A professional cleaning quotation helps you win jobs and set clear expectations. Here's what to include, how to price, and a template to follow.
Why Your Quotation Wins or Loses the Job
In the cleaning industry, price matters — but it's not the only factor. A well-structured quotation that shows professionalism, specifies exactly what's included, and sets clear expectations often wins over a cheaper competitor whose quote is vague.
Clients choosing a cleaner want to know: what exactly will you do, how often, for how much, and what happens if they need to change or cancel? Answer those questions clearly and you'll convert more quotes to clients.
What to Include in a Cleaning Quotation
Your business details: Name, trading name, contact information, insurance and licence details if applicable.
Client details: The client's name and the property address.
Quote number and date: For your records and professional appearance.
Scope of services: This is the most important section. List exactly what is included. Be specific:
For regular domestic cleaning:
For commercial cleaning:
Frequency: One-off, weekly, fortnightly, monthly.
Duration per visit: Estimated hours per clean, especially important for hourly-rate quotes.
Price: Total price per clean, or monthly total for regular services. State whether GST/VAT is included or excluded.
What's provided: Your products and equipment, or the client's?
Validity period: "This quotation is valid for 30 days."
Cancellation policy: How much notice is required to cancel or reschedule a booking.
Payment terms: When payment is due (typically on or shortly after the clean).
Pricing Your Cleaning Quote
Common pricing approaches:
Per hour: Straightforward. $30–60/hr depending on location and type. Quote the estimated hours. Risk: if a job takes longer than estimated, you either absorb the extra cost or have an awkward conversation.
Per room / per area: Fixed price per bedroom, bathroom, etc. E.g. $25 per bedroom, $35 per bathroom. Easy for clients to understand.
Fixed price per visit: Calculate your estimated time, apply your hourly rate, and quote a flat fee. "Regular fortnightly clean — $180 per visit." Clean, simple, and no time disputes.
Square metre rate: Common for commercial cleaning. Calculate based on the size of the premises.
Always inspect the property before quoting for regular commercial contracts or large homes. A quote made blind often leads to under-pricing.
One-Off vs Regular Cleaning Quotes
Quote these differently:
One-off (end of tenancy, spring clean): These are more intensive and typically priced higher per hour than regular cleaning. Be very specific about what's included and what isn't — end of tenancy cleans especially can involve disputes if expectations aren't set.
Regular cleaning: Quote the regular visit price and make clear it's based on maintaining a reasonable standard between visits. If the property is unusually dirty at a visit, you may charge extra.
Following Up on Quotes
Send the quote by email with a PDF attachment. Follow up after 3–5 days if no response. Many clients get quotes from multiple cleaners — a polite follow-up demonstrates interest and professionalism.
If a client declines on price, ask whether it's the total or a specific item. Sometimes a small adjustment or removing a non-priority task is enough to win the job.
Creating Cleaning Quotes with Quotation Expert
Quotation Expert lets you build a service catalogue with your standard cleaning packages and prices. When quoting a new client, select the services, adjust quantities if needed, and send a professional PDF quote in minutes. Accepted quotes convert to invoices automatically, and recurring billing handles regular clients without manual re-invoicing each visit.
Try it free
Ready to simplify your business?
Create professional invoices, track expenses, and manage your business — all in one place. Free to start, no credit card required.