Construction work in Australia is increasing. The rate of increase in construction work in Australia in 2024 is 1.6%. Construction cleaning services are a must to keep the newly built or renovated spaces clean, safe, and ready for use. For construction cleaning, price is a big factor to consider.
However, different factors impact the price of post-construction cleaning in Australia. They include, but are not limited to:
- Scope of cleaning services
- Project size and square footage
- Location-based cleaning cost
- Frequency of cleaning
- Specialise cleaning
- Material disposal fees and more.
We will talk about the factors that impact the cleaning price in detail.
Factors That Impact the Price of Construction Cleaning Services
The average national labour cost for cleaning in Australia ranges between $30/hr to $40/hr. However, different factors impact the post-construction cleanup cost. So, the overall cost can vary depending on the following factors.
#1 Scope of Cleaning Services
The construction site’s complexity and condition impact the construction cleaning services’ price.
Basic Cleaning
Spaces with light cleanup and minimal construction debris removal costs are less. Because they only need surface-level cleaning, such as dusting and sweeping.
Specialised Cleaning Tasks
Many tasks require specialised cleaning equipment and materials, as well as skills for construction site cleaning. High-rise window cleaning, floor waxing, sanitising high-touch surfaces, and polishing increase the cleaning cost.
The cost for high-rise windows can range from $80 to $100 per hour or can range from $50 to $150 per window. This depends on the height of the windows and access requirements.
There are different types of windows, such as sliding, casement, double-hung, etc… Different types may require different cleaning tools and techniques. These also impact the cleaning price.
Floor waxing and sealing will add additional costs to your cleaning services. It can add $5 to $8 per square metre for floor waxing and sealing.
#2 Project Size and Square Footage
The larger your space, the more you need to spend on cleaning. Because larger spaces require more time, increased labour, and materials.
Cleaning companies often use a square footage cleaning pricing model for larger spaces. Ultimately, the overall cost rate is lower than that of smaller spaces.
However, you can expect a cost of 15 to 50 cents per square foot.
#3 Residential Construction Cleaning and Commercial Cleaning Costs
After-construction costs vary for types of cleaning. Residential cleaning costs less than industrial and commercial cleaning costs. Residential construction cleaning involves:
- Dusting and vacuuming surfaces.
- Removing construction debris like small pieces of drywall or paint splatters.
- Cleaning windows, floors, and fixtures.
The average cleaning price range can vary from $200 to $1,500.
On the other hand, commercial after-construction cleaning involves:
- Deep cleaning of large surfaces like tiled floors or carpets.
- Cleaning high ceilings, vents, and fixtures.
- Disposing of heavier construction waste.
These tasks are more time-consuming and complex than residential cleaning. So, the cleaning cost can range from $1,000 to $5,000.
Besides these, industrial cleaning involves more complex, time-consuming and sensitive cleaning tasks. They include:
- Removing hazardous materials (e.g., chemical residues or oil spills).
- Cleaning heavy machinery and industrial flooring.
- Waste disposal that complies with legal and environmental regulations.
For example, cleaning a 16,000 sq ft industrial site can cost anything from $5,000 to $8,000.
#4 Location-Based Cleaning Costs
In metropolitan areas like Sydney or Brisbane, the labour costs for cleaning and transportation fees are higher. Also, if your construction site is situated in a remote area that is very far from the cleaning company’s location, this will also cost more.
Rural areas generally offer lower rates. But you may need to add additional travel fees for the cleaning company.
#5 Cleaning Frequency Impacts
The impact of cleaning frequency plays a big role in the price of the cleaning. Here’s how it works.
- One-time Cleaning:
If you need to clean the entire construction site once after completing the construction, you can go for a one-time cleaning. However, this one-time cleaning cost more due to its ad-hoc nature.
- Ongoing Cleaning Contracts:
If your construction site requires cleaning after completing every phase, you can go for ongoing cleaning contracts. Cleaning companies often offer discounts for ongoing cleaning projects.
You can expect 10% to 20% less costs for an ongoing cleaning than a one-time after-construction cleaning.
#6 Material Disposal Fees
Disposing of construction waste is a must for work safety in Australia. Your construction site must align with the local regulations for the safety of your workers and the environment.
However, the type and the volume of waste materials significantly impact the cost of cleaning. Because cleaning service providers also dispose of waste materials.
Disposal of Hazardous Waste
You need to rent a skip bin or dumpster to dispose of non-hazardous materials. Non-hazardous materials include drywall scraps, wood offcuts, tiles, and general rubbish.
A small skip bin (2-4 cubic metres) costs $300 to $600 per day. A large bin (6-10 cubic metres) can cost $600 to $900.
Hazardous Waste Disposal Costs
Construction sites involve hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead, or mould-contaminated debris. These materials require licensed removalists, protective measures, and certified disposal at authorised facilities.
Removing asbestos in Australia can cost $50–$150 per square metre. Lead paint or chemical waste disposal can add additional charges. This is determined based on weight and handling requirements.
#7 Skill and Expertise Level of the Cleaners
The level of expertise and skill of the cleaning personnel also impact the post-construction cleaning costs. Cleaning companies will pay newbies the minimum wage.
At the same time, they pay higher rates for experienced and highly skilled cleaning personnel. Because experienced cleaners do the most dangerous cleaning tasks like high-rise window cleaning, hazardous object cleaning, etc.
So, your post-construction cleaning cost will vary based on the cleaning team’s skill level.
How to Get the Best Post-construction Cleaning Pricing in Australia
Since different factors impact the price of construction cleaning services, you must make strategic decisions. Here are some strategic steps you can follow to get the best post-construction cleaning pricing.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Search for multiple cleaning companies and get quotes from at least 3 different cleaning companies. Provide your construction cleaning details, including:
- Types of cleaning you need
- The scope of works
- The areas you need to clean
- Your special cleaning needs, etc.
After you provide the information, the cleaning companies should visit your site and give you a quote. Based on your needs, compare which company offers the best pricing.
Determine Your Cleaning Needs and Customise the Services
If you don’t need a deep post-construction cleaning, don’t go for it. It is not a wise decision to pay extra if particular cleaning requirements can fulfil your needs. Go for a package deal instead of separate services.
For example, combine debris removal and floor cleaning into a package deal. Such a combination is affordable and much more cost-effective.
Schedule Cleaning Services Efficiently
Book your cleaning services during the off-peak season, particularly between June and August. The demand for cleaning in the winter season is lower in Australia.
So, you have a chance to get a lower price than during the hot summer season. Also, plan and book your cleaning services earlier.
Use Contractor Discounts
Ask your construction company if they have a partnership with any cleaning company. If so, you can get a decent discount.
Consider Which Price Structure Is the Best Fit
Both flat rate and hourly rates are available to pay. So, you can choose any one of them. However, it is a matter of analysis to determine which one is the best for your construction project.
You can get help from your construction partner to determine the area of your project that needs to be cleaned.
Final Thoughts
Learning the factors that impact the price of construction cleaning helps you make informed decisions. You are now knowledgeable about which factors you need to deal with to get the best price for your construction cleaning services.
To get the best price of construction cleaning services, contact Eco Cleaning Brisbane. We have been providing cleaning services across Brisbane for over 20 years, including construction cleaning services.
We are committed to ensuring you receive the best services at the best price. When you come to us, we take responsibility for your cleaning. Be assured that your new building will be clean and safe to accommodate you from the first day.
