When a project is completed, one of the most common concerns is how construction cleaning costs are calculated and why quotes vary so much. This article summarizes real-world experiences from both residential and commercial projects, combined with professional insights from Phương Gia Foundation, to help you understand the main factors, how to optimize expenses, and still ensure quality results. You will also find practical examples, tips for working with contractors, and signs of a transparent cleaning quote. With this knowledge, you can make informed decisions for post-construction cleaning and avoid unexpected extra charges.
Project size & current condition directly impact construction cleaning costs
The total area, number of floors, level of dirt, and site condition significantly influence construction cleaning costs. For newly handed-over projects, fine dust, paint stains, and hardened cement usually take the most effort to handle. If the project is still in operation (cleaning while construction continues), the fragmented schedule increases cleaning costs due to wasted labor and time.
- Larger areas, multiple floors/heights, narrow spaces, or glass-heavy designs all add more workload.
- Special surfaces (stone, wood, low-e glass, stainless steel) require tailored cleaning methods.
- Level of dirt: cement residue, paint drops, glass sealants require stronger chemicals and advanced techniques.
- Premises with furniture or equipment demand protective covering and careful relocation.
Scope of work & complexity in post-construction cleaning
The wider the scope, the more resources construction cleaning services require. Unlike routine cleaning, post-construction cleaning must deal with leftover materials, stubborn stains, and handover standards. Every additional task (glass, ceilings, MEP systems) pushes costs higher.
- Rough cleaning: collecting debris, sweeping, industrial vacuuming.
- Detail cleaning: removing cement, silicone, window polishing, floor buffing.
- Special areas: cleanrooms, commercial kitchens, bathrooms with sensitive finishes.
- Final touch-up: correcting streaks, watermarks, grout lines to achieve “handover-ready” standards.
Labor, schedule & deadlines affect construction cleaning pricing
When deadlines are tight, contractors may need extra shifts, overnight work, or more manpower, all raising costs. Team skill levels, site supervision, and progress schedules shape the overall pricing of construction cleaning.
- Rush deadlines: night or weekend shifts, or larger teams, add surcharges.
- Skill & safety: certified teams for high-rise or hazardous work cost more.
- Coordination with other subcontractors may cause downtime and extra expenses.
Equipment, chemicals & safety standards in industrial cleaning services
Advanced equipment and proper chemicals improve quality and efficiency but also influence costs. Compliance with occupational safety and surface protection is essential in industrial cleaning services. Correct processes and equipment reduce risks and rework expenses.
- Floor scrubbers, scaffolding, high-pressure washers, suspended platforms.
- Neutral cleaners for stone/wood, specialized cement removers.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) and fall protection for high-rise work.
- Spot-testing before large-scale application prevents stains, scratches, or corrosion.
Location, accessibility & extra fees in cleaning quotes
Difficult access, distant locations, parking restrictions, or building permits add time and costs. These factors usually appear as extra charges in cleaning quotes. Planning ahead helps investors control budgets.
- Parking fees, night shift surcharges, access passes, transportation for large machines.
- Noise restrictions extend the cleaning schedule.
- High-rise glass work may require permits and liability insurance.
Transparent quotes & contracts help optimize construction cleaning costs
A professional construction cleaning quote should include a site survey, detailed scope of work, warranty terms, and clear acceptance conditions. Trusted companies like Phương Gia Foundation usually provide itemized pricing, safety plans, and schedules, making it easier for clients to evaluate and compare.
- Request cost breakdown by area/task for fair comparison.
- Extra charges should only apply with documented agreements.
- Acceptance checklist: streak-free glass, scratch-free floors, dust-free surfaces, chemical-safe environment.
Quick example of post-construction cleaning costs
For a 90 m² apartment with medium dirt levels, completed in 1 day: unit prices of 18,000–25,000 VND/m² result in 1.62–2.25 million VND. Extra charges may apply for external glass or parking fees. Overnight or urgent deadlines may increase costs by 10–20% depending on building conditions.
FAQ on construction cleaning costs
Are construction cleaning prices calculated per m² or as a package?
It depends on the project size and scope. Small jobs often use per-m² pricing for transparency, while larger projects use packaged pricing. The key is having a clear scope of work so the construction cleaning quote accurately reflects expectations.
How is post-construction cleaning different from routine cleaning?
Post-construction cleaning focuses on cement, paint, dust, and adhesives with stronger chemicals and techniques, posing higher risks of scratches or stains. Routine cleaning focuses on maintenance and uses gentler methods, so its cost is generally lower.
Is a site survey required before quoting?
Yes, site surveys assess surfaces, dirt levels, and working conditions, forming the basis for accurate pricing. Surveys also help plan manpower, equipment, and standards, ensuring construction cleaning costs match reality.
What extra fees are common?
Frequent extras include parking fees, overtime/night shifts, external glass, restricted-access zones, equipment transport, or building insurance requirements. Always ensure these are clearly stated in the cleaning quote.
Conclusion & Call to Action
In summary, construction cleaning costs depend on size, dirt level, scope, deadlines, equipment, and location. The best way to optimize is through clear surveys, detailed scopes, proper schedules, and transparent quotes with acceptance checklists. Need professional construction or house cleaning services? Contact Phương Gia Foundation - Hotline: 0948952024 or 0824 255 585.
