Post-Construction Apartment Cleaning Pricing 2026 — Cracow and Katowice

Introduction

Post-construction apartment cleaning is an investment that ensures safe and comfortable occupancy of a unit received from the developer. The price of the service depends on square footage, technical condition of the property, number of windows and bathrooms, and the type of finishing materials used. In 2026, in Cracow and Katowice, average market rates for apartment cleaning in developer condition range from PLN 1,200 net for 50 m² to PLN 4,800 net for 120 m² in the premium standard.

Clients taking keys from Atal, Develia, Echo Investment, or Robyg frequently ask: how much does professional removal of construction debris, cement dust, and mounting protection cost? From our observations, comprehensive post-construction cleaning in an apartment typically takes 8–16 working hours, depending on surface area and contamination levels. In this guide, we present a detailed post-construction cleaning pricing along with analysis of all factors affecting the final quotation.

In brief

• 50 m² — standard developer condition: PLN 1,200–2,400 net (Cracow/Katowice, 2026)
• 80 m² — average size with two bathrooms: PLN 1,600–3,000 net
• 120 m² — premium (hardwood floors, large windows, 3 bathrooms): PLN 2,800–4,800 net
• 3-stage package (rough cleaning → window and tile washing → final polishing) increases price by 15–25%
• Technical site visit is standard at Reefa — enables quotation accuracy to within 5%
• Liability insurance up to PLN 500,000 covers damage to the new apartment during cleaning

How much does post-construction apartment cleaning cost in 2026?

Current rates in the Cracow and Katowice market are based on several key parameters: square footage, number of wet rooms, flooring and window types, and contamination levels. Below we present a market benchmark based on 2025/2026 data — quotations concern developer condition, i.e., a unit after finishing work completion, before the first owner moves in.

Standard condition means laminate or ceramic tiles, 1–2 bathrooms, standard PVC windows, no hard-to-reach glazed surfaces. Premium condition includes hardwood parquet or multi-layer engineered flooring, large glazing (terraces, French balconies), 2–3 bathrooms with walk-in shower and linear drain, materials requiring specialist products (e.g., marble, granite).

In practice, every quotation requires a site visit. The Reefa team, as part of a complimentary audit, prepares a detailed cost estimate accounting for actual surface areas, contamination types, and additional services (e.g., natural stone impregnation or parquet maintenance). Details on basic rates are available in the service pricing section.

What factors affect post-construction cleaning prices?

Pricing is not limited to square footage alone. From our observations in 2025/2026, the following elements have the greatest impact on the final calculation.

Number and type of windows

Windows in a developer apartment are typically protected with protective film that leaves adhesive residue and accumulates construction dust. Standard coverage is 1.5–2 m² of glazing per window; removing protection and thorough washing takes 20–30 minutes per double-hung window.

Large glazing — sliding terraces of 6–10 m² surface area, panoramic windows, or glass walls in kitchenettes — increases labor intensity by up to 40%. In premium units (e.g., Echo Investment developments on Zabłocie in Cracow) with all-glass finishing, window cleaning can account for 25–35% of the total cost.

Number of bathrooms and their equipment

A shower enclosure with linear drain and glass panels requires careful removal of silicone sealant, cement residue, and limescale. One complete bathroom (toilet, sink, shower) consumes an average of 1.5–2 working hours in post-construction cleaning.

Two- or three-bathroom apartments (master bath, guest bath, ensuite toilet) automatically increase the cost by PLN 300–600 net per additional bathroom. Premium fixtures — freestanding tubs, rainfall showerheads, large-format tiles (120×280 cm) — require specialized anti-corrosion detergents and increase the rate by another 10–15%.

Type of finishing materials

Floors in developer condition vary in cleaning technology:

• Ceramic tiles and grout — relatively easy for cement mortar, grout residue, and sealant removal; cleaning 1 m² takes approximately 3–5 minutes.
• Laminate and LVT panels — sensitive to excess water; requires pH-neutral products and microfiber; 1 m² takes 4–6 minutes.
• Hardwood parquet — most demanding to maintain; requires gentle detergents, buffing, and in some cases wax or oil impregnation; 1 m² takes 6–10 minutes plus drying time.

Similarly for walls: washable emulsion paint allows quick stain removal, while textured plaster or wallpaper require dry cleaning method (HEPA vacuuming + dry sponge).

Contamination level and media access

Units after technical handover vary in the degree of rough cleaning performed by the finishing crew. If the developer or contractor completed initial removal of debris and dust, labor intensity drops by 20–30%. Conversely, when water, electricity, or cargo elevators are unavailable (low-rise buildings) — costs may increase by 15–25%.

Access via service elevator to higher floors (>10) is standard in Class A office buildings, but in residential buildings, cargo lifts may be unavailable on cleaning day, requiring equipment (mops, buckets, single-disc machines) to be carried upstairs and extending execution time.

3-stage package vs. single-stage cleaning — which to choose?

In professional post-construction cleaning, two main service models are used.

Single-stage cleaning

This is the most frequently selected option for apartments up to 60 m². The Reefa team arrives once and completes all work in one day (or two, depending on size and complexity). It includes:

1. Removal of window, floor, and sill protection.
2. HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces (ceilings, walls, floors).
3. Window washing (both sides, frames, sills).
4. Tile, bathroom, and fixture cleaning.
5. Floor washing using wet-mop or single-disc machine.
6. Polishing chrome details and glazing.

The cost of single-stage cleaning for 50 m² in Cracow averages PLN 1,200–1,600 net (2026), with 8–10 working hours by a two-person team.

3-stage protocol package

Used in units >80 m², especially premium ones, where the developer requires a documented clean-state handover or the owner needs perfect preparation for move-in.

Stage 1 — Rough cleaning
Removal of protection, heavy dust layers, material remnants. Takes 1–2 days.

Stage 2 — Deep cleaning
Window washing, bathroom cleaning, tile work, floor and wall stain removal. Takes 1 day, 24–48 hours after Stage 1 (time for suspended dust to settle).

Stage 3 — Final polishing
Quality control, detail touch-ups, mirror and chrome polishing, parquet maintenance. Takes 0.5–1 day.

The 3-stage package increases price by 15–25% versus single-stage, but guarantees cleanliness levels accepted by the highest developer standards (e.g., Atal Premium, Robyg Apartments).

Real market prices in Cracow and Katowice — 2026 benchmark

Based on public calculations by cleaning firms and data collected by Reefa from site visits in Q1 2026, here are representative rates for typical units in developer investments.

Reefa's offer is typically 5–10% below the market average due to high team efficiency (average contract duration 2.4 years, staff employed exclusively on employment contracts) and no intermediary costs (direct customer service). Additionally, all assignments are covered by liability insurance up to PLN 500,000, which is important for new apartments with finishing value often exceeding PLN 100,000.

A detailed pricing calculator is available at post-construction cleaning calculator — it enables preliminary cost simulation depending on input parameters (square footage, number of windows, floor type).

What affects quotation after a site visit?

A site visit is a standard element of the process at Reefa — it is free and lasts 20–30 minutes. During inspection, a specialist assesses actual conditions and prepares a detailed cost estimate.

Parameters verified during audit

1. Actual usable area — developer floor plans account for wall-to-wall area; in practice this may differ by 3–8% from the notarial deed area.
2. Type and condition of protection — protective film on windows varies in quality; cheap film after prolonged drying leaves difficult-to-remove adhesive residue layers.
3. Access to water and electricity — in some units water or power may be temporarily disconnected, requiring coordination with the developer or use of power generators.
4. Condition of seals and joints — excess silicone, mortar residue, or tile unevenness increases labor intensity by 10–20%.
5. Additional services — natural stone impregnation, parquet oil maintenance, blind cleaning, or balcony/terrace washing.

After the visit, the client receives a written quotation with cost breakdown by item (m² of flooring, number of windows, bathrooms, additional work) and price guarantee — as long as the property condition does not change, the quotation remains binding for 30 days.

What might increase price compared to initial estimate?

• Additional windows or glazing not indicated in floor plans.
• Soiling from installation work (pipes, wiring, range hoods) not mentioned in the developer brief.
• Urgent deadline (completion within <48 hours of request) — Reefa charges an additional 15% express surcharge.
• No cargo elevator in buildings >5 floors — 10% added for each floor above the 5th.

Comparison: Reefa vs. market average — added value

Clients often ask why choosing a specialized cleaning company is better than hiring an unspecialized team or doing it themselves. Here are key differences in Reefa's offer versus commonly available services.

High retention rate (96%) at Reefa results from consistent quality protocols (SLA with <24h response time for correction requests) and the fact that the same team serves the client throughout the engagement — averaging 2.4 years.

Additionally, cleaning agents certified by EU Ecolabel minimize allergy risk and are safe for families with children moving in shortly after post-construction cleaning. In medical facilities or with anti-allergen requirements, we use HACCP-compliant products.

Post-developer handover cleaning — typical timeline

When planning professional cleaning, it's worth synchronizing it with key apartment inspection milestones.

Week -2 (before technical handover)
Reserve a technical site visit time with Reefa. Coordinate with the developer's representative about unit access, water, and electricity availability.

Week -1 (technical handover from developer)
Document defects in a protocol. Verify whether the finishing crew completed rough cleaning (removal of debris, sawdust, material remnants).

Day 0 (Reefa technical site visit)
Unit inspection, actual measurement, preparation of detailed quotation.

Days +2–5 (cleaning execution)
In single-stage model: 1–2 days of work. In 3-stage model: spread over 4–7 days with technological breaks.

Day +7 (quality control and handover)
Final inspection by Reefa's coordinator. Cleanliness protocol provided to client. Start of 30-day warranty period.

Day +30 (possible correction visit)
If during move-in the owner notices a detail requiring correction (e.g., streaks on a hard-to-reach window), the Reefa team returns at no charge under warranty.

Additional services in post-construction cleaning package

Beyond standard scope, many premium apartments require specialized additional services.

Impregnation and maintenance

• Hardwood parquet — oiling or waxing after cleaning (PLN 50–80 net/m²).
• Natural stone (marble, granite, travertine) — hydrophobic impregnation preventing stain penetration (PLN 60–100 net/m²).
• Polished ceramic — nano-impregnation for slip resistance (PLN 30–50 net/m²).

Cleaning additional elements

• Horizontal/vertical blinds — PLN 15–25 net per m² of slats.
• External roller shutters — PLN 40–60 net per piece.
• Patios and balconies — PLN 20–40 net/m² depending on surface (wood, composite, ceramic).
• Range hoods — filter removal, degreasing, reinstallation — PLN 80–120 net per hood.

Ancillary services

• Sticker and label removal from appliances, fixtures, mirrors — PLN 5–10 net per item.
• Steam cleaning of seals and hard-to-reach edges — adds 10% to standard price.
• ULV disinfection (ultra-low volume) after completion of construction work — PLN 150–300 net (entire unit).

The additional services offer is flexible and always discussed at the site visit stage. More information on comprehensive service can be found in the post-renovation cleaning section.

How to prepare the unit for the cleaning team's arrival

To minimize execution time and reduce risk of additional costs, it's worth ensuring several issues before the Reefa team arrives.

1. Ensure access to water and electricity — minimum two power outlets (230V) in different rooms, water pressure ≥2 bar.
2. Remove construction debris and packaging — the team does not perform waste removal; if the unit requires prior clearance, this should be mentioned during the site visit.
3. Report any defects — tile cracks, loose joints, floor unevenness, so the coordinator can note them in the protocol and avoid responsibility for pre-existing damage.
4. Check service elevator operation — if the building has cargo lifts, reserve access hours (often require manager approval).
5. Organize parking for the team — if the investment has parking restrictions, arrange passes or designate a space in advance.

A well-prepared unit saves 1–2 working hours, which for an 80 m² apartment may reduce cost by PLN 100–200 net.

Developer apartments: specifics of Atal, Develia, Echo, and Robyg

Different developer companies use different finishing standards and handover procedures — this affects the scope of post-construction cleaning.

Atal (Nowe Czyżyny, Parkowe)
Standard PVC film protection, ceramic tile or laminate floors, shower enclosure bathrooms. Rough cleaning is typically performed by the finishing crew, reducing labor intensity by ~20%. Apartments 50–70 m² require single-stage cleaning.

Develia (Novum Apartments, Park District)
Premium finish: three-layer parquet, large balcony glazing, often 2–3 bathrooms. No pre-cleaning by developer. 3-stage model recommended, price higher by 15–20% versus standard.

Echo Investment (Zakrzówek City, Warsaw Breweries)
High-end materials: marble in bathrooms, oiled wood floors, all-glass glazing. Natural stone impregnation and parquet maintenance required. 80 m² cleaning price starts from PLN 2,400 net (2026).

Robyg (Apartments by the Park, Sunny Estate)
Mid-market: LVT panels, standard glazing, one or two bathrooms. Rough cleaning may vary — check in the handover protocol. 60 m² cleaning averages PLN 1,600–1,900 net.

From our observations in 2025/2026, customers buying Develia and Echo Investment units more often choose the 3-stage model, while Atal and Robyg buyers more frequently opt for single-stage cleaning.

Frequently asked questions

How much does post-construction cleaning for a 50 m² apartment in Cracow cost in 2026?

The average price for post-construction cleaning of a 50 m² apartment in developer condition ranges from PLN 1,200 to PLN 2,400 net. The exact amount depends on the number of windows (typically 4–6), bathrooms (1–2), floor type (laminate, ceramic, parquet), and contamination level left by the finishing crew. In Reefa's standard package for 50 m² with one bathroom and 5 windows, the price is approximately PLN 1,350 net and includes washing all surfaces, removing protection, window and bathroom cleaning, and fixture polishing. A technical site visit enables precise quotation to within 5% accuracy. The detailed post-construction cleaning calculator allows independent cost simulation after entering unit parameters.

Does post-construction cleaning include exterior window washing?

Yes — in Reefa's standard package, windows are washed on both sides (interior and exterior), provided access is safe and possible without alpine techniques. Windows up to the second floor are cleaned using telescopic ladders or mobile scaffolding. For higher floors (3–10), the team uses magnetic systems or water-fed poles with deionization. Windows above the 10th floor without balconies require industrial alpinists — this service is subcontracted and costs PLN 50–80 net per window. During the site visit, the coordinator assesses window accessibility and informs about any additional charges. Two-sided washing is standard, ensuring full transparency and aesthetics from day one of occupancy.

Does the cleaning team have insurance in case of damage to the new apartment?

Yes — every service provided by Reefa is covered by liability insurance (OC) up to PLN 500,000. The policy covers both damage to client property (e.g., scratched tile, damaged parquet, broken window) and potential damage to neighbors (e.g., flooding due to water leakage during cleaning). Before starting work, the client receives a policy copy and a unit condition protocol noting all existing defects (cracks, chips, loose items). This allows precise determination in case of a claim whether damage occurred during cleaning or existed earlier. Our 96% retention rate and 2.4-year average contract duration prove incidents are extremely rare. Personnel employed exclusively on employment contracts undergo regular health and safety training and procedures for working in new facilities.

How long does post-construction cleaning take for an 80 m² apartment?

For an 80 m² apartment in standard single-stage model, execution time is 9 to 12 working hours, translating in practice to 1–2 working days depending on team size. The Reefa team typically consists of 2–3 people, allowing completion within one working day (8–10 net hours). In the 3-stage model, the process extends over 4–7 calendar days with technological breaks (24–48h) between stages for dust settling and surface drying. Execution time depends on floor types — hardwood parquet requires gentler cleaning and longer drying breaks, while ceramic tiles can be washed faster. Additional factors include window count (each double-hung window adds +20–30 minutes) and bathrooms (each bathroom adds +1.5–2 hours). A detailed schedule is agreed at the site visit stage and provided to the client in the written quotation.

Can I perform post-construction cleaning myself and save money?

Self-performed post-construction cleaning is possible but requires time, equipment, and knowledge of cleaning technologies for different materials. From our 2025/2026 observations, the average inexperienced homeowner needs 20–30 working hours for a 60 m² apartment, which at standard professional hourly rates (PLN 100–120 net per working hour) equals service costs (PLN 2,000–3,600). Additional costs include equipment rental or purchase: industrial HEPA vacuum (PLN 150–200/day rental), single-disc machine for floors (PLN 100–150/day), specialist detergents (PLN 200–300 for a set). Risk of damaging delicate materials — e.g., scratching parquet with improper brushes or discoloring marble with wrong-pH products — can generate repair costs of PLN 500+ and more. A professional company guarantees PLN 500,000 liability insurance, certified products, and 30-day cleanliness warranty, eliminating this risk. For budget-conscious customers, a middle option is subcontracting only the most difficult elements (windows, bathrooms) while self-performing floor and wall washing.

What documents do I receive after post-construction cleaning completion?

After work completion, the client receives a document package including: (1) cleanliness handover protocol listing all completed work and signed by Reefa's coordinator and client, (2) VAT invoice (or electronic form if agreed), (3) 30-day warranty card with a contact number for requesting corrections, (4) copy of liability insurance policy confirmed by the insurer. If specialized services were commissioned (stone impregnation, parquet maintenance), product sheets are included with care instructions and product recommendations. The handover protocol is important in the developer apartment acceptance process — many developer contracts require documented unit cleanliness before occupancy. Reefa provides full documentation compliant with RODO (personal data protection regarding property address). We retain all documents in our CRM system for 5 years, enabling easy duplicate retrieval if needed.

Summary and how to order a quotation

Post-construction apartment cleaning in developer condition is an investment ensuring safe, comfortable occupancy and protecting the value of your new unit. In 2026 in Cracow and Katowice, rates range from PLN 1,200 net for 50 m² in basic standard to PLN 4,800 net for 120 m² in premium finishing. Key price factors include number of windows and bathrooms, finishing material type (parquet vs. laminate), contamination levels, and any additional services (impregnation, maintenance).

The Reefa team offers packages tailored to the specifics of Atal, Develia, Echo Investment, and Robyg developments, providing staff employed exclusively on employment contracts, liability insurance up to PLN 500,000, 30-day cleanliness guarantee, and a 96% retention rate. The technical site visit is free and enables quotation accuracy to within 5%.

To order a post-construction cleaning quotation, please contact us via the form on the contact page or call our office directly. Upon submission, the coordinator will schedule a technical visit at your convenience, and a written quotation will be sent within 24 hours of inspection. We invite you to work with us — together we'll prepare your new apartment for safe occupancy.