for the tenants to keep these areas clean.
Always ensure your property is kept to a high standard of cleanliness, as you want to avoid rats or mice making themselves at home; otherwise you will have a whole new problem to contend with.
If you need any other HMO or BTL property guidance, please do get in touch.
