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Types of cleaning and what's included

What Is After Builders Cleaning?

Building work leaves fine dust everywhere, and it keeps coming back if it's simply wiped around. Here's what a post-construction clean involves and how to plan one.

3 min read · Updated November 2026

Illustration of a cleaner vacuuming builders' dust from a newly renovated room

What after builders cleaning means

After builders cleaning – also called post-construction or post-renovation cleaning – is a thorough clean once building work has finished. It focuses on fine dust from plastering, sanding and cutting, protective film and labels on new fittings, plaster splashes and adhesive residue, and the detail cleaning of glass, sanitaryware and floors.

It's normally a bigger job than a deep clean and is quoted individually, often after photos or a visit.

Why builders' dust is different

Construction dust is much finer than household dust. It settles on every surface, inside cupboards and on top of door frames, and stays in the air for some time. Cutting and sanding certain materials can produce dust containing silica, which shouldn't be breathed in.

Many after builders cleaners use vacuums with fine filters and work from the top of each room down. It's common for a second, lighter clean to be useful a few days later as dust continues to settle.

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What's usually included

Scope varies, so compare task lists. A typical clean covers:

  • Dust removal from all surfaces, top to bottom
  • Inside and outside cupboards, drawers and wardrobes
  • Removing protective film, stickers and labels where safe
  • Cleaning windows, frames, sills and door glass
  • Cleaning new sanitaryware, tiles and fittings
  • Vacuuming and washing floors
  • Wiping light switches, door handles and other touch points

When to book

Book the clean for after every trade has finished, including any finishing work, or it will need doing again. If carpets are being fitted or furniture delivered, schedule the main clean before they arrive where you can.

Share any care guidance for new surfaces such as natural stone, timber floors or specialist worktops, so the cleaners can use suitable products.

Common questions

How much does after builders cleaning cost?

It varies widely with the size of the job and the dust levels. Our cleaning prices guide shows indicative ranges from published UK guides.

Can I clean up after builders myself?

You can, but fine dust clogs household vacuums and spreads easily. Fine-filter vacuums and a top-down approach help.

Do new build homes need after builders cleaning?

Many new homes are handed over with dust in cupboards and on surfaces. A new build or 'sparkle' clean before moving in is common.

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