Cost of House Cleaning Services
across the UK

How much does house cleaning services cost in the UK?

House cleaning services in the UK typically cost between £15 and £40 per hour, depending on location and provider. One-off deep cleans range from £200 to £600 for an average three-bedroom home. Regular weekly or fortnightly cleaning contracts often cost £100 to £300 per visit. Prices vary significantly between London and regional areas, with London generally 20-30% more expensive than elsewhere in the country.

What affects the cost of house cleaning services?

Five key factors determine house cleaning prices: property size (square footage directly impacts hours needed), cleaning type (standard versus deep clean), location (London and Southeast command premiums), frequency (regular contracts receive discounts), and additional services (window cleaning, carpet shampooing, oven cleaning cost extra). Specialist treatments for pet stains or heavy soiling also increase charges significantly.

What does a house cleaning service actually include?

Standard house cleaning includes vacuuming carpets, mopping hard floors, dusting surfaces, cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, and emptying bins. Deep cleans add skirting boards, inside cupboards, window sills, and appliance exteriors. Most providers offer customisable packages allowing you to add window cleaning, carpet shampooing, or specialised treatments. Always confirm what's included before booking.

What's the difference between regular and deep house cleaning?

Regular cleaning maintains cleanliness through weekly or fortnightly visits, focusing on high-traffic areas and visible surfaces. Deep cleaning occurs quarterly or annually, tackling neglected areas like inside ovens, behind furniture, skirting boards, and light fittings. Deep cleans take significantly longer and cost 50-100% more than regular visits but restore thoroughness that maintenance cleaning cannot achieve.

What should I check before hiring a house cleaning provider?

Verify the provider holds public liability insurance protecting your home against accidental damage. Request references from existing clients and check online reviews thoroughly. Confirm they're members of trade associations like FEDMA or the Cleaning Industry Federation. Ensure they've conducted background checks on staff. Agree cleaning specifications and cancellation policies in writing before booking.

How long does a house cleaning service take to complete?

A standard three-bedroom home typically requires 3-4 hours for regular cleaning, whilst deep cleans take 6-8 hours. Smaller properties may need only 2-3 hours, whereas larger homes or those requiring deep cleaning could take 10+ hours. Most providers complete regular jobs in a single visit, though deep cleans occasionally need two sessions for thorough results.

Do I need a certified professional for house cleaning services?

House cleaning services are unregulated in the UK, meaning no formal certification is legally required. However, reputable providers voluntarily seek membership with trade bodies like the Cleaning Industry Federation or FEDMA, demonstrating professional standards. Local, established cleaning companies with proven track records and insurance offer better protection than unvetted individuals, particularly for regular access to your home.