New Build Cleaning in Ontario — What Builders Don't Tell You
You've just received the keys to your brand-new Ontario home. It looks clean. The builder's crew has been through. But is it actually clean enough to live in? For most new builds, the answer is no — not by the standard most homeowners expect. Here's what you need to know before you move in.
What Builders Clean (and What They Don't)
What Gets Done
Builder clean-up crews typically: do a basic vacuum and sweep of floors, wipe surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms, and remove visible construction debris. This is adequate for a rough-in inspection but not for a family moving in.
What Gets Left Behind
- Drywall dust — fine gypsum particles that settle on every horizontal surface, inside every cabinet, and in every vent. Standard vacuums re-circulate this dust. It requires HEPA-filter equipment to actually remove it.
- Adhesive residue — protective film is applied to appliances, cabinet hardware, windows, and countertops during construction. When removed, it leaves adhesive residue that requires specific solvents to clean properly.
- Grout haze — when tile grout is applied and wiped, a haze of dried grout film remains on tile surfaces. Builders rarely clean this thoroughly.
- Construction film on floors — hard floors accumulate a layer of construction residue that requires a proper mopping with appropriate cleaners to remove.
- Window manufacturing film — new windows often have a protective manufacturing film that must be removed with appropriate solvents to avoid permanent marks.
- Cabinet interiors — sawdust, drywall dust, and construction debris in every cabinet and drawer.
The HEPA Standard
Drywall dust is the most challenging new-build cleaning problem. Fine gypsum particles — under 10 microns — pass through standard vacuum filters and are recirculated into the air. HEPA-filter vacuums capture 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns — the only effective solution. Every Maidless new-build clean uses HEPA-filter equipment throughout.
New Build Cleaning Prices Across Ontario (2026)
| Home Size | Toronto / GTA | Barrie / Hamilton |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1,500 sq ft | $379–$489 | $339–$439 |
| 1,500–2,500 sq ft | $489–$659 | $439–$589 |
| 2,500–4,000 sq ft | $659–$889 | $589–$799 |
| 4,000+ sq ft | Custom quote | Custom quote |
All prices include Ontario HST. Book at maidless.ca/ontario — same-week availability across all 25+ Ontario cities.