A clean, empty apartment can make moving day easier, but “move-in cleaning” does not mean the same thing to every provider. Quotes depend on the apartment’s condition and on exactly what you want cleaned, from kitchen cupboards to windows and appliances. Share a clear task list before booking so you can compare like with like.
Related read: how apartment cleaning quotes are built in Israel.
What a move-in clean may cover
With no furniture in the way, a cleaner can reach open floor areas, corners and the inside of empty cupboards more easily. An empty flat is not automatically an easy job, though: built-up grease, bathroom deposits, dust on high surfaces or marks left by previous occupants can all change the work involved. Describe the condition honestly rather than assuming the cleaner will see the same scope you have in mind.
A standard brief may include dusting accessible surfaces, cleaning the kitchen and bathrooms, wiping doors and switches, and washing the floors. Interior cupboards, the oven or fridge, windows, shutters and a balcony may be treated as separate tasks. Ask for the included work in writing, especially if you are working to a handover or move-in schedule.
- Ask whether cupboard and appliance interiors are included.
- List windows, shutters, balcony areas and awkward-to-reach spots separately.
What affects the quote
Floor area matters, but it is only one part of the assessment. The number of rooms and bathrooms, kitchen condition, amount of glazing and access to windows can all affect the time and equipment required. A lightly used apartment is different from one with stubborn kitchen grease, heavy dust or marks that need careful treatment.
The requested extras also matter. Some cleaners bring their own supplies and equipment; others may expect certain items to be available at the property. Ask whether appliance interiors, persistent stains or delicate surfaces are part of the agreed job, and how additional work will be approved if the condition is different from what was described. Photos of each main area can help make the initial conversation more precise.
- Share the location, approximate floor area, room count and current photos.
- Mention heavy soiling and add-on tasks before confirming the booking.
Move-in cleaning is not the same as post-renovation cleaning
An empty apartment clean can focus on dust, cupboards, floors and sanitary areas before belongings arrive. Cleaning after renovation is a different brief: fine construction dust, grout or paint residue and protective-film marks may need a separate assessment. The right method depends on the material, and trying to remove a mark with an unsuitable product can damage a surface.
Tell the cleaner whether renovation work has finished, whether large debris has already been removed and what residue remains. Do not assume that bulky waste removal, dried material removal or specialist window cleaning is included in an ordinary move-in clean. Clear photos or a visit before the work can help both sides agree on the scope and on any tasks that need separate approval.
- Flag renovation dust and residue before requesting a quote.
- Clarify who handles bulky debris and leftover building materials.
How to compare providers and check the result
Compare offers only after confirming that they cover the same tasks. Ask who will attend, whether supplies are provided, how long the clean is expected to take and what happens if extra work is needed. A written message listing included areas and exclusions can prevent confusion, particularly when the apartment has extensive glazing, a balcony or appliances that need attention.
Before the appointment, arrange access and check that water and electricity are available if needed. When the cleaner finishes, walk through the agreed areas in good light: kitchen, bathrooms, floors, cupboards or windows that were part of the brief. If something was missed, point it out promptly and refer to the agreed checklist rather than relying on a broad expectation of a “complete” clean.
- Confirm inclusions and possible extras before work begins.
- Check the agreed areas before moving furniture and boxes into the apartment.
