Window cleaner

You could start by doing an intermediate apprenticeship in cleaning and support services.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

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.

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.

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.

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
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• excellent verbal communication skills
• customer service skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

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.

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

• mixing cleaning chemicals and detergents
• using ladder
• using water-fed poles
• cleaning windows on high buildings using cradles or ropes
• keeping a record of payment or completing customer reports
• safely storing and transporting equipment

Your working environment may be at height and outdoors in all weathers.