The Importance of a London United Cleaner: Role Overview and Salary
Cleaners play a vital role in maintaining the professional, hygienic, and safe environments that keep companies like London United running efficiently. As a cleaner, your work ensures passengers and staff experience cleanliness and comfort—especially in public transport settings like buses, depots, and facilities. This role often includes tasks such as dusting, mopping, vacuuming, waste disposal, disinfecting surfaces, and handling cleaning equipment.
At London United, cleaners can expect a starting salary of around £11.50 to £13.00 per hour, with potential for overtime and shift enhancements. Many roles also offer additional benefits such as travel discounts, pension schemes, and career development opportunities.
If you’re preparing for a cleaner interview at London United, these top 20 questions and expert-approved answers will help you feel confident and well-prepared.
20 Interview Questions and Answers for London United Cleaner Role
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Focus on your experience, reliability, and attention to detail.
Answer: “I have over three years of experience in commercial and transport cleaning. I’m a hardworking and detail-oriented individual who takes pride in maintaining clean and safe spaces. I’m always punctual and work well both independently and in a team setting.”
2. What do you know about London United?
Show your research.
Answer: “London United is part of RATP Group and operates several bus routes across London. It’s known for its commitment to safety, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction, which is something I’d be proud to contribute to.”
3. Why do you want to work as a cleaner at London United?
Focus on values, stability, and passion.
Answer: “I want to join a respected and structured company where I can use my skills and contribute to the team’s success. The role’s stability and opportunity for growth at London United really appeal to me.”
4. What are your main strengths as a cleaner?
List practical and soft skills.
Answer: “I’m efficient, physically fit, and very thorough. I have a good eye for detail and am always willing to go the extra mile to keep things spotless.”
5. How do you handle repetitive tasks?
Answer: “I stay focused and take pride in doing the job well, no matter how routine. I also organize tasks in a way that keeps me productive and engaged.”
6. How do you ensure health and safety in your work?
Answer: “I always follow COSHH guidelines, use PPE properly, and ensure wet floor signs are visible. Safety is my priority for both myself and others around me.”
7. Are you comfortable working night or weekend shifts?
Be honest but flexible.
Answer: “Yes, I understand that cleaning in transport often requires flexible hours. I’m open to night and weekend shifts.”
8. Have you used industrial cleaning machines before?
Mention specific equipment if applicable.
Answer: “Yes, I’ve used floor scrubbers, steam cleaners, and high-pressure washers. I’m comfortable learning new tools as needed.”
9. How do you prioritize your cleaning tasks during a busy shift?
Answer: “I assess the areas based on usage and urgency, then work methodically. I also communicate with my supervisor if priorities change.”
10. What would you do if you found a lost item while cleaning?
Answer: “I would immediately report and hand the item to my supervisor or follow company protocol to log it properly.”
11. How do you handle complaints about cleanliness?
Answer: “I listen carefully, stay calm, and take immediate action to fix the issue. Feedback helps me improve.”
12. Describe a time you went above and beyond in a cleaning role.
Give a real example.
Answer: “During a late shift, a pipe leaked and flooded a section of the floor. I stayed beyond my shift to clean it thoroughly and ensure it was safe for use the next day.”
13. How do you stay motivated during long shifts?
Answer: “I focus on the importance of my role and keep a positive mindset. Music or small breaks during my shift also help me stay energized.”
14. What cleaning products are you familiar with?
Answer: “I’ve used multi-surface disinfectants, degreasers, bleach solutions, and eco-friendly products. I always read labels and follow safety data sheets.”
15. How do you deal with hazardous waste or bodily fluids?
Answer: “I follow the company’s biohazard protocol, use PPE, and dispose of the material in line with regulations.”
16. How would you clean a bus at the end of its shift?
Answer: “I’d start by removing litter, sweeping and mopping floors, wiping seats and handrails, sanitizing touchpoints, and checking for any damage or unusual items.”
17. What steps do you take to prevent the spread of viruses?
Answer: “Frequent sanitizing of high-touch surfaces, proper PPE usage, and using anti-viral disinfectants are key steps I follow.”
18. Are you able to work in a team as well as independently?
Answer: “Yes, I’m comfortable in both settings. I enjoy team coordination but can also manage solo cleaning responsibilities effectively.”
19. Do you have any formal cleaning qualifications?
Answer: “I have completed Level 2 Cleaning Principles and COSHH awareness training, which gave me knowledge of best practices and chemical safety.”
20. What are your long-term goals?
Answer: “I’d like to build a long-term career with London United and possibly grow into a supervisory or training role over time.”
Final Interview Tips and Encouragement
Interviewing for a cleaning role, especially in a respected company like London United, is about showing pride in your work, reliability, and your understanding of safety and hygiene. Remember to:
Dress professionally, even for a cleaning role—it shows respect and seriousness.
Bring proof of right to work, ID, and any relevant certificates.
Be honest and confident, even if you lack experience. Your willingness to learn goes a long way.
Ask questions, such as, “What does a typical day look like?” or “Are there training opportunities?”
Keep practicing your answers, stay calm, and remember—you’re applying for a role that makes a real difference.
