Is building cleaning different from household cleaning?

Yes, commercial building cleaning is regulated. Simple household cleaning can be a free trade without qualification.

Do I need ISO certification for cleaning contracts?

Not legally required, but ISO 9001 gives a major advantage in public tenders and large commercial contracts.

English

Building Cleaning (Gebaeudereinigung)

GewO §94 Z.21 Verified: April 2026

Key Facts

Type: Regulated trade
Qualification: Qualification exam
Registration cost: Free (€0)
Exam fees: Covered by government since July 2023
Start immediately: Yes, upon registration
Market: Growing — office buildings, hotels, industry

What This Trade Covers

Office and commercial building cleaning
Staircase and common area maintenance
Window cleaning (exterior and interior)
Industrial cleaning
Post-construction cleaning
Facade cleaning

Gebaeudereinigung vs. Free Cleaning Building cleaning (professional commercial cleaning) is a regulated trade. Simple household cleaning services can be operated as a free trade. The distinction depends on the scope and commercial nature of the work.

Market Advantage: Certifications

For public tenders and large contracts, certifications matter:

ISO 9001 — Quality management
ISO 14001 — Environmental management
OENORM D 2050 — Austrian cleaning standards

Vollstaendige deutsche Version →

Legally binding: German text of GewO 1994.

Building Cleaning (Gebaeudereinigung)

Key Facts

What This Trade Covers

Market Advantage: Certifications

Related Guides