Five Questions to Ask a Window Cleaner Before You Book (and the Replies That Should Give You Pause)

Choosing a window cleaner should not feel like a hostage negotiation. Most people just want someone reliable, friendly and careful who turns up when they say they will and leaves the glass clear. The trouble is that window cleaning is a largely unregulated trade, so a few simple questions can save you a lot of hassle later.

This is not about being suspicious. It is about being a smart customer. A decent cleaner will be happy to answer these, and the answers will tell you a lot about how they work.

1. Are you insured, and can you show me?

Public liability insurance is the big one. If someone drops a pole, knocks a plant pot or damages a window, you want to know there is cover in place. Ask for the certificate or at least a clear confirmation. If they employ anyone, they should also have employer's liability cover.

Answers that should worry you: 'We have never needed it', 'That is just for big firms', or a lot of huffing and puffing. Accidents happen, and a professional should be covered for them. If they cannot tell you who their insurer is, that is a red flag.

2. What method will you use on my windows?

There are two main approaches. Traditional cleaning uses a squeegee, soap and water. Water-fed pole systems use purified water and a brush on a long pole, often without soap. Both can do a good job, but they suit different properties. A good cleaner will ask about the type of glass, the frames, access and anything delicate such as leaded lights or Georgian bars.

Answers that should worry you: 'We just scrub it and let it dry', 'One method fits every house', or no questions at all about your windows. Be wary if someone plans to use a heavy scraper on textured glass or does not seem bothered about paintwork, vents or plants below.

3. How do you treat the water, and do you test it?

This one matters most if they use a water-fed pole. Purified water is what stops spots and streaks. Proper systems use filtration and resin, and a good operator will test the water with a TDS meter. If the reading is too high, the windows will dry with marks.

Answers that should worry you: 'It is just rainwater', 'We do not need to test it', or a blank look when you mention purified water. If they use traditional methods, ask what they use on the glass and whether they rinse properly. Either way, they should be able to explain their process without getting defensive.

4. How do you schedule, and what happens if it rains?

Reliability is half the job. You want to know roughly when they will come, how they will contact you, and what happens if the weather turns. A good local cleaner usually has a regular round and a sensible plan for wet days.

Answers that should worry you: 'Sometime next week' with no follow-up, no phone number or email, or a demand for full payment upfront with no receipt. Ask whether they text before they come, whether they work through light rain, and how they handle cancellations. A clear, simple answer is reassuring.

5. What is the price, and what is included?

Price should be clear before anyone starts. Ask whether the quote covers outside glass only, or frames and sills too. Ask about conservatory roofs, garage windows, doors and any awkward access. A fixed quote based on the property is normal. A vague 'from' price that grows on the day is not.

Answers that should worry you: 'We will sort it out afterwards', cash-only with no receipt, pressure to pay for a year upfront, or surprise charges for basic things that should have been mentioned. You are not being difficult by asking for clarity. You are just avoiding an awkward conversation later.

The pattern matters more than one answer

Any single answer can be explained away. What you are looking for is a pattern: evasive answers about insurance, no explanation of method, no water testing, vague scheduling and unclear pricing. A good cleaner does not need to be polished or corporate. They just need to be straight with you.

At Al's Window Cleaning, we would rather answer these questions before you book than have you wondering afterwards. If we are not the right fit for your property, we will say so. If we are, you will know exactly what we are doing and what it costs.

A quick script for the doorstep

You do not need to interrogate anyone. Try: 'You came recommended, but I always ask a few things. Are you insured, and how do you clean the windows?' That is usually enough to start a sensible conversation. A professional will appreciate it. A cowboy will talk his way around it.

A little homework now means clearer glass, fewer surprises and a much better chance of finding someone you are happy to recommend to the neighbours.