Free Cleaning Estimate Template

A cleaning estimate should include your business details, the customer's information, the type of cleaning (standard, deep clean, move-in/move-out, post-construction), a breakdown of services by room or area, square footage, frequency (one-time, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly), number of cleaners and estimated hours, supplies included or excluded, and a total with an expiration date.

Most cleaning businesses estimate by square footage, number of rooms, or hours — depending on the job type. Residential cleaning typically runs $0.05–$0.15 per square foot for standard cleaning, or $25–$50 per hour per cleaner. Commercial cleaning is usually priced per square foot ($0.05–$0.20) on a recurring contract. Walk the space first whenever possible — photos miss details like clutter level, pet hair, and surface condition.

Per-job (flat rate) is better for most cleaning businesses. It rewards efficiency, gives the customer a clear price upfront, and eliminates arguments about how long the job took. Estimate your hours internally to set the flat rate, but present a single price to the customer. Hourly pricing makes sense for unpredictable jobs like post-construction cleanup or hoarding situations where you can't assess the scope in advance.

Deep cleaning takes 2–3× longer than standard cleaning. Add line items for: inside appliances (oven, fridge, microwave), baseboard and trim scrubbing, window sill and track cleaning, light fixture and ceiling fan dusting, inside cabinet wipe-down, grout scrubbing, and wall spot-cleaning. Walk through the space or ask for photos, and note the current condition — a home that hasn't been deep-cleaned in a year takes longer than one on a regular maintenance schedule.

State it clearly either way. Most professional cleaning companies include standard supplies (all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant, microfiber cloths, mop solution) in their pricing. If the customer wants specific eco-friendly or specialty products, list those as a separate line item. For commercial contracts, some clients provide their own supplies — note this in the estimate terms so there's no confusion.

Most cleaning businesses set estimates to expire in 30 days. For recurring service contracts, the estimate should specify a start date and how long the pricing holds (typically 6–12 months). Include a clause that prices may adjust annually based on labor and supply costs.

Move-in/move-out cleanings are deep cleans plus extras: inside all cabinets and drawers, inside the oven and fridge, window tracks, closet shelves, garage sweep, and sometimes carpet cleaning. Price 2–3× your standard cleaning rate. Always ask if the space is empty (faster) or furnished (slower), and whether carpet cleaning or window washing is expected — those are often separate line items.

Calculate your per-square-foot rate based on: facility type (office, medical, retail — each has different standards), cleaning frequency, number of restrooms, floor type (carpet vs. hard floor), and any special requirements (OSHA compliance, after-hours access, security clearance). Present a monthly rate on the estimate. Most commercial cleaners bid at $0.05–$0.20 per square foot per visit depending on scope and frequency.

Yes — for first-time clients and any job over $200, a walkthrough (in person or video call) is worth the time. Photos miss clutter levels, pet damage, ceiling heights, and surface conditions. A walkthrough also builds trust: the customer sees you're thorough, and you can upsell services they didn't know they needed. For small recurring residential jobs, a phone call with a few photos may be enough.

List common add-ons as optional line items on the estimate: inside fridge, inside oven, window washing, laundry, organizing, carpet spot treatment, and pet hair removal. This lets the customer choose their level of service without requiring a new estimate. It also increases average job value — most customers add at least one extra when it's presented clearly with pricing.