8 Post-Construction Cleanup Questions the Pros Will Ask

Construction from a remodel, new addition, or renovation can give your home plenty of perks, but it comes with a downside: A lot of debris, often in places you’d never expect. And regardless of who is responsible for cleanup after construction, you’ll need some elbow grease after the dust settles to get your home looking its best. That’s why many homeowners choose to arrange a separate cleaning service to help their homes recover from recent construction. When you contact one of the businesses or fill out forms on their website, here are some questions you should be ready to answer.

1. What type of construction cleanup do you need?

The type of work you need done will help you determine who to hire for post-construction cleanup. Be prepared to explain the basics of your construction project, such as whether it was indoors or out and what type of work you had done. For most interior projects, a local house cleaning service can tackle the job.

2. When do you need the cleanup completed?

Be ready for this critical question by reviewing your construction timeline and contract to determine when it will be finished. While construction and remodeling projects often incur delays, the dates in the contract are a good starting point. Arrange cleaning for a day or two after construction is slated to finish.

3. What specific objects or surfaces need to be cleaned?

Cleaners may ask what you want cleaned or what specific objects they should focus on. Possible targets include floors, counters, windows, and walls.

4. Do you need a deep cleaning or final cleaning service?

These are add-on services to general cleaning designed to handle specific issues. Deep cleaning is an extra step for surfaces that may have been stained or caked with dirt during construction. They need extra effort and possibly specialized cleaners and tools.

5. What is the size of your space?

Your cleaner will also ask about the size of the space you need cleaned. If it’s an outdoor project, they may want to know the size of your yard or the new addition to your property.

6. Will you need debris hauling services?

Some cleaners include junk hauling or yard waste removal services in their prices, while others offer them as add-ons. Be prepared to discuss any large debris that won’t fit in your trash.

7. Are there any hazardous materials?

Sometimes, construction can leave behind paints, solvents, or other potentially dangerous products that need to be removed with special care. In other cases, remodeling old work may expose lead paint or asbestos. Be sure to let your cleaners know so they can plan accordingly.

8. How will we access the area?

Expect to field questions about home access, too. Cleaners will want to know how they’ll access your home, if someone will be home to open doors or gates for them, and if there are any other important details about how to get there.