Post-Construction Cleaning: What Facility Managers Need to Know

<p>After months of construction or renovation, the last thing you want is to delay occupancy because of dust, debris, and construction residue. Post-construction cleaning is a specialized service that requires expertise and the right equipment.</p><h2>Phases of Post-Construction Cleaning</h2><p>Professional post-construction cleaning typically happens in three phases: rough clean (removing large debris), light clean (dusting, wiping, vacuuming), and final clean (detailed cleaning to move-in standards). Each phase serves a specific purpose.</p><h2>Why You Need Specialists</h2><p>Construction dust contains fine particles that can damage HVAC systems, trigger allergic reactions, and settle into every crevice. Specialist cleaners have HEPA-filtered equipment, construction-grade vacuum systems, and the know-how to handle materials like drywall dust, grout haze, and paint overspray.</p><h2>Timeline and Planning</h2><p>Plan for post-construction cleaning well before the project ends. Most providers need at least a week's notice, and larger projects may require multiple days of cleaning. Coordinate with your general contractor to ensure cleaning crews have access as soon as construction is substantially complete.</p><h2>Cost Considerations</h2><p>Post-construction cleaning is typically priced per square foot, ranging from $0.15 to $0.75 depending on the scope and condition. While this represents an additional project cost, skipping or rushing this step can lead to damage claims, air quality issues, and dissatisfied occupants.</p>