As a property developer, project manager or someone in charge of commercial builds, you will know how important a good after-builders cleaning checklist is for getting your property ready for handover. Not only does the cleaning of your development have a direct impact on how quickly you can hand over, but it can also influence how compliant the property is to building standards, as well as influence how your property is valued.
As after builder cleaners in London, we’ve seen our fair share of construction sites that benefit from a clear after builders cleaning checklist. After all, as a property developer, your goal is to have everything ready for sale as soon as possible. With this in mind, we have put our heads together as cleaning specialists to create a comprehensive after-builders cleaning checklist that can be used for years to come.
What is a Builders Clean in the UK?
A builder’s clean in the UK is a deep clean of a post-construction site that prioritises getting the building ready for its next step, whether that’s sale or welcoming tenants. These deep cleans typically tackle excess paint, plaster and leftover debris, dust and general grime. All things you can expect to be present after construction.
The difference between a builder’s clean and a sparkle or deep clean is the focus this service has on post-construction sites. Our deep and sparkle cleans are typically focused on mess commonly found in residential properties, whereas our builders’ clean is capable of tackling industry-standard materials such as plaster and paint.
It is usually the responsibility of the contractors to organise cleaning the building, although it is not uncommon for an agreement to be reached between developer and contractor for the former to take responsibility. Most contractors get in touch with us to organise their after-builders clean a few weeks before the estimated completion date. However, we would never discourage anyone from booking well in advance to ensure we can get a full team out to your site.
Why Property Developers Need a Professional After Builders Clean
We understand there are several reasons a property developer might need an after-builders clean. They are good for ensuring the property is ready for:
- Sales viewings
- Tenant occupation
- Practical completion
- Health & safety compliance
- Removes hazardous construction dust (silica, plaster)
- Protects new fixtures and finishes
- Reduces snagging list issues
Ultimately, it comes down to how quickly you want the project to reach completion. The Assertio team is ready and waiting to help you realise this goal.
Our After Builders Cleaning Checklist
Below is our 8-step after-builders cleaning checklist to help you ensure your property is handover-ready. We have also taken the liberty of creating a PDF for you to download and carry with you to the site. If you have any questions or require guidance, we’d be happy to help. Just get in touch.
Pre-Clean Preparation & Safety Checks
Before you begin your after-builders clean, there are a handful of things you should do. While some aren’t strictly cleaning tasks, they are essential for ensuring the job is done properly. Your pre-clean preparation and safety checks should include:
- Site risk assessment – this should be done before touching anything. Think RAMS.
- Assess PPE requirements – reduce risk for your staff.
- Removing excess construction debris – plasterboard and other materials.
- Waste disposal & recycling – where possible, reduce your impact on the environment.
- Ventilation of dust-heavy areas – once the dust has settled, aim to improve ventilation for your cleaning team.
Dust Removal: High & Low-Level Surfaces
You will find that dust is likely to be your biggest challenge when completing an after-builders clean in London. A top tip is not to attempt cleaning dust until a few days after construction has completed. This allows time for the dust to settle and stops you from having to do this more than once. Areas to focus your dust cleaning efforts include:
- Walls
- Ceilings
- Coving
- Light fittings
- Vents
- Smoke detectors
- Skirting boards
- Door frames
- Power sockets
- Light switches
Windows, Glass & Frames
While a lot of dirt and grime goes unnoticed post-construction, an area that is easy to spot is windows, glass, frames and mirrors. Any surface that is designed to be spotless is most easily identifiable when dirty. Your after-builders clean should focus on the removal of:
- Accidental paint splashes.
- Cement residue.
- Adhesive labels left on newly installed windows, etc.
- General cleaning of smudges and smears – think internal & external glass (where accessible).
- Clearing gunk/grime/residue from window tracks and frames.
If you need help getting the best results for your window cleaning, get in touch with our team.
Kitchen Cleaning After Builders
Kitchens typically see the greatest and most thorough cleans; this is due to the perceived hygiene level required to feel comfortable eating and preparing food in that environment. As a property developer looking to impress potential tenants, pay special attention to this area. Your kitchen after-builders clean should include:
- Inside & outside of cabinets
- Worktops (material-specific cleaning)
- Sinks and taps (limescale & residue removal)
- Appliances (externally and internally if required)
Bathroom & Sanitary Area Cleaning
Bathrooms are one of the most important areas of a building to get right with cleaning. An unclean bathroom, toilet, shower or similar can have a massive impact on how your property is perceived in the eyes of the buyer or potential tenant. Your after-builders clean should cover the bathroom completely, including:
- Toilets
- Sinks
- Showers
- Baths
- Mirrors
- Splashbacks
- Grout and tile residue removal
- Chrome polishing
Floors & Hard Surfaces
Floors and hard surfaces are hotspots for dirt build-up due to the amount of traffic they get. Mainly covered in dirt from work boots, a clean floor can make a huge difference to the overall appearance of the building. However, due to the sort of material that can build up on hard surfaces, they can be some of the toughest to clean. Be sure to use the appropriate cleaning solutions so you don’t damage the surface.
Areas to focus your cleaning:
- Tiles
- Wood
- Vinyl
- Stone
- Cement, grout, and paint removal
- Final floor polish if required
Internal Fixtures & Joinery
Internal fixtures such as doors and handles don’t typically gather much dust when in use, but on a construction site, they will more than likely gather some. These should be wiped down before tenants, prospective buyers, or property valuers arrive. To go the extra mile, ensure your after-builders cleaning covers:
- Doors
- Handles
- Built-in wardrobes
- Staircases
- Bannisters
- Radiators
- Pipework
Final Quality Check & Sparkle Finish
Now that you have covered the vast majority of the building with efficient cleaning, it is time to add the final touches and carry out spot checks. These are what get the property fully ready for handover or inspection. By carrying out random spot checks throughout the property, you are able to keep a keen eye on your cleaning standards, ensuring they’re consistent throughout.
FAQs – After Builders Cleaning
Discover a range of the most commonly asked questions (and their answers) by developers looking for after-builders cleaning in the UK.
How Long Does An After-Builders Clean Take?
An after-builders clean can take between 8 hours to several days, depending on the size of the new building. Specialist after-builders cleaners will be able to give you an accurate quote once you enquire.
Is After-Builders Cleaning Required Before Completion?
After-builders cleaning is not strictly required before completion. While there is no law or legislation in the UK saying you have to, it is highly recommended in order to reach the next stage, whether it’s a sale or tenants moving in.
How Much Does After-Builders Cleaning Cost In London?
After-builders cleaning cost is typically quoted on the number of flats, communal areas and their size. Most projects will be quoted a one-off fee, but you can expect a cleaning rate of anywhere upwards of £35 per hour.
Can You Clean Newly Fitted Floors Safely?
Yes, you can clean newly fitted floors safely, but there are considerations to make before starting. We always recommend cleaners begin cleaning at least 48-72 hours after the floor has been laid in order for the glue and dust to settle. This means the cleaning is not only more effective, but also doesn’t damage any newly sealed floors.
Get Your Development Handover Ready with Assertio Services
If you’re a property developer in London with a project nearing the end of construction, now is the perfect time to get in touch with a professional after-builders cleaning company in London. Here at Assertio Services, we specialise in getting properties ready for handover and ensuring they meet the vision of the architect who first designed them. Get in touch to find out more about our after-builders cleaning service and how it could help you.
