When it comes to keeping your business premises clean and well-maintained, understanding the costs involved is essential for budget planning. Whether you run a small office or a large commercial facility, hiring a professional cleaning service ensures a hygienic, safe, and professional environment for employees and customers. However, commercial cleaning service rates can vary depending on several factors.
In this guide, we’ll break down the typical commercial cleaning service rates in the UK and highlight the key factors that influence these costs, helping you make an informed decision.
How Commercial Cleaning Services Are Priced in the UK
Commercial cleaning companies in the UK typically offer pricing based on several models. These pricing structures can vary depending on the size of your premises, frequency of cleaning, and the type of services required. Common pricing methods include:
- Hourly Rate: Many companies charge an hourly rate, especially for smaller offices or less frequent cleaning needs. The average hourly rate for commercial cleaning services in the UK is between £12 and £20 per hour. However, this can vary based on location and the complexity of the cleaning job.
- Rate per Square Foot/Metre: For larger spaces or regular cleaning contracts, commercial cleaning services may charge based on the size of the area. The average cost typically ranges from £0.10 to £0.30 per square foot, or £1 to £3 per square metre.
- Fixed or Package Rates: Some companies offer fixed rates or package deals, especially for businesses that require regular cleaning services, including more detailed services like window cleaning, carpet cleaning, or disinfection. These package rates often vary based on the scope of work.
Factors That Affect Commercial Cleaning Rates in the UK
Several key factors influence the cost of commercial cleaning services in the UK:
a. Size of the Facility
The larger the space, the more time and resources are required to clean it. Cleaning a small office might cost between £80 and £150 per month, while a larger facility, such as a warehouse or retail store, may cost between £1,000 and £3,000 per month, depending on the level of cleaning required.
b. Frequency of Cleaning
The frequency of cleaning has a significant impact on pricing. A one-off deep clean will typically cost more than a regular weekly or bi-weekly cleaning contract. For instance, a daily cleaning service could cost between £500 and £1,500 per month, depending on the size of the space and the specific tasks involved.
c. Type of Cleaning Services Needed
The types of cleaning services required can also affect costs. Basic services like dusting, vacuuming, and emptying bins are more affordable, while specialised services will increase your overall costs. Some common specialised services include:
- Window Cleaning: Costs typically range from £20 to £50 per window, depending on the size, location, and frequency of cleaning.
- Carpet Cleaning: For carpeted areas, professional cleaning can cost between £1 and £3 per square metre, depending on the type of carpet and the condition.
- Hard Floor Cleaning and Polishing: For businesses with hard flooring (e.g., vinyl, stone, or wood), floor polishing services cost between £2 and £5 per square metre.
- Deep Cleaning and Disinfection: Post-pandemic, there is an increased demand for deep cleaning and disinfection services, which can cost anywhere from £15 to £50 per hour, depending on the size and scope of the area being cleaned.
- After Building Work Cleaning: Post construction cleaning can cost between £15 to £25 per hour depending on the extent of the mess and the size of the area.
d. Location of Your Business
Location plays a crucial role in determining commercial cleaning rates. Businesses in London and other major cities, where the cost of living and labour is higher, can expect to pay more for cleaning services. On average, cleaning services in London can be 10-20% more expensive than in smaller towns and rural areas.
e. Condition of the Premises
The current state of your premises also impacts the price. If the area is particularly dirty or has not been cleaned regularly, the cleaning company may charge a higher fee due to the extra time and effort required. A one-off deep clean for a neglected office could cost significantly more than regular maintenance cleaning.
Commercial Cleaning Costs by Business Type
Different industries require different types of cleaning, which influences the pricing. Here’s a quick breakdown of typical commercial cleaning rates by business type:
- Offices: Basic office cleaning typically costs between £0.10 and £0.30 per square foot or £1 to £3 per square metre. Small offices may pay hourly rates between £12 and £20, while larger offices may be quoted per square foot.
- Medical and Healthcare Facilities: Due to stringent health and safety regulations, healthcare facilities require specialised cleaning, which typically costs between £0.20 and £0.40 per square foot or £2 to £4 per square metre.
- Retail Stores: Retail cleaning costs tend to range from £0.10 to £0.20 per square foot or £1 to £2 per square metre, depending on the size of the store and foot traffic.
- Warehouses and Industrial Facilities: These spaces usually have larger areas and specific cleaning requirements, such as machinery cleaning or dust removal, which can cost between £0.05 and £0.15 per square foot or £0.50 to £1.50 per square metre.
- Restaurants and Hospitality: Due to the need for sanitation in kitchens and dining areas, cleaning costs for restaurants can range between £15 and £50 per hour, or £1 to £3 per square metre, depending on the size of the space and cleaning requirements.
Additional Costs to Consider
While the above gives a good indication of standard rates, there are often additional costs to consider, depending on the specifics of your business:
- Out-of-Hours Cleaning: Many businesses prefer cleaning services outside regular operating hours. Cleaning companies may charge a premium (often 10-20% extra) for out-of-hours work, especially during late nights or weekends.
- Specialised Equipment or Services: If your cleaning needs involve specialised equipment or services, such as industrial pressure washing or pest control, expect to pay more. These services may be offered as part of a cleaning contract or quoted separately.
- Eco-Friendly Cleaning Services: Some cleaning companies offer green or eco-friendly cleaning options, using environmentally safe products. These services tend to cost slightly more, but many businesses opt for them to align with sustainability goals.
How to Get the Best Value from Your Commercial Cleaning Service
To ensure you’re getting value for money when hiring a commercial cleaning company in the UK, consider the following tips:
- Get a Quote: Reach out to a commercial cleaning company get a quote. Make sure to get a detailed breakdown of what’s included in the quote.
- Negotiate: Most cleaning companies are open to negotiating rates, especially if you’re signing a long-term contract or require multiple services.
- Look for Custom Packages: Some companies may offer discounts if you bundle services, such as combining regular cleaning with periodic deep cleaning or window cleaning.
- Check Reviews and References: A cheaper service might not always be the best option. Be sure to check online reviews and request references to ensure the cleaning company is reliable and delivers high-quality work.
For a trusted commercial cleaning service with a proven track record, consider Salem Cleaning Pro. They offer comprehensive cleaning solutions and can provide custom packages tailored to your specific needs. Contact them for a free site evaluation and estimate to see how they can help keep your business in top condition.