So, your construction or renovation project is finally over and it’s time to move in. But before you do that, there’s an important step – post construction cleaning! It doesn’t apply for offices but also homes; a hygienic environment goes hand-in-hand with health and safety of yourself and loved ones.

Following this list will make sure that even the tiniest detail has been checked off before you settle into your new space.

Table of contents

  1. Pre-Clean Preparation
  2. Room-by-room Post Construction Cleaning Checklist
    1. Entryway
    2. Living / Common Areas
    3. Kitchens
    4. Bathrooms
    5. Bedrooms
    6. Outdoor Spaces / Landscaping

Pre-Clean Preparation:

Before you tackle a cleaning project, it’s important to prepare properly for safety and effectiveness.  With these basic precautions in place, your cleaning job will go much smoother!

A. Safety Measures: 

Step one for cleaning is being safe. So, give your whole squad some gloves and masks to wear. Before you start with the scrubbing action, check that everything around is clear of anything dangerous that can make things go wrong or cause accidents!

B. Gather Cleaning Supplies: 

Get ready for your clean by getting all the necessary cleaning supplies beforehand. You’ll need items like cleaner sprays (for windows and everything else), mops, brooms, vacuums, microfiber cloths – basically anything you can think of to help get rid of dirt and junk after that construction work! And don’t forget gloves and masks too!

C. Plan the Cleaning Order: 

When it comes to cleaning, having a plan is key. Start at the top and work your way down – that means tackling ceilings or light fixtures first. Make sure you focus on areas with lots of dirt or stains for maximum efficiency while you clean!

Room-by-Room Post Construction Cleaning Checklist:

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of cleaning up after builders. We’ll walk you through a room-by-room checklist that works for both homes and businesses.

I. Entryway:

Before the new owner arrives, make sure to inspect and clean all doors leading into the building. These areas are important as they create a first impression for visitors.

  • Dust exterior lights so that they appear spotless and bright
  • Make sure all lights in this area are working correctly before their arrival
  • Wipe down windows using cleaning products suitable for glass surfaces. Clean doors, door frames & doorknobs of fingerprints and streaks 
  • Sweep entrance ways of any dirt pushed inside by feet over time

II. Living/Common Areas

Make sure the living rooms and common areas are looking clean before moving in.

  • Sweep or vacuum/mop floors to get rid of dirt
  • Check all lights, make sure they’re working properly without any dust
  • Clean doorknobs and light switches with a damp cloth 
  • Take some time to wipe down window sills/tracks for dust buildup
  • Look out for paint drops on the floor/walls that shouldn’t be there, also scuff marks need to go too!
  • Remove any rubbish
  • Doors and doorframes wiped

III. Kitchens

Kitchens can be tricky spaces with lots of nooks and crannies that need attention. Make sure everything in your kitchen is clean and functional before you move in.

  • Dust all surfaces thoroughly—shelving, counters, etc.—to make them shine. 
  • Appliances are often overlooked but important: give them a good scrub down both inside and out.
  • Cabinets provide ample space for dirt buildup; wipe down shelves so they sparkle! Make sure cabinet hardware isn’t loose or dirty while giving it some extra love.
  • Floors should also get plenty of attention when cleaning—with heavy traffic comes stains! Sweep beforehand then mop/vacuum until they gleam again. 
  • Windows may not seem like much to worry about at first glance—but examine those window sills/tracks as well (spiders like to hide here).  
  • Rid any old trash/leftovers cluttering countertops/drawers—they only clutter any newly revitalised kitchens!
  • Inspect the Sink to ensure there’s no build-up around faucets/surrounds etc.

IV. Bathrooms

When it comes to bathrooms, although they may be small in size, they still require thorough cleaning and tidying up at the end of a construction project. Here are some things to tick off when it comes to cleaning up a bathroom after construction work:

  • Make sure the sink, tub and shower area is sparkling clean
  • Don’t forget about disinfecting the toilet!
  • Clean all mirrors, cabinets and counters for that extra shine
  • Sweep floors thoroughly before mopping them – no one likes dirty feet! 
  • Take time with wiping down any inside drawers or cabinets as people tend not to give these areas much attention 
  • Skirting boards also need a good wipe-down using microfiber cloths
  • Light fixtures shouldn’t go uncleaned either; this includes both shades/bulbs themselves AND covers/trim pieces surrounding each light fixture 
  • Don’t forget to clean the doorknobs
  • Remove any rubbish

V. Bedrooms

Make sure your bedrooms are clean and spotless before you move into the new house. Here are some things that you need to tick off. 

  • Keep your bedroom clean by removing rubbish
  • Dust the light fixtures
  • Ensure the floor, walls and windows are spotless.
  • Clean inside of closets
  • Dust ceiling fans & built-in shelves 
  • Wipe down baseboards 
  • Clear out any grates or vents that may become clogged or dusty
  • Don’t forget to remove the paint on hinges

VI. Outdoor Spaces/ Landscaping

Before wrapping up the post-construction cleaning, do a thorough scan of the property’s exterior.  Check for any debris left behind – packaging, tape and plastic materials should all be cleared out.  Dispose of these items responsibly and recycle wherever possible (your local Council may be able to help with this!)

  • Check outside for any leftover construction materials or debris.
  • Pick up and properly dispose of all rubbish, packaging, tape, plastic from the property
  • Sweep or pressure clean walkways to remove any dirt or dust buildup
  • Clean porches, decks and patios by sweeping them completely to make sure nothing is left behind 
  • Make sure the garage door is clean so that it operates smoothly when opening/closing
  • Don’t forget to check and clean your mailbox

Whether you’re opening a new business or moving into a new home, it’s important to give your space a thorough clean. A Builder Clean is especially crucial for ensuring that all construction debris and dust have been removed from the area. By following these steps closely — without skipping any critical areas like corners of skirting boards — you’ll be able to create an environment that feels brand-new!