My Housemate Ignores the Cleaning Rota - What Can I Do?

Living in a rented shared property can be a practical and affordable option, but it also means sharing responsibility for communal spaces. When one housemate repeatedly ignores the cleaning rota, it can quickly turn a shared rental into a source of daily stress. Messy kitchens, dirty bathrooms and overflowing bins don’t just cause tension — they can also affect the condition of the property and, in some cases, your deposit.

If you’re renting with others and dealing with a housemate who never sticks to the cleaning rota, here’s what you can realistically do — and when it may become more than just a housemate disagreement.

Why Cleaning Rotas Often Break Down in Rented Shared Homes

In rented shared properties, cleaning rotas usually fail because expectations aren’t clearly set from the start. Housemates may have different ideas of what “clean” means, may not feel responsible for shared areas, or may assume cleaning is someone else’s job.

This matters more in a rental because tenants are generally responsible for keeping communal areas reasonably clean during the tenancy. If mess leads to damage, mould or pest problems, it can have consequences when you move out. Our guide on tenant responsibilities in shared rented homes explains what tenants are expected to manage themselves and what falls to the landlord.

Housing charity Shelter regularly sees disputes in shared rentals escalate over cleaning and shared responsibilities. Its advice on problems with housemates in rented accommodation highlights the importance of addressing issues early.

Start With a Calm Conversation as Tenants, Not Just Housemates

In a rented property, it’s especially important to deal with issues early and calmly. Choose a neutral moment to raise the problem and explain how the lack of cleaning is affecting the household and the condition of the property.

Focus on shared responsibility rather than blame. Many issues are resolved simply because one person didn’t realise how much their behaviour was affecting others. Flatshare platform Right Room explains why open communication is key in rented flatshares before tensions escalate.

Fix the Cleaning Rota to Suit a Rented Shared Property

A cleaning rota in a rented home needs to be clear, realistic and agreed by everyone. It works best when it’s visible and easy to follow, whether that’s on a noticeboard, fridge or shared document.

Rotating less popular jobs, such as cleaning bathrooms or taking out bins, can help avoid resentment. Universities often recommend simple rotas for shared accommodation — for example, this shared kitchen rota template used in student housing.

If forgetfulness is the main issue, Mistoria explains how digital cleaning tools can help reduce conflict in rented house shares by sending reminders and making responsibilities clearer.

Agree Cleaning Standards to Protect the Property

In a rented shared property, different cleaning standards can become a serious issue. Agreeing on minimum expectations helps protect the home and avoids arguments later.

This might include how often shared spaces are cleaned, how food waste is managed, and how quickly spills or messes should be dealt with. Shelter recommends clear house rules in rented accommodation to avoid disputes, as outlined in its guidance on managing housemate issues.

If cleaning issues could affect your deposit, it’s worth understanding what landlords can deduct at the end of a tenancy. Our article on deposit deductions and wear and tear explains where tenants stand.

Avoid Approaches That Can Backfire in a Rental

Passive-aggressive notes or public shaming often make rented house shares more uncomfortable and can increase tension. In a shared tenancy, this can make day-to-day living awkward very quickly.

Instead, neutral reminders in a group chat or a shared checklist tend to work better. Right Room advises that direct, respectful communication is far more effective in rented shared homes.

When a Cleaning Issue Becomes a Tenancy Problem

If a housemate’s refusal to clean leads to mould, pests or damage, it may go beyond a personal disagreement. At that point, it can affect the condition of the rental and may justify involving the landlord or letting agent.

Shelter also explains when mediation services can help resolve ongoing conflicts between tenants.

Final Thoughts

In a rented shared property, ignoring a cleaning rota isn’t just frustrating — it can affect the condition of the home, your deposit and your overall quality of life. While most issues can be resolved with clear expectations and better systems, you shouldn’t feel responsible for carrying the burden alone.

You’re entitled to live in a rented home that feels clean, fair and liveable. If informal solutions fail, it’s reasonable to consider cleaners, mediation or other housing options.