A builders clean runs in three stages: a rough clean once trades finish structural work, a detail clean after fit-out, and a final handover sparkle clean immediately before client inspection. Most Gold Coast projects need all three.
- 1A builders clean runs in stages: rough, detail, and final sparkle before handover.
- 2Construction dust returns for days — the final clean must be the last trade on site.
- 3Silica dust and debris require site-specific PPE and disposal.
- 4Pricing is per sqm and scales with the amount of glass and detail work.
Stage one — rough clean
Bulk debris removal, sweeping, waste segregation and clearing access ways. The goal is a safe, workable site for finishing trades — not presentation. This stage often reveals defects that are far cheaper to fix now than at handover.
| Stage | When | Scope | Typical rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rough clean | After framing / fit-out | Debris removal, rough sweep, bin out | $4 – $8 per sqm |
| Detail clean | After trades finish | All surfaces, fixtures, glass, dust removal | $8 – $14 per sqm |
| Final sparkle | Day before handover | Polish, marks, touch dust, presentation | $3 – $6 per sqm |
Stage two — detail clean
This is the heavy lift: adhesive, paint spots, silicone smears, plaster dust, protective film removal, window tracks, door hardware, cabinetry interiors and light fittings.
Construction dust is fine enough to resettle for days. Detail cleaning should work top-down and include HVAC grilles and ceiling edges, or the site will look dusty again 48 hours later.
- Protective film and sticker removal from glass, joinery and appliances
- Paint, render and silicone removal from tiles, glass and hardware
- Full window clean including tracks, seals and frames
- Cabinetry, drawers and shelving cleaned inside
- Floor treatment appropriate to the finish — sealed, polished or extracted
Stage three — handover sparkle
A light final pass 24 hours before inspection: fingerprints, resettled dust, glass touch-ups, amenity restock and mirrors. It is a small job that disproportionately shapes the client's impression of the entire build.
On coastal Gold Coast sites, external glass and balcony areas need re-checking on the day due to salt spray and wind-blown sand.
Builders clean
One-off- Removes construction dust, adhesive, paint and silicone
- Requires PPE and site induction
- Priced per sqm
- Uses scrapers, blades and industrial vacuums
Regular clean
Ongoing- Maintains an already-clean space
- Standard chemicals and equipment
- Priced per visit or monthly
- Not designed for construction residue
Frequently asked questions
Who pays for the builders clean?+
Usually the builder or head contractor as part of the construction contract. Confirm which stages are included — many contracts fund the rough clean only.
How long before handover should the final clean happen?+
24 to 48 hours, and after all trades have permanently left site. Any trade returning after the clean will undo it.
