Trying to pin down a firm price for commercial cleaning can feel like you're chasing a moving target, right? You just want a straight answer. So here it is. The simple truth is, a standard office clean in Australia will typically set you back somewhere between $30 to $70+ per hour, or $2.50 to $8.00+ per square metre.
That's a pretty wide range, and for good reason. The final number on your quote depends entirely on your specific needs, where you're located, and how your cleaning provider figures out their pricing.
So, What Will Commercial Cleaning Really Cost You?
Let's cut to the chase. You need a clean, safe, and healthy workspace for your team and clients, but you're also working with a budget. Unlike buying something off a shelf, commercial cleaning doesn't come with a simple price tag.
Think of it like getting a quote for a custom-built car. The base model has one price, but as soon as you start adding high-performance parts, a new interior, and a premium sound system… the cost changes dramatically. Cleaning is no different. Understanding the building blocks of a quote is the first step to making a smart decision.
Pricing Models at a Glance
So, how do cleaning companies actually crunch the numbers? It usually comes down to one of a few common models. Knowing the difference is key to comparing quotes and finding what works best for your business.
A Quick Look at Cleaning Pricing Models
Here's a breakdown of how cleaning companies structure their pricing and which model might be the right fit for you.
| Pricing Model | How It Works | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Per Hour | Simple and direct. You pay for the actual time cleaners are on-site working. | Smaller spaces, one-off jobs, or tasks where the scope might vary between visits. |
| Per Square Metre | The price is calculated based on the total floor area to be cleaned. | Larger, more predictable spaces like big offices, warehouses, or retail stores. |
| Fixed Contract Rate | A set price paid weekly, fortnightly or monthly for an agreed scope of work. | Businesses that need predictable budgeting and consistent, regular cleaning schedules. |
Each of these models has its place. A small startup might love the flexibility of an hourly rate, whereas a large corporate headquarters will benefit from the budget certainty of a fixed contract.
Of course, the pricing model is just one piece of the puzzle. To really understand what you're paying for, you need to look at what goes into the service itself. We break down the different types of services in our guide, what is commercial cleaning?.
It's also worth noting that your location in Australia plays a surprisingly big role in the final cost. For instance, commercial cleaning in the Australian Capital Territory often commands premium pricing at $40–$72 per hour. Meanwhile, you might find more budget-friendly options in regional areas of New South Wales or Victoria, with rates closer to $30–$55 per hour. It all comes down to local labour costs and demand.
Breaking Down the Three Main Pricing Models
Alright, let's pull back the curtain on how commercial cleaning quotes are actually put together. It’s not just a number pulled from thin air. Or at least, it shouldn't be. Any professional cleaning company worth its salt uses specific models to calculate a fair and accurate price for the work involved.
Most of the time, it boils down to one of three main approaches. Think of it like choosing a mobile phone plan: you can pay as you go, pay for the exact data you use, or lock in an all-inclusive monthly deal. Each has its place, and understanding them is the first big step towards confidently comparing quotes.
This little decision tree shows how you can think about which model might suit you best, depending on what you value most.
As you can see, the right choice really depends on your business's needs for flexibility, budget predictability, or scale.
The Pay Per Hour Model
This is the most straightforward of the lot. You pay a set rate for each hour a cleaner is physically on-site. Simple. It’s a common choice for smaller businesses or for one-off jobs where the scope isn't totally fixed.
The big advantage is transparency. You're paying for the exact time spent working in your space. But there's a flip side. How do you guarantee efficiency? A slower team will cost you more for the same result, so you're placing a lot of trust in the company's professionalism and work ethic.
A per-hour model works best when there's a high level of trust and clear communication. It's perfect for jobs with variable needs, like a post-event cleanup or an initial deep clean before starting a regular service.
The Per Square Metre Model
This approach is exactly what it sounds like. We measure your usable floor space and apply a rate based on that figure. So, a sprawling 2,000 square metre warehouse will naturally have a higher base cost than a cosy 150 square metre office.
This model is fantastic for larger, more predictable spaces. Think open-plan offices, retail stores, or distribution centres. It provides a clear, scalable cost that’s easy to understand and budget for.
However, it can be a bit blunt. What about areas that need extra attention? A simple square metre rate might not fully account for a large, complex kitchen or multiple high-traffic bathrooms that require far more work than an empty corridor of the same size. This is where a good provider will adjust the rate based on the type of space, not just its size.
The Fixed Contract Rate
This is the all-inclusive option. After a thorough walkthrough and discussion about your needs, we provide a flat fee that you pay weekly, fortnightly, or monthly. This price covers a clearly defined scope of work, performed on a regular schedule.
For most businesses needing consistent, ongoing cleaning, this is the gold standard.
Why? Budget certainty. You know exactly what you’ll be paying each month, with no nasty surprises. It makes financial planning a breeze. This model also encourages a real partnership. A cleaning company is motivated to work efficiently and effectively to deliver on their promise within the agreed price. It’s a win-win that builds a strong, long-term relationship.
The Key Factors That Influence Your Cleaning Quote
Ever lined up a few cleaning quotes and wondered why they're all over the place? Even for businesses that seem similar? It's a common head-scratcher. The truth is, the final price tag is a blend of several ingredients, and the size of your floor is just one part of the recipe.
A lot more goes into calculating a quote than you might think. We're about to pull back the curtain on the key factors that really move the needle on your commercial cleaning costs. Getting your head around these will give you a much clearer idea of what to expect and what you're actually paying for.
Your Facility Type Is a Big Deal
First things first: what kind of business do you run? The answer to this question dramatically changes the cleaning requirements. It's one of the biggest drivers of cost.
Think about it. A quiet, ten-person tech office has completely different needs compared to a bustling medical clinic. One is mostly about dust, bins, and a few coffee cup rings on desks. The other… that demands strict adherence to health codes, clinical sanitisation protocols, and the careful handling of specialised waste.
Here are a few examples to paint the picture:
- Medical and Healthcare Centres need clinical-grade cleaning to prevent cross-contamination. This involves specialised disinfectants and meticulous procedures. The stakes are much higher, and the cost reflects that level of detail.
- Hospitality Venues like restaurants and cafes require intensive kitchen deep cleans, heavy-duty grease removal, and pristine public areas to meet food safety standards.
- Industrial Sites and Warehouses might involve cleaning around large machinery, dealing with industrial grime, and navigating strict workplace health and safety (WHS) regulations in a high-risk environment.
- Childcare Centres have their own set of rules, focusing on non-toxic products and the thorough sanitisation of toys, floors, and nap areas to keep the little ones safe.
A standard office clean is the baseline. As you start adding layers of compliance, risk, and specialised tasks, the cost will naturally climb to match the expertise and time required.
The Scope and Frequency of Service
Next up, what do you actually need done, and how often? This is where the details really matter. A simple request to 'clean the office' can mean a hundred different things.
Are we just talking about a quick vacuum and emptying the bins once a week? Or are you after a comprehensive daily service that includes full bathroom sanitisation, restocking supplies, polishing glass partitions, and deep cleaning the kitchen?
The frequency is also a huge factor. A one-off deep clean after a big event will have a different price structure to a regular, ongoing contract. For instance, a consistent weekly clean often costs between $50 and $100 per visit, while a one-off deep clean could be priced at $150–$200 because it’s far more intensive. Monthly services usually land somewhere in the middle, offering better value than individual bookings.
Getting specific is your best friend here. A detailed checklist, or 'scope of work', ensures there are no misunderstandings. It makes sure you're paying for exactly what you need… and that your cleaning team knows precisely what you expect.
Equipment, Consumables and Labour Costs
Finally, let’s talk about the practical costs of getting the job done right. This covers everything from the tools of the trade to the people who use them.
Specialised jobs often demand specialised equipment. Think industrial floor scrubbers for a warehouse, high-pressure washers for an exterior clean, or steam cleaners for deep carpet sanitation. The use, transport, and maintenance of this gear is factored into the quote.
Then you have the consumables. Things like toilet paper, hand soap, paper towels, and bin liners. Do you want your cleaning company to manage, monitor, and restock these for you? It’s a convenient service that saves you a headache, but it will be included in your total cost.
And of course, there's labour. This isn't just about wages; it includes superannuation, insurance, and other overheads. A significant factor here is the company's workers' compensation experience modification rate, which directly affects their insurance premiums. A reputable company invests in its team, which means paying fair wages and ensuring they're fully insured. This protects both them and your business.
Let's Look at Some Real-World Cleaning Cost Examples
Okay, we've covered the theory. But what does this all look like in practice? It's one thing to talk about pricing models and cost drivers. It’s much easier to get a handle on things when you see real numbers attached to real businesses.
So, let's walk through a few common scenarios. This is where you’ll see exactly how the size, type of business, and specific cleaning needs all come together to form a final quote.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/w2cwfX_taII
Seeing the numbers in context helps connect all the dots, from the square meterage right down to the nitty-gritty details of the cleaning scope.
Scenario 1: The Creative Agency in Melbourne
First up, let’s imagine a trendy little creative agency. They have a cool 150sqm open-plan office tucked away in a Melbourne laneway. The space is mostly desks, with a small meeting room, a kitchenette, and a single bathroom.
Their needs are pretty straightforward.
- Cleaning Frequency: Twice a week, after business hours.
- Scope of Work: The usual stuff—vacuuming carpets, mopping the kitchenette floor, wiping down all desks and surfaces, emptying the bins, and giving the bathroom a full clean and sanitisation.
- Special Requirements: Nothing major, but they’ve requested that only eco-friendly products be used.
For a business like this, a cleaning company would almost certainly propose a fixed monthly contract. This gives the agency a predictable expense they can easily budget for. The quote would be based on the time needed for two cleaners to get the job done efficiently, probably around 1.5 hours per visit.
Taking into account Melbourne's going rates and the cost of specific eco-friendly supplies, the agency would receive a quote that reflects a standard, low-complexity job.
Scenario 2: The Suburban Sydney Medical Practice
Now for something a bit more involved. Picture a medium-sized medical practice in a Sydney suburb, covering about 400sqm. This includes a reception area, several consultation rooms, a treatment room, staff facilities, and multiple patient bathrooms.
This is a completely different ball game. Here, the cleaning requirements are dictated by strict health and safety standards.
- Cleaning Frequency: Five nights a week. In healthcare, you can't afford to skip days.
- Scope of Work: It includes everything from a standard office clean, but with a critical extra layer. We're talking clinical-grade disinfection of all surfaces, careful handling of clinical waste bins, and meticulous sanitisation of high-touch points like door handles, light switches, and reception counters.
- Special Requirements: Must use hospital-grade disinfectants, follow infection control protocols to the letter, and have staff who are specifically trained in cleaning medical facilities.
The commercial cleaning costs here will be significantly higher than for the creative agency. It’s not hard to see why. The risk is greater, the required training is more specialised, and the cleaning products are more expensive. The quote would have to factor in higher labour costs for qualified staff and the daily frequency needed to maintain a safe, sterile clinical environment.
You can see how the type of business is a massive cost driver. It's not just about size; it's about the responsibility and level of detail required to do the job safely and correctly.
Scenario 3: The Brisbane Logistics Warehouse
Finally, let's go big. Imagine a 5,000sqm logistics warehouse near the Port of Brisbane. This space is mostly open floor, with a small office block, a staff lunchroom, and several bathrooms attached.
The main challenge here isn't complexity, but sheer scale.
- Cleaning Frequency: The office area gets done three times a week, while the massive warehouse floor is swept weekly.
- Scope of Work: Standard cleaning for the office and amenities. The big job is the warehouse floor, which needs an industrial ride-on sweeper to manage all the dust and debris efficiently.
- Special Requirements: Cleaners must be inducted into the site’s specific WHS procedures and be comfortable working around heavy machinery after hours.
The quote for this job would be a bit of a hybrid. The office component would be priced much like any standard commercial space. The real cost driver is the warehouse floor. The use, maintenance, and operator time for specialised heavy equipment like an industrial sweeper is a significant factor. The final cost reflects both the detailed work in the small areas and the large-scale, machine-assisted work in the main warehouse.
Sample Annual Cleaning Budget Scenarios
To help you visualise this even better, we've put together a table showing how these factors play out over a year. It’s a great way to see how quickly things can change based on the unique needs of each business.
| Business Type & Location | Size (sqm) | Cleaning Frequency | Scope of Work | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Agency (Melbourne) | 150 | 2x per week | Standard office clean, eco-products | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Medical Practice (Sydney) | 400 | 5x per week | Clinical disinfection, infection control | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| Logistics Warehouse (Brisbane) | 5,000 | 3x weekly (office), 1x weekly (floor) | Standard office, industrial floor sweeping | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| Retail Store (CBD) | 250 | 7x per week | High-traffic floor care, window cleaning | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Small Law Firm (Suburbs) | 200 | 3x per week | Standard office, secure document disposal | $12,000 – $18,000 |
As you can see, two businesses of a similar size can have wildly different cleaning budgets. A small medical practice can easily cost more to clean than a huge warehouse, all because of the specialised scope and daily frequency required to keep it safe. It really brings home the point that a quote is much more than just a price per square metre.
How to Get a Truly Accurate Cleaning Quote
Getting a quote for your commercial cleaning shouldn't be a five-minute phone call that ends with a number pulled out of thin air. It’s not just a transaction. It’s the beginning of a partnership, and any professional cleaning service worth their salt will want to properly understand your business before they even think about the numbers.
Honestly, any quote given without someone physically walking through your space is just a guess. A very rough guess. It’s like a mechanic quoting to fix your car without ever lifting the bonnet.
Why an On-Site Visit Is Non-Negotiable
A walkthrough is where the real discovery happens. It lets a cleaning professional see the things that never show up on a floor plan. They can spot the high-traffic hallways that will need extra attention, see the specific type of flooring you have, and get a genuine feel for the unique rhythm of your workspace.
It’s also your chance to meet them face-to-face. You can ask questions, point out problem areas, and get a sense of whether they’re the right fit for your business culture. This initial meeting really sets the foundation for a successful relationship.
A professional quote isn't just a price; it’s a detailed plan of action. It should outline exactly what will be done, when it will be done, and the standards you can expect. A quote without a walkthrough is just a price list, not a solution.
Key Questions to Ask Any Potential Provider
When you have a potential cleaning partner on-site, it’s your chance to do some digging. Don’t be shy… this is your business we're talking about. A good provider will welcome your questions and have clear, confident answers ready.
Here are a few essential things you should always ask:
- Are you fully insured? Ask to see their Certificate of Currency for Public Liability insurance. This is an absolute must.
- How do you train your staff? You want to hear that they invest in their team with proper training on cleaning techniques, chemical handling, and workplace health and safety.
- What is your quality assurance process? How do they make sure the job is done right, every single time? Do they have supervisors who conduct regular inspections?
- Can you provide references? Hearing from other happy clients is one of the best ways to gauge reliability and service quality.
Asking these questions helps you look beyond the price tag to evaluate the real value a company offers. It’s about ensuring peace of mind and knowing your facility is in safe, professional hands. You can also dive deeper into what should be included in a formal agreement by reading our guide on what to look for in a commercial cleaning contract.
What You Should Have Ready
To help a provider give you the most accurate quote possible, it helps to have some information ready on your end. Think of it like a visit to the doctor. The more information you can share, the better the diagnosis. Have a think about:
- Your ideal cleaning schedule (days and times).
- Any specific security or access procedures they need to know.
- A list of any must-do tasks or known problem areas.
The entire quoting process is a two-way conversation. It’s all about working together to build a solid foundation for a great service.
Finding the Balance Between Cost and Quality
It’s always tempting to just grab the cheapest quote, isn't it? We’ve all been there. You see a number that looks too good to be true, and a little voice whispers, “Maybe I’ve found a bargain.”
But when it comes to commercial cleaning, the lowest price can quickly become your most expensive headache. A cheap service that cuts corners, uses harsh chemicals that damage surfaces, or sends unreliable, undertrained staff will cost you far more in the long run.
Think about the hidden costs for a moment. There's the time you’ll waste managing complaints, the sheer frustration of getting the job redone properly, and the slow-burn damage to your business's reputation. It all adds up.
This is about finding that sweet spot. That balance between a price that respects your budget and a quality of service that makes your workplace genuinely shine. It's an investment, not just an expense.
How to See Beyond the Price Tag
So, how do you spot the difference between a great value service and one that's just… cheap? A suspiciously low price can be a red flag. It might signal that a company is skimping on essentials like insurance, proper staff wages, or quality equipment.
You need to look a little deeper.
Think of it like buying a car. Two models might look similar on the outside, but one has a rock-solid engine and top safety ratings, while the other is notorious for breaking down. You’d want to know what's under the bonnet before you buy, right? It's the same with cleaning services.
Here are a few things to check for:
- Glowing Testimonials: Look for detailed reviews from businesses similar to yours. Vague, one-line reviews are okay, but specific praise about reliability, attention to detail, and great communication tells a much better story.
- Industry Certifications: Do they hold certifications for things like Quality Management (ISO 9001) or Environmental Management (ISO 14001)? This shows a serious commitment to professional standards.
- Happy, Well-Trained Staff: A company that invests in its team is investing in your service. Ask about their training processes and staff retention. A happy, consistent team is your best guarantee of quality work.
The real value in a cleaning service isn’t just in the tasks they complete; it’s in the peace of mind they provide. It's knowing your workplace is consistently clean, healthy, and safe, without you having to worry about it.
Making an Informed Decision
Choosing the right partner is about empowering yourself with the right information. It’s about asking good questions and looking for signs of professionalism and care. It’s also about having a crystal-clear idea of your own standards and expectations.
A great way to start is by creating a detailed list of your needs. Our comprehensive commercial cleaning checklist can help you define exactly what a quality service looks like for your specific facility.
Ultimately, the best commercial cleaning service costs are the ones that deliver true, lasting value. A clean, healthy, and welcoming environment is a powerful asset for your business. It boosts morale, impresses clients, and shows everyone you care about the details. And that’s an investment worth making.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Costs
We get asked about commercial cleaning costs all the time. So we've gathered the most common queries right here to give you fast, straightforward answers. Think of it as a cheat sheet to get you started. Of course, if you don't see your question here, just give us a call!
Are Cleaning Consumables Included in the Price?
That’s a fantastic question, and one of the most important to ask. The short answer is… it depends entirely on your agreement.
Some quotes will bundle the management and restocking of consumables like toilet paper, hand soap, and paper towels right into the service fee. It’s super convenient. Other companies prefer you to supply your own. Make sure you get clarity on this from the get-go so you can compare quotes accurately and avoid any surprises down the track.
What's the Difference Between a Standard and Deep Clean?
This is a great one. The easiest way to think about it is to compare your quick daily tidy-up at home to a full-on spring clean where you pull everything out and scrub from top to bottom.
A standard clean is your regular maintenance, covering all the essentials needed to keep your workplace hygienic and looking professional. This typically includes:
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
- Wiping down surfaces and desks
- Emptying all bins
- Cleaning and restocking bathrooms
A deep clean is a much more intensive service designed to tackle the grime and build-up that regular cleaning doesn't reach. It might involve deep scrubbing floors, washing walls, and detailed cleaning of light fixtures. Because it takes more time, specialised equipment, and elbow grease, it naturally costs a bit more.
Do I Have to Sign a Long-Term Contract?
Not always. But it's often more cost-effective if you do. Many cleaning companies, including us, can offer better rates for clients who commit to a regular service agreement for six or twelve months. It helps us schedule our teams more efficiently, and we pass those savings straight on to you.
However, a good cleaning partner will always be flexible. If your business needs a one-off deep clean or you'd prefer a more casual month-to-month arrangement, that should absolutely be an option. It’s all about finding a solution that fits your specific situation, not locking you into something that doesn’t feel right.
Ready to get a clear, no-obligation quote that’s built specifically for your business? The team at That Cleaning Crew is here to help. We’ll visit your site for free to understand exactly what you need, ensuring you get a fair and accurate price every time.
