Cambridge Property Maintenance for HMOs: What Landlords Must Budget For

Shared homes come with shared responsibilities—and for landlords, that means shared wear and tear. HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) properties in Cambridge face more frequent maintenance needs than standard rentals. Planning and budgeting proactively isn’t just wise—it’s essential to staying compliant, keeping tenants happy, and protecting your bottom line.

Top Maintenance Costs in HMO Properties

The most common areas requiring regular upkeep in HMOs include:

• Kitchens: With multiple tenants cooking daily, appliances, worktops, and cupboard hinges take a beating. Budget for repairs and replacements every few years.

• Plumbing and Bathrooms: Shared showers and toilets mean higher usage and quicker wear. Watch for leaks, blocked drains, and silicone or grout issues.

• Fire Safety Equipment: HMOs require more rigorous safety standards. This includes smoke alarms, heat detectors, fire doors, and regular testing.

• Communal Areas: Hallways, lounges, and stairs endure constant foot traffic. Carpets may need more frequent cleaning or replacement, and paintwork can quickly look tired.

Annual vs Monthly Maintenance Planning

Many landlords underestimate costs by focusing only on reactive fixes. Instead, split your budget into:

• Monthly allocations: Set aside a percentage of rent (e.g. 5-10%) for ongoing maintenance

• Annual investments: Schedule bigger tasks like boiler servicing, fire alarm certifications, or deep cleans

Proactive upkeep reduces emergency callouts and extends the life of fittings.

Legal Maintenance Responsibilities for HMO Landlords

Cambridge HMO landlords have specific legal obligations, including:

• Electrical safety checks (EICR) every 5 years

• Gas safety certificates annually

• Fire alarm system checks monthly and documented

• Furniture and furnishings must meet fire safety standards

Failure to meet these duties can result in hefty fines or revoked licences.

How Cambridge Stays Helps Keep Costs Predictable and Properties Protected

At Cambridge Stays, we take a proactive, not reactive, approach to HMO maintenance. We:

• Implement scheduled inspections for common wear points

• Work with trusted local contractors for rapid, affordable repairs

• Ensure your property remains fully compliant year-round

• Provide monthly reports so you can track spending and spot trends

Our aim is simple: keep tenants satisfied and your property profitable with no surprises.

Want Proactive Maintenance and Budget Control?

Managing an HMO in Cambridge doesn’t have to mean endless upkeep headaches. With Cambridge Stays, your maintenance is planned, predictable, and fully compliant—so you can focus on growing your returns, not fixing leaky taps.