A post-construction cleaning business removes dust, debris, and mess from new builds and renovations. You can start one for $2,000 to $10,000 in equipment and supplies. Most jobs pay $500 to $3,000, making this a high-profit niche in the cleaning industry.
What Is Post-Construction Cleaning?
Post-construction cleaning is the deep clean after building work ends. It removes drywall dust, paint splatters, and leftover materials.
This work happens before anyone moves into the space. Builders and contractors hire cleaners to make the site look ready for use.
It is different from regular cleaning. The mess is heavier, the surfaces are new, and the stakes are high.
What Are the Three Phases of Construction Cleaning?
Construction cleaning has three phases. Each phase happens at a different stage of the building project.
Phase 1: Rough Clean
The rough clean happens while building work is still going on. Workers remove large debris like wood scraps, drywall pieces, and nails.
This phase clears the site so tradespeople can keep working safely. It often includes sweeping floors and hauling trash to dumpsters.
Phase 2: Light Clean
The light clean happens after most construction is done. Workers wipe down surfaces and remove smaller debris.
Dust gets wiped from window sills, counters, and cabinets. Floors get swept and mopped for the first time.
Phase 3: Final Clean
The final clean is the last step before move-in. Every surface must be spotless and ready for use.
This includes washing windows, polishing fixtures, and deep cleaning floors. Builders count on this phase to impress the new owner.
New to the cleaning industry? Read our full guide on how to start a cleaning business for licenses, insurance, and basic setup steps.
Why Is Post-Construction Cleaning a Profitable Business?
Post-construction cleaning pays much more per job than regular cleaning. A single home cleanup can earn $500 to $1,500.
High Per-Job Revenue
Regular house cleaning pays $100 to $250 per visit. Post-construction cleaning pays $500 to $3,000 per job. That means fewer jobs for the same income.
Less Competition
Most cleaning companies focus on homes and offices. Fewer companies offer construction cleanup services. This means less price pressure for you.
Repeat Builder Relationships
Builders and contractors always need cleaning after each project. One good relationship can bring you steady work for years. A single builder may have 10 to 20 projects per year.
Year-Round Demand
New homes and buildings go up every month. Renovation projects happen all year long. Your work pipeline stays full in every season.
What Equipment and Supplies Do You Need?
Post-construction cleaning needs heavier tools than regular cleaning. Here is what you need to get started.
Essential Equipment
- Heavy-duty shop vacuum — picks up drywall dust, nails, and debris
- Extension ladder — reach high windows, ceilings, and light fixtures
- Floor scraper and razor blades — remove paint, adhesive, and sticker residue
- Pressure washer — clean exterior walls, driveways, and concrete
- Mop and bucket system — clean hard floors without damaging new surfaces
- Microfiber cloths and dusters — wipe fine dust from every surface
- Window cleaning kit — squeegee, scrubber, and extension pole
Cleaning Chemicals You Need
- All-purpose degreaser — removes grease and grime from surfaces
- Glass cleaner — streak-free shine for windows and mirrors
- Mineral deposit remover — cleans hard water stains from fixtures
- Floor cleaner — safe for tile, hardwood, and concrete
- Stainless steel polish — shines appliances and metal fixtures
Startup Equipment Costs
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Heavy-duty shop vacuum | $200 to $500 |
| Extension ladder | $150 to $400 |
| Pressure washer | $300 to $800 |
| Floor scrapers and razor blades | $30 to $80 |
| Window cleaning kit | $50 to $150 |
| Mop and bucket system | $40 to $100 |
| Cleaning chemicals (starter set) | $100 to $300 |
| Microfiber cloths and dusters | $30 to $70 |
| Total Startup Equipment | $900 to $2,400 |
Add business registration, insurance, and marketing to reach the full $2,000 to $10,000 startup range. Read our cleaning supplies guide for more details.
How Do You Price Post-Construction Cleaning?
Most companies price by square foot or flat rate. Your price depends on the project size and cleaning phase.
Price Per Square Foot
The standard rate is $0.15 to $0.50 per square foot. Final cleans cost more than rough cleans. Larger projects often get a lower per-square-foot rate.
Flat Rate Pricing
Some clients prefer a flat rate. Walk the job site first to estimate the work. Then give a firm price based on what you see.
Pricing by Project Type
| Project Type | Size Range | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single family home | 1,500 to 3,500 square feet | $500 to $1,500 |
| Apartment unit | 600 to 1,200 square feet | $200 to $600 |
| Commercial office | 2,000 to 10,000 square feet | $800 to $3,000 |
| Retail space | 1,000 to 5,000 square feet | $400 to $1,500 |
Always visit the site before giving a quote. Every project is different. Use our pricing guide for more strategies.
How Do You Find Construction Cleaning Clients?
Your best clients are builders, contractors, and property managers. Here is how to reach them.
Visit Active Construction Sites
Drive around your area and look for new builds. Stop by and ask for the project manager. Leave your business card and a simple flyer.
Contact General Contractors
General contractors manage building projects from start to finish. They hire the cleanup crew. Build a list of local contractors and reach out by phone or email.
Join Builder Associations
Your local home builders association hosts events and meetings. Attend these to meet builders face to face. Membership also puts you in their vendor directory.
Connect With Real Estate Developers
Developers build apartments, condos, and commercial spaces. They need cleaning for every unit before tenants move in. One developer can give you dozens of jobs per year.
Ask Property Managers for Referrals
Property managers handle renovations and tenant turnover. They often need construction cleanup after repairs. Stay in touch and they will call you when work comes up.
What Should Your Post-Construction Cleaning Checklist Include?
A detailed checklist keeps your team on track. It also shows clients exactly what they get.
Dust Removal
- Wipe all surfaces — counters, shelves, window sills, and ledges
- Clean air vents and returns — remove drywall dust from ductwork covers
- Dust light fixtures — wipe every bulb, shade, and cover
- Clean ceiling fans — wipe each blade top and bottom
Window Cleaning
- Scrape paint and stickers — use a razor blade at an angle
- Wash inside and outside glass — squeegee for a streak-free finish
- Clean window tracks and frames — vacuum then wipe with a damp cloth
Fixture Polishing
- Polish faucets and handles — remove water spots and fingerprints
- Clean cabinet hardware — wipe knobs and pulls with a soft cloth
- Shine appliances — use stainless steel polish on metal surfaces
Floor Preparation
- Vacuum all floors — use a heavy-duty vacuum for fine dust
- Mop hard floors — use the right cleaner for each floor type
- Scrape adhesive and paint — remove spots without scratching
- Clean grout lines — scrub tile grout with a stiff brush
How Do You Market Your Post-Construction Cleaning Business?
Marketing to builders is different from marketing to homeowners. Focus on relationships and reputation.
Build a Professional Website
Your website should show before-and-after photos. List the types of projects you handle. Include your service area and contact details.
Use Google Business Profile
Set up a free Google Business Profile for your company. This helps local builders find you when they search online. Ask happy clients to leave reviews.
Network at Industry Events
Attend home builder shows and trade events. Hand out business cards to every contractor you meet. Follow up with a phone call the next week.
Offer a Free First Walkthrough
Visit the site at no charge to give a quote. This shows builders you are professional and serious. It also helps you price the job right.
Ask for Referrals
After every job, ask the contractor to refer you. Builders talk to other builders. One good referral can lead to five more jobs.
Use our price calculator to quote jobs quickly. Track clients and invoices with cleaning business software as your company grows.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid?
New construction cleaners make the same mistakes over and over. Learn from their errors to grow faster.
Underpricing Your Services
Construction cleaning is hard, dirty work. Do not charge regular cleaning rates. Price your jobs based on the heavy labor needed.
Skipping the Site Walkthrough
Never quote a job without seeing the site first. Photos do not show every detail. Walk every room before giving a price.
Using the Wrong Chemicals
New surfaces scratch and stain easily. Test every cleaning product in a hidden spot first. The wrong chemical can ruin a brand-new countertop or floor.
Not Having Insurance
Construction sites have expensive new materials. If you damage a $5,000 countertop, you pay for it. General liability insurance protects you from costly mistakes.
Ignoring Safety Rules
Construction sites can be dangerous. Wear hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toe boots. Follow all site safety rules without exception.
Working Without a Contract
Always get the scope of work in writing before you start. A written contract protects both you and the client. It prevents disputes about what was included in the price.