Window Cleaner

Also known as:

Cleaner, Window

Introduction

Window cleaners wash and polish windows, and collect money for the service provided. The work usually involves working on a ladder. Window cleaners may work on houses or larger buildings such as offices or factories. They are often self-employed.

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Work Activities

Window cleaners wash and polish the windows of houses, shops and large buildings such as offices and factories. The work involves washing and polishing windows using wash leathers, sponges, squeegees and brushes. Hot soapy water may be obtained from the customer if someone is at home, or the window cleaner may have to carry their own supply. Window cleaners usually need to work on a ladder, or from a cradle or platform when washing the windows of a high-rise building.

Occasionally, window cleaners carry out additional tasks such as cleaning out guttering on houses or cleaning window frames. They also collect money from customers, and ensure that worksheets are signed to say that work has been done satisfactorily.

Window cleaners have to carry their equipment with them using a car, van or bike and make sure that it is clean.

Work patterns may depend on the weather.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

To be a window cleaner you must enjoy working outside in all weathers. You should be able to work at a height, have a good sense of balance and be safety conscious. You must be fit enough to carry a heavy ladder and pail of water and if necessary lift them over fences and walls. If you are working on your own you should enjoy your own company. If you are working in a gang you should be able to work as part of a team.

You must be trustworthy and respect customers' property. A driving licence is useful. It is important to be fit and healthy. Problems with balance, blackouts, use of hands or being on your feet for long periods could make entry into this work difficult.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Pay rates for window cleaners are in the range of £200 - £230 a week, rising to £270 - £310. Higher earners can make around £370 a week.

Window cleaners work Monday to Friday, and may also work at weekends.

Jobs throughout the country are with local small firms dealing with houses and shops, and with larger contract cleaning companies dealing with high-rise buildings.

Many window cleaners are self-employed.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some entrants have relevant skills and abilities gained within the building/construction industries, for example, as a labourer; entrants might have gained other practical skills in work using their hands.

You can apply for financial support and advice on setting up your own window cleaning business. Contact Local Enterprise Company (LEC) for more information.

• 84% of people in occupations such as window cleaning are self-employed.
• 18% work part-time.
• 12% have flexible hours.

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