You could apply directly to become a window cleaner with a company, buy an existing round or set up your own business. You don't need any formal qualifications to do this.
Window cleaner
Alternative titles for this job include
Window cleaners work on domestic and commercial premises, cleaning windows, doors and other glass surfaces.
Average salary (a year)
£16,000 Starter
to£23,000 Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
38 to 40 variable
You could work
as a contractor / self-employed managing your own hours
How to become a window cleaner
You can get into this job through:
- applying directly
- specialist training with a professional body
Direct Application
Other Routes
You could work as a window cleaner on tall buildings like office blocks, if you've completed training in rope access work or operating a mobile platform.
More Information
Career tips
Employers will be interested in your practical skills, ability to work at height, and your awareness of health and safety regulations and good practice.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Federation of Window Cleaners for professional development training and to make industry contacts.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- sensitivity and understanding
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- excellent verbal communication skills
- customer service skills
- knowledge of public safety and security
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to:
- be able to cope with working at height
- have a good level of fitness
You may need a driving licence and your own vehicle, especially if you're self-employed.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
You could:
- mix cleaning chemicals and detergents
- use ladders
- use water-fed poles
- clean windows on high buildings and use cradles or ropes
- keep a record of payment or complete customer reports
- safely store and transport equipment
- look for and bid for new business
Working environment
Your working environment may be at height and outdoors in all weathers.
Career path and progression
You could work for contract cleaners or specialist window cleaning firms. With experience, you may be able to progress to become a supervisor or manager.
You may start your own business, working alone or employing staff.
Current opportunities
Apprenticeships In England
We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for a window cleaner right now.
The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.
Courses In England
Employability - Level 2 Certificate in Cleaning Principles
- Provider: PETERBOROUGH CITY COUNCIL
- Start date: 19 April 2021
- Location: PETERBOROUGH
Generic and Specialist Cleaning Principles - Level 2 Certificate
- Provider: EALING, HAMMERSMITH & WEST LONDON COLLEGE
- Start date: 02 August 2021
- Location: Offsite
Jobs In the United Kingdom
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