How the market prices it
Most commercial cleaning companies quote overhead work per square foot of floor area or as a crew-day rate. AELC Network Providers can also build itemized proposals that list every register, fan, fixture and screen, which makes quotes easier to compare.
| Pricing method | Typical range | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Per floor square foot | $0.05–$0.18 routine; $0.30–$1.00 with grease or lifts | Large open spaces |
| Per item | $5–$50 per item depending on type | Restaurants, offices, medical |
| Per crew-day | About $890–$2,200 per day | Large or complex projects |
| Per linear foot | $0.50–$3.00 | Beams, pipes, ducts, ledges |
Typical item prices
These ranges reflect published market data and AELC time standards for an initial cleaning at standard reach. Maintenance visits usually cost less than the first reset.
| Item | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Supply register or diffuser | $10–$25 |
| Return air grille | $15–$35 |
| Ceiling fan | $15–$50 |
| Light fixture or troffer | $8–$20 |
| TV and display | $10–$30 |
| Security camera or speaker | $5–$15 |
| Exposed beams, pipe or duct | $1.00–$3.00 per linear foot |
| Acoustic ceiling tile | $0.75–$2.50 per sq ft of ceiling |
| FRP wall degreasing | $0.35–$0.75 per sq ft of wall |
What raises or lowers the price
Height is the biggest driver. Work within about 16 feet is fastest; 16 to 24 feet takes longer; anything requiring a lift adds rental cost, commonly $100 to $380 per day. Grease, heavy buildup, large item counts, after-hours scheduling and region also matter. Major coastal metros run roughly 20–40% above national averages.
Example: a 3,500 sq ft restaurant
A restaurant with 24 supply diffusers, 6 returns, 6 ceiling fans, 40 light fixtures, 8 TVs, 6 cameras and speakers, 4 signs and 120 feet of exposed beams typically prices around $1,200 to $1,600 for an initial reset with heavy buildup, and roughly $750 to $950 per quarterly maintenance visit.
Frequently asked questions
Is above-eye-level cleaning priced per square foot?
Often, but itemized pricing is more accurate for restaurants, offices and medical spaces where item counts vary widely.
Is there a minimum charge?
Most providers have a minimum job charge, commonly a few hundred dollars, so bundling items in one visit is more economical.
Last updated October 4, 2026. Cost figures reflect published U.S. market data and AELC time standards; each independent provider sets its own prices.