Move-In Cleaning for New Ontario Condos
New condo occupancy in Ontario is one of the more surprising cleaning scenarios for first-time buyers — the assumption that a brand-new unit is automatically clean is consistently wrong. Ontario condo developers typically provide a basic cleaning before occupancy, but "basic cleaning" in developer parlance often means a once-over that leaves significant construction residue and is not close to livable-clean standard.
What Developers Typically Clean
Most Ontario developers provide a basic clean that covers: visible floor surfaces swept or vacuumed, countertops wiped, bathroom surfaces wiped. What they typically do not clean thoroughly: oven interior (if appliances included), inside cabinet and drawer interiors, window ledges and tracks, stickers and labels on all surfaces and appliances, drywall dust in corners and on horizontal surfaces, HVAC vents and diffusers.
What Buyers Need to Do
- Sticker removal: New condos come with hundreds of labels — on appliances, windows, plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets. This takes 1–2 hours on its own
- Drywall dust: Fine drywall dust on shelves, windowsills, inside closets, and on cabinet interiors from construction — wipe all surfaces
- Cabinet and drawer interiors: Wipe before putting any contents in — they won't need to be done again for years if cleaned before first use
- Kitchen appliances: Wipe oven interior, refrigerator interior, and range hood before first use
Professional New Condo Move-In Clean
A professional move-in clean for a new Ontario condo typically costs $188–$298 and takes 2–4 hours. Schedule 1–2 days before furniture delivery. Ontario HST (13%) applies.