Free Cleaning Estimate Template

Clean spaces create impressions — whether it is a potential homebuyer walking through a freshly cleaned home, a client visiting a spotless office, or a tenant handing back keys after a thorough move-out clean. This free cleaning estimate template gives cleaning companies and independent cleaners a professional format for quoting both one-time cleaning projects and recurring service contracts.

The template covers detailed scope of work definitions, flexible pricing structures (per visit, hourly, per square foot), recurring contract terms, and clear policies on supplies, cancellations, and price adjustments. It works for residential cleaning, commercial cleaning, move-in/move-out cleaning, and specialty cleaning services.

What Is a Cleaning Estimate?

A cleaning estimate is a document that communicates the cost of cleaning services to a prospective client. It is based on a walkthrough (in person or virtual) or a detailed scope provided by the client, during which the cleaner assesses the size of the space, the level of cleaning required, and any special conditions or requirements.

Cleaning estimates are inherently variable because "clean" is subjective and different clients have different expectations. A professional estimate defines the scope of work precisely so both parties have a shared understanding of what "clean" means in the context of this specific job. The more detailed the scope, the fewer disputes over whether a job is complete.

Key Sections of a Cleaning Estimate

Company Information — Company name, contact details, certifications (ISSA, Cleaning Industry Management Standard), bonding and insurance information. For commercial clients, this establishes credibility quickly.

Client and Property Information — Client name, property address, the type of property (residential/commercial), and the date of the estimate.

Service Type — Specify the type of cleaning service:

• One-time deep clean
• Recurring (weekly/bi-weekly/monthly)
• Move-in/move-out clean
• Post-construction clean
• Specialty cleaning (carpet, window, pressure wash)
• Hoarder clean-out

Scope of Work — A detailed, room-by-room or task-by-task list of what will be cleaned. This is the most important section of any cleaning estimate.

For residential cleaning, typical tasks include:

• Dusting all surfaces and reachable areas
• Vacuuming carpets and rugs
• Mopping hard floors
• Cleaning bathrooms (toilet, sink, mirror, shower/tub, floor)
• Cleaning kitchen (counters, stovetop, exterior of appliances, sink)
• Emptying trash
• Making beds (if applicable)
• Wiping door handles and light switches

For commercial cleaning, tasks typically include:

• Emptying all trash receptacles and replacing liners
• Cleaning and sanitizing restrooms
• Dusting and wiping desks, tables, counters
• Vacuuming or sweeping/mopping all floor areas
• Kitchen and breakroom cleaning
• High-dusting (vents, ceiling fans — may be additional)
• Windows and glass surfaces (interior)

Pricing — Per-visit cost, hourly rate, per-square-foot rate, or project flat rate. For recurring contracts, show per-visit and monthly/annual totals.

Supplies and Equipment — State whether the cleaning company provides all supplies and equipment, or if the client is expected to provide them.

Additional Services (Not Included) — Specify what is not included in the base scope: interior oven cleaning, interior fridge cleaning, interior windows, laundry, exterior cleaning, heavy grime removal, mold remediation. These can be offered as add-ons.

Payment Terms — For one-time cleans: payment due upon completion or prior to service. For recurring contracts: invoicing frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly), accepted payment methods, late fee policy.

Contract Terms (Recurring) — Contract duration (month-to-month, 3-month minimum, annual), cancellation notice period, price adjustment provisions.

How to Create a Cleaning Estimate

Step 1: Assess the Space — For residential, count the number of rooms, bathrooms, and any special conditions (pets, children, clutter level). For commercial, measure square footage and assess usage intensity (light office vs. high-traffic retail). Use a standardized checklist to ensure nothing is missed.

Step 2: Determine the Service Level — A light "maintenance clean" of a regularly cleaned home takes less time than a quarterly deep clean or a move-in/move-out clean. Assess the current condition honestly.

Step 3: Set Your Price — Use your standard rate structure (hourly, flat, or per-square-foot). For specialty tasks, have standard add-on pricing ready.

Step 4: Define Exclusions Clearly — Specify what is not included. This prevents scope creep and ensures the client is not surprised when they ask for oven cleaning and it costs extra.

Step 5: Present Options — Offer a base scope and then add-on options: "Our base clean includes X, Y, Z. For an additional $X, we can also clean the interior of the oven and refrigerator."

Sample Cleaning Estimate

Sparkle Standard Cleaning Services

600 Clean Street, Austin, TX 78701

Phone: (555) 789-0123 | Bonded & Insured | ISSA Member

CLEANING ESTIMATE #SSC-2026-0414

Date: April 14, 2026

Valid Until: May 14, 2026

Client: Cornerstone Office Solutions

Property: 900 Congress Avenue, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78701

Property Type: Commercial — 2,800 sq ft office space

Service Type: Recurring Weekly Commercial Cleaning

Scope of Work (Weekly):

• Empty all trash receptacles and replace liners
• Clean and sanitize 3 restrooms (toilets, sinks, mirrors, floors, refill supplies)
• Dust all desks, tables, and counter surfaces
• Wipe down kitchen/breakroom (countertops, sink, exterior of appliances)
• Vacuum all carpeted areas (2,800 sq ft)
• Sweep and mop all hard floor areas
• Wipe interior glass partitions and doors
• Spot-clean high-touch surfaces (door handles, light switches)

Not Included (Available as Add-Ons):

• Interior window cleaning
• Carpet deep extraction
• High dusting (vents, ceiling fans, tops of cubicles)
• Floor waxing or buffing

Contract Term: Month-to-month. Either party may cancel with 30 days written notice.

Supplies: All supplies and equipment provided by Sparkle Standard Cleaning Services.

Payment Terms: Net 15 from invoice date. Invoices sent bi-weekly.

Related Templates

• Free Estimate Template — Universal free estimate for any service.
• Free Estimate Template — Printable — Printer-friendly format.
• Moving Estimate Template — Related service industry estimate.
• Contractor Estimate Template — General contractor format.
• Landscaping Estimate Template — Related outdoor service industry.