Now I'll write you a blog post about Build-to-Rent cleaning with the Decent Homes Standard legislation:

Build-to-Rent Cleaning in Manchester: Preparing for the Decent Homes Standard

The Build-to-Rent (BTR) sector has transformed Manchester's rental landscape over the past decade. From gleaming tower blocks in Spinningfields to contemporary apartment complexes in Ancoats, purpose-built rental accommodation now houses thousands of Mancunians seeking the flexibility and amenities that traditional buy-to-let properties simply can't match.

However, with the recent passing of the Renters' Rights Act 2025 in October, BTR operators face a significant regulatory shift that will fundamentally change how they maintain and present their properties. The extension of the Decent Homes Standard to the private rental sector – including Build-to-Rent developments – represents one of the most substantial changes to rental property regulation in a generation.

What is the Decent Homes Standard?

Originally introduced in 2000 for social housing, the Decent Homes Standard sets legally binding minimum requirements for rental properties. Until now, it has only applied to council and housing association properties. However, following extensive consultation throughout 2025, the government confirmed it will extend the Standard to all private rented accommodation, including Build-to-Rent developments.

Under the reformed Standard, all rental properties – from traditional houses to high-rise BTR apartments – must meet five key criteria:

1. Freedom from Category 1 Hazards Properties must be free from serious hazards as assessed under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). This includes dangers like severe damp, dangerous electrics, fire risks, and fall hazards.

2. Good State of Repair All key building components must be maintained in good condition, with the assessment focusing on actual condition rather than age. This includes kitchens, bathrooms, heating systems, and fire safety equipment.

3. Modern Facilities Properties must have reasonably modern kitchens (less than 20 years old) and bathrooms, along with appropriate external amenities.

4. Energy Efficiency and Thermal Comfort Adequate heating and insulation must be provided to ensure residents can maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the property.

5. Prevention of Damp and Mould A new criterion specifically addressing damp and mould, working alongside Awaab's Law requirements, which sets strict timeframes for landlords to address serious hazards.

The Standard is expected to come into force for the private rental sector in either 2035 or 2037, giving operators substantial lead time to ensure compliance.

Why BTR Operators Should Act Now

Whilst the implementation date might seem distant, forward-thinking BTR operators recognise that maintaining properties to the highest standards isn't just about regulatory compliance – it's a competitive advantage.

Tenant Expectations Are Rising

Build-to-Rent tenants already expect premium living standards. They're paying for professionally managed accommodation with superior amenities and services. Properties that fall short on cleanliness and maintenance will struggle to command premium rents or maintain high occupancy rates.

Reputation Matters

In Manchester's competitive BTR market, reputation is everything. Online reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, and social media presence can make or break a development. Consistent, professional cleaning demonstrates operational excellence and care for residents' wellbeing.

Preventative Maintenance Saves Money

Regular, thorough cleaning isn't an expense – it's an investment. Professional cleaning identifies maintenance issues early, prevents the buildup of problems like mould and limescale, and extends the lifespan of fixtures, fittings, and finishes.

The Unique Cleaning Challenges of Build-to-Rent

BTR developments present distinct cleaning challenges compared to traditional rental properties:

High-Volume Turnover Unlike traditional rentals where tenancies might last years, BTR properties often experience higher turnover rates. Each vacancy requires a comprehensive turnover clean to prepare the unit for viewings and new residents.

Communal Areas Shared spaces – lobbies, corridors, gyms, lounges, and rooftop terraces – require daily attention. These areas are the face of your development and directly impact tenant satisfaction and retention.

Diverse Unit Sizes and Types From studio apartments to three-bedroom penthouses, BTR developments contain varied unit types, each requiring tailored cleaning approaches.

Amenity Spaces Co-working areas, cinema rooms, residents' lounges, and similar amenities need specialised cleaning to maintain hygiene standards whilst preserving expensive furnishings and equipment.

Consistent Standards With potentially hundreds of units, maintaining consistent cleaning standards across every apartment and communal space is a significant operational challenge.

Professional Cleaning: Essential for BTR Success

Given these complexities, professional cleaning isn't optional for successful BTR operations – it's fundamental to your business model.

Apartment Turnover Cleaning

When a tenant vacates, comprehensive turnover cleaning is essential:

• Deep cleaning of kitchens including appliances, cupboards, and surfaces
• Bathroom sanitisation with attention to grouting, tiles, and fixtures
• Floor care appropriate to the finish (engineered wood, tiles, carpet)
• Window cleaning inside and out
• Removal of all traces of previous occupation
• Balcony or terrace cleaning where applicable

Professional cleaners working in the BTR sector understand the urgency of turnovers. Vacant units represent lost revenue, so cleaning must be completed quickly without compromising quality.

Communal Area Maintenance

First impressions form in your lobby, not in individual apartments. Daily cleaning of communal areas should include:

• Entrance reception and lobby areas
• Lifts and stairwells
• Corridor floors, walls, and fixtures
• Shared amenity spaces
• Post rooms and parcel storage areas
• Bin stores and refuse areas

High-traffic areas require particular attention, especially in Manchester's unpredictable weather when residents track in rain, mud, and debris.

Amenity Space Cleaning

BTR amenities distinguish your development from competitors, but they also require specialist cleaning:

Gyms and Fitness Areas Equipment sanitisation, floor cleaning, mirror cleaning, and changing room maintenance all require daily attention.

Co-working Spaces Desks, meeting rooms, and communal working areas need regular cleaning and sanitisation, particularly post-pandemic.

Lounges and Social Spaces Upholstery cleaning, surface sanitisation, and general tidying maintain these valuable social spaces.

Outdoor Terraces and Balconies Seasonal deep cleaning prevents buildup of grime, algae, and debris whilst maintaining safety standards.

Compliance with the Renters' Rights Act

Beyond the Decent Homes Standard, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces several other provisions affecting BTR operators:

Abolition of Section 21 From 1st May 2026, "no-fault" evictions will be abolished, replaced by specific grounds for possession. This makes tenant retention even more critical – and property condition directly impacts retention.

Rent Increase Limitations Landlords can only increase rent once annually, and tenants can challenge increases at tribunal. Well-maintained, professionally cleaned properties justify rent levels and reduce challenge risk.

Enhanced Enforcement Powers Local authorities gain strengthened powers to inspect properties and issue penalties up to £40,000 for certain breaches. Professional cleaning documentation provides crucial evidence of compliance.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Partner for BTR

Not all cleaning companies understand the BTR sector's unique demands. When selecting a cleaning partner, Manchester BTR operators should prioritise:

Experience with Large Portfolios Your cleaning partner needs systems to manage multiple units, consistent quality control, and the capacity to scale up during high-turnover periods.

Flexible Scheduling Turnover cleaning often needs to happen quickly, sometimes out of hours. Your cleaning company must adapt to your operational requirements.

Quality Assurance Systems With numerous units, robust quality control processes ensure every apartment meets the same exacting standards.

Transparent Pricing Clear, predictable pricing structures allow accurate budgeting and financial planning across your portfolio.

Understanding of BTR Standards The best cleaning partners understand that BTR isn't just accommodation – it's a lifestyle product. Cleaning standards must reflect this positioning.

Environmental Responsibility Modern tenants expect environmental consciousness. Eco-friendly cleaning products and sustainable practices align with BTR residents' values.

The ROI of Professional Cleaning in BTR

Professional cleaning delivers measurable returns:

• Reduced void periods through faster, more effective turnovers
• Higher rental values justified by superior presentation
• Improved tenant retention through enhanced living experience
• Reduced maintenance costs through early problem identification
• Regulatory compliance avoiding fines and reputational damage
• Competitive differentiation in a crowded market

Looking Ahead: Future-Proofing Your BTR Development

The Decent Homes Standard represents just one aspect of increasing regulation in the rental sector. Forward-thinking BTR operators are already exceeding minimum requirements, recognising that tomorrow's standards are today's competitive advantages.

Professional, consistent cleaning isn't about meeting minimums – it's about creating living environments that residents genuinely love, that command premium rents, and that build long-term portfolio value.

Your Manchester BTR Cleaning Partner

At The Professional Cleaning Company, we understand the unique demands of Build-to-Rent operations in Manchester. From daily communal area maintenance to comprehensive apartment turnovers, we provide the reliable, professional cleaning services that successful BTR developments require.

Our experience with large residential portfolios, commitment to quality assurance, and understanding of the regulatory landscape make us the natural choice for BTR operators who refuse to compromise on standards.

Ready to elevate your Build-to-Rent cleaning standards? Contact The Professional Cleaning Company today to discuss how our tailored BTR cleaning solutions can support your operational excellence and regulatory compliance.