Just finished a renovation? Learn what post-renovation cleaning involves, why it takes longer than a regular clean, and how to prepare your home for a thorough construction dust removal.
Renovations transform your home — but they also leave behind a layer of fine dust that gets into everything. Drywall dust, sawdust, paint splatters, adhesive residue, and construction debris require specialised cleaning techniques that go far beyond a normal deep clean.
Why Post-Renovation Cleaning Is Different
Construction dust is not like household dust. Drywall dust particles are as small as 10 microns — fine enough to pass through standard vacuum filters and resettle in the air. It gets into HVAC systems, inside electrical outlets, behind baseboards, and into every crevice. A regular vacuum and mop will not remove it.
- Requires HEPA-filtered vacuums to capture fine particles
- Usually needs 2 passes — rough clean, then detail clean
- Includes areas not normally cleaned: inside vents, behind outlets, inside cabinets
- May require window cleaning, light fixture cleaning, and appliance exteriors
- Takes 2–4x longer than a standard deep clean
What Post-Renovation Cleaning Includes
Pass 1: Rough clean
- 1Remove all large debris, packing materials, and protective coverings
- 2Sweep and vacuum all floors with a HEPA vacuum
- 3Wipe down all walls and ceilings to remove dust film
- 4Clean all windows (both sides) and window tracks
- 5Vacuum inside all cabinets, closets, and drawers
- 6Clean HVAC vents and replace filters
Pass 2: Detail clean
- 1Damp-wipe all surfaces, baseboards, trim, and door frames
- 2Clean all light fixtures and switch plates
- 3Detail-clean kitchen appliances (inside and out)
- 4Scrub bathrooms: tiles, grout, fixtures, glass
- 5Mop all hard floors with appropriate cleaner
- 6Remove paint splatters from glass, hardware, and fixtures
- 7Final vacuum of all carpeted areas
- 8Wipe down all hardware: handles, knobs, hinges
How to Prepare for Your Post-Renovation Clean
- Wait until all construction work is 100% complete, including painting
- Remove personal belongings from the renovation area
- Ensure water and electricity are connected and working
- Let the cleaner know what materials were used (helps them choose safe products)
- Point out any new surfaces that need special care (new hardwood, marble, quartz)
- Allow 24 hours after final paint coat before cleaning begins
Cost Factors
| Bathroom reno only | $200 – $350 |
| Kitchen reno only | $300 – $500 |
| Single room addition | $250 – $450 |
| Full home renovation | $600 – $1,200+ |
| New construction (whole home) | $800 – $2,000+ |
Prices vary based on square footage, renovation scope, number of passes needed, and accessibility. Get a quote from a cleaner who has post-renovation experience — they will assess the site and provide an accurate estimate.
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Get started — it's freeFrequently asked questions
How much does post-renovation cleaning cost in Vancouver?
Post-renovation cleaning in Vancouver typically costs $300–$800+ depending on the scope of the renovation, square footage, and how much dust and debris is present. Small bathroom renos may cost $200–$350, while full-home renovations can exceed $1,000.
How long does a post-renovation clean take?
A post-renovation clean for a single room (bathroom or kitchen) takes 4–6 hours. A full-home renovation clean typically takes a full day or more, often requiring 2 passes — an initial heavy clean followed by a detail clean.
Can I do post-renovation cleaning myself?
You can handle light cleanup, but professional post-renovation cleaning is recommended. Construction dust (especially drywall dust) is extremely fine and settles into HVAC ducts, behind outlets, and inside cabinets. Professionals have HEPA vacuums and know where hidden dust accumulates.
When should I schedule the post-renovation clean?
Schedule the clean after all construction work is complete, including painting. Wait at least 24 hours after final paint coats dry. If there is a final inspection, clean before the inspection so any issues can be caught.