Window Cleaner

Typical Salary

£16,000 To £23,000

Typical Hours

38 to 40 variable

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

College / University

Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship are not listed for this job.

Routes into this Career

Routes into this Career are not listed for this job.

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.

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.

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

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 & 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.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & 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.

Restrictions & 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.