Should I get the builder to include cleaning costs in the construction contract?

Yes, including post-construction cleaning costs in your construction contract is often a smart move. When cleaning is written into the contract from the start, the builder takes responsibility for delivering the level of clean you agreed on, and you avoid the surprise of a significant additional expense after you have already stretched your renovation or build budget. Quotes for post-construction cleaning of a new build or major renovation in Ottawa can run roughly $800 to $3,000 depending on square footage and complexity, so this is not a trivial line item to overlook.

How to Structure Cleaning in Your Contract

There are two common approaches. The first is a broom-clean clause, which requires the builder to leave the site swept, debris removed, and surfaces roughly wiped down. This is the bare minimum. The second and usually better option is a professional final clean clause, which requires the builder to hire a post-construction cleaning crew to deliver the home in fully move-in condition. Make sure the contract specifies which level of cleaning is included, because the difference in cost and result is enormous.

When negotiating, push for the professional final clean. A broom-clean can leave you with fine construction dust on surfaces, paint overspray on windows, grout haze on tile, and adhesive residue on fixtures. You may end up hiring a cleaning company yourself anyway, and at that point the cost comes out of your pocket rather than the builder's budget. If the builder resists including a full clean, negotiate for a cleaning allowance written into the contract so you can hire your own cleaning crew after the final walkthrough — get a couple of cleaning quotes first so you know what amount to ask for.

It also helps to agree when the cleaning happens. A clean done before the last trades finish can be undone by their dust, so tie the final clean to the end of all work, and ideally to your final walkthrough, so any missed areas can be flagged before you sign off.

Be specific in the contract language about what "clean" means. A good professional clean clause should include HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces, window washing inside and out, floor scrubbing, fixture cleaning, removal of all construction debris from the property, and whether the ductwork will be checked or cleaned if the furnace ran while dusty work was going on. Getting these details in writing prevents disputes at the end of the project. If you need help finding a cleaning company independently, the Ottawa Construction Network directory at justynrookcontracting.com lists local cleaning companies you can contact for quotes and comparison.

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Looking for experienced contractors? The Ottawa Construction Network connects homeowners with qualified professionals:

• Cleanstruction
• RenoMotion Inc.
• ALM Construction & Landscaping Inc.
• Regimbal
• Joe Imerti Contracting