By Why HMOs Face Stricter Cleaning Standards
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Edinburgh are subject to more frequent inspections than standard rental properties. Landlords must comply with both local council HMO licence conditions and Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) requirements.
That means when tenants move out, cleanliness is more than just cosmetic — it’s part of compliance. Failing to meet these standards risks not only deposit disputes but also licence issues.
HMO Cleaning Standards Landlords Should Expect
HMO inspectors and letting agents look for a professional level clean across all communal and private areas. Below is a room-by-room breakdown.
1. Kitchens (High-Risk Area)
- Ovens, hobs, and extractor fans degreased
- Fridges and freezers emptied, defrosted, and sanitised
- Cupboards and worktops wiped inside & out
- Sinks, splashbacks, and tiles disinfected
- Floors mopped, skirtings dusted
Inspector focus: Hygiene and food safety.
2. Bathrooms & Toilets
- Limescale removed from taps, shower heads, and tiles
- Toilets, sinks, and showers disinfected
- Grout scrubbed and mould treated
- Mirrors, screens, and chrome polished
Inspector focus: Limescale-free fittings, no mould growth.
3. Communal Living Areas
- Carpets vacuumed and stained areas treated
- Hard floors cleaned and mopped
- Skirtings, switches, and handles wiped
- Furniture dusted and cleaned
- Cobwebs removed
Inspector focus: General cleanliness and tenant safety.
4. Bedrooms
- Carpets vacuumed or shampooed
- Wardrobes, drawers, and desks wiped
- Windows and mirrors cleaned
- Walls free of blu-tack, posters, and marks
Inspector focus: Condition for new occupants.
5. Hallways & Stairs
- Floors vacuumed/mopped
- Bannisters wiped
- Light switches and fittings cleaned
- Cobwebs removed
Inspector focus: Safety and fire exits kept clean.
Need a full checklist to cover every room in detail? Read our The Ultimate End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist Edinburgh (Room-by-Room Breakdown)
Why Fixed-Price HMO Cleaning Works Best
Unlike single lets, HMO move-outs often involve multiple tenants leaving at different times, which makes cleaning tricky.
A fixed-price end of tenancy cleaning package ensures the whole property is brought up to standard without hourly costs spiralling if extra work is needed.
Want to know about the best in Edinburgh? Then read our Best End of Tenancy Cleaning Edinburgh: Cheapest Professional Cleaners
Evidence Landlords Should Keep
For deposit disputes and HMO licence compliance, landlords should keep:
- Before/after cleaning photos
- Signed cleaning checklist
- Invoices from professional cleaners
- Tenant inventory reports
FAQ – HMO End of Tenancy Cleaning in Edinburgh
Do HMOs require professional cleaning at move-out?
Not by law, but most tenancy agreements and HMO licence conditions demand properties be returned to move-in standard.
What do HMO inspectors check for?
Kitchens, bathrooms, communal areas, and fire exits must be safe, clean, and hygienic.
How much does HMO end of tenancy cleaning cost in Edinburgh?
From £180–£300 depending on property size. MT Cleaners offers fixed-price packages
