A construction site isn't ready for occupancy until the dust is gone — literally. But "post-construction cleaning" means different things to different providers. Here's what a professional, thorough clean actually includes.

⚠️ Important

This is not "standard janitorial." Post-construction cleaning requires specialized equipment, HEPA filtration, and trained technicians. A regular cleaning crew will leave drywall dust in places you won't see until after you move in.

Phase 1: Rough clean

STEP 1

Debris removal

All large debris, packaging, and construction materials are removed from the site. This includes drywall scraps, wood pieces, wire remnants, and protective floor coverings. The site is cleared for detailed work.

STEP 2

HEPA vacuuming (all surfaces)

Every surface — walls, ceilings, baseboards, window sills, and fixtures — is vacuumed with HEPA-filtered equipment. Standard shop vacuums recirculate fine particles. HEPA filtration captures drywall dust down to 0.3 microns.

STEP 3

Dry dusting

All horizontal and vertical surfaces are dusted using microfiber tools that trap particles rather than spreading them. This includes light fixtures, vents, door frames, and crown molding.

Phase 2: Detailed cleaning

STEP 4

Window and frame cleaning

Interior windows, sills, tracks, and frames are cleaned. Adhesive residue, paint splatters, and construction stickers are removed from glass surfaces. Streak-free finish.

STEP 5

Kitchen/breakroom detail

Cabinets (interior and exterior), countertops, sinks, faucets, and appliances are thoroughly cleaned. All protective films removed. Surfaces sanitized.

STEP 6

Restroom sanitation

Toilets, sinks, mirrors, fixtures, and partitions are cleaned and disinfected. All protective coverings removed. Chrome polished.

STEP 7

HVAC vent cleaning

All supply and return registers are removed, cleaned, and reinstalled. Duct openings vacuumed to prevent construction dust from circulating when the system starts.

Phase 3: Final finish

STEP 8

Floor care

Hard surfaces are mopped with appropriate cleaners. Carpet edges are vacuumed; spots treated. Adhesive removal from floors completed. No sticky residue.

STEP 9

High-touch point disinfection

Light switches, door handles, cabinet pulls, and handrails are disinfected. This is often overlooked but critical for occupancy.

STEP 10

Final HEPA vacuum

A final pass with HEPA vacuums on all floor surfaces. This captures any dust that settled during the cleaning process.

STEP 11

Quality inspection

A supervisor inspects every room against a 50-point checklist. Any deficiencies are corrected before final sign-off.

STEP 12

Client walkthrough

We walk the site with you or your representative. You approve the work. Only then do we consider the job complete.

What's not included (and why)

  • Exterior windows: Separate service requiring different equipment and safety protocols.
  • Post-construction debris hauling: We remove small debris; large dumpster loads are typically handled by the general contractor.
  • Floor stripping/waxing: If new floors require initial stripping and finishing, this is a separate scope.

Planning a renovation or new build?

Schedule your free on-site walkthrough. We'll assess your project and provide a scope-based quote before construction even finishes.

Request Free Walkthrough

MHS Commercial Cleaning has completed post-construction projects throughout Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Bixby, Jenks, Owasso, and Sand Springs. Free on-site walkthroughs available for all commercial projects.