After construction or renovation work, a property is often left dusty, cluttered, and unsafe for immediate use. Hiring a professional builder cleaning company ensures the site is properly cleaned, compliant with safety standards, and ready for handover. However, not all cleaning companies offer the same level of service.
Before you hire, it’s important to understand the right questions to ask, the insurance requirements to check, and how re-cleaning policies work.
Why Hire a Professional Builder Cleaning Company?
Builder cleaning is very different from regular domestic or office cleaning. Construction sites contain fine dust, debris, paint splashes, adhesives, and potentially hazardous materials. A professional builder cleaning company has:
- Trained staff experienced in post-construction cleaning
- Industrial-grade equipment and cleaning products
- Knowledge of health and safety requirements
- The ability to meet tight project deadlines
Hiring the right company protects your property, your workers, and your reputation.
Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Before signing a contract, ask these essential questions to make sure you’re hiring a reliable and professional builder cleaning company. For more guidance on selecting tradespeople, including builders and cleaners, check the New South Wales government’s recommendations on questions to ask before hiring a tradesperson or builder.
Do you specialize in builder or post-construction cleaning?
Not all cleaners are trained for construction environments. Confirm they specifically offer builder cleaning services.
What does your cleaning checklist include?
Ask for a detailed list covering floors, walls, windows, fixtures, kitchens, bathrooms, and dust removal from all surfaces.
Do you provide a final sparkle or handover clean?
Many projects require a high-standard clean before inspection or occupancy. Make sure this is included if needed.
Are your staff trained and supervised?
Professional companies should have trained cleaners and on-site supervision for larger jobs.
Can you work to project deadlines?
Construction schedules change. A reliable builder cleaning company should be flexible and responsive.
Do you have insurance and safety compliance?
Always confirm public liability and workers’ insurance. Ensure staff follow health and safety regulations on-site to avoid legal or financial risks.
What equipment and cleaning products do you use?
Builder cleaning requires specialized equipment like industrial vacuums with HEPA filters and safe cleaning products for surfaces, tiles, and glass. Ask if they have the right tools for your project.
Do you offer re-cleaning if issues are found?
Even after a thorough clean, dust may settle or defects may appear. Confirm the company’s re-clean policy, including what’s covered and the timeframe.
Can you provide references or examples of similar projects?
Request references or photos of past projects. A reputable builder cleaning company should demonstrate experience with sites similar to yours.
How is pricing structured?
Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, including labor, equipment, and any re-cleaning services. Transparent pricing helps avoid surprises later.
Insurance: What You Must Check
Insurance is a non-negotiable aspect when hiring a builder cleaning company. It protects both you and the cleaning team from potential accidents, property damage, or legal issues that may arise during the cleaning process. Before hiring, always verify the following:
- Public Liability Insurance – protects against property damage or injury on-site.
- Employer’s Liability Insurance – covers cleaners working on the premises.
- Compliance with local regulations – particularly important for commercial projects with strict safety standards.
Never hire a company that cannot provide proof of insurance. Doing so protects you from costly legal and financial risks and ensures that the cleaning company operates professionally and responsibly. Proper insurance gives you peace of mind and demonstrates that the company takes safety and legal compliance seriously.
Understanding Re-Clean Policies
Re-cleaning is an important part of builder cleaning services because dust can resettle or minor issues may appear during inspections. Before hiring, it’s essential to clarify the company’s re-clean policies to avoid surprises and ensure a professional finish.
- Is a re-clean included in the price? – Confirm whether follow-up cleaning is part of the original cost to avoid additional charges later.
- How soon must issues be reported? – Understand the timeframe for reporting any problems so the company can address them promptly.
- What areas are covered under the re-clean policy? – Check that all surfaces, fixtures, and problem spots are included in the re-clean service.
A professional builder cleaning company will clearly explain their re-clean process and stand behind their work. Some services offer guarantees, such as free re-cleans within 48-72 hours, as outlined in Texas Cleaning Services’ terms
How to Choose the Right Builder Cleaning Company
Choosing the right builder cleaning company for a handover clean is essential to ensure the property is ready for inspection or occupancy. Look beyond price alone, as the cheapest option may not provide the thorough cleaning required to meet handover standards. Checking reviews and references from previous clients helps confirm the company’s ability to deliver a spotless finish on similar handover projects. For trusted services, you can learn more about our team at Westlink Construction Cleaning.
Experience and attention to detail are crucial for handover cleaning. A company familiar with residential or commercial handovers will understand the level of polish needed, safety requirements, and strict timelines. Clear communication and a written agreement outlining the scope of work, pricing, and any re-cleaning policies ensures the property is handed over in pristine condition without delays or disputes.