What is the Cost per Square Foot for Commercial Property Clearing?

While a square-foot rule of thumb can be used for a quick preliminary budget for large warehouses or empty-floor cleanouts, it generally provides low accuracy. In our experience, the square-foot method is only useful for a rough order-of-magnitude estimate because it cannot account for how much actual debris is inside the space.

Instead, we use a more accurate volume-based pricing model. To get a realistic estimate for your commercial property, we recommend these three core components:

• Debris Volume: We measure waste in cubic yards (the space it takes up in our truck). You can calculate this by multiplying the length, width, and average height of the debris pile (in feet) and dividing by 27.
• Labor Rates: Typical labor costs in the Vancouver area range between $75 and $100 per hour for a two-person crew. This covers sorting, loading, and safe transport.
• Disposal and Tipping Fees: We factor in regional commercial waste disposal fees in BC, which start at roughly $182 per tonne for general waste at Metro Vancouver transfer stations.

We provide a FREE QUOTE based on a visual on-site assessment to ensure you receive a binding price with no hidden fees. This allows us to identify savings by sorting for recycling and donation, which can reduce your disposal volume by 15–25%.

Please note: Prices and removal rates are estimates; final quotes depend on an on-site assessment and your approval. Work begins only after you approve the provided quote.

• Commercial Estate Cleanout Estimator: Complete Pricing Guide