How Many Hours of Housekeeping Do You Need in the UK?
A simple way to estimate the housekeeping hours you need in the UK.
Quick answer: for a flat, budget around 2–4 hours a week; for a house or a family, 4–8 hours or more. The right amount depends on floor area, number of rooms, occupants and tasks (cleaning only, ironing, cooking).
Sizing the hours well avoids overpaying — or asking the impossible in too little time. Here's how to estimate.
Factors to weigh
- The floor area and number of rooms (especially kitchens and bathrooms).
- The number of occupants (children, pets).
- The tasks: routine cleaning, ironing, windows, cooking.
- The frequency: weekly, fortnightly, one-off.
Rules of thumb
- Studio / 1-bed: 2–3 h/week.
- 2–3 bed: 3–5 h/week.
- Family house: 5–8 h or several visits.
Estimate the cost
Once you've set the hours, size the weekly budget — gross pay and total employer cost included.
Official sources
Conclusion
Start with a reasonable amount, adjust after a few weeks, and write the hours into the contract.
See also
- How much it costs — the budget for your hours.
- Interview questions — pin down the expected tasks.
FAQ
How many hours for a three-bed house?
Around 3–4 hours per visit for routine upkeep, more if you add ironing or cooking, and typically once or twice a week.
One long visit or several short ones?
A single 3–4 hour visit is usually more efficient than several short ones, unless you have specific needs like daily tidying or the school run.
How often should I have cleaning done?
Weekly is the most common; every two weeks or monthly for a smaller home, with a deep clean every few months.
What tasks are included?
Agree at the start: cleaning, ironing, laundry, kitchen, help with children or elderly relatives. A clear list avoids misunderstandings.
Should I pay hourly, by the day or monthly?
By the hour for one-off tasks or a few hours a week; a monthly salary when it's full-time. Choose based on the regular workload.