Book regular window cleaning.

Most modern UK window cleaners have transitioned from traditional ladders and squeegees to "reach and wash" water-fed pole systems. This guide explains what to expect from a professional service, the current market rates for 2025/26, and how to ensure you get a streak-free finish every time.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Initial Assessment: The cleaner inspects the property for access issues, fragile glazing, or pre-existing damage like "blown" double glazing units.
• Frame and Sill Prep: High-quality services include brushing down frames, sills, and vents to remove loose debris before wetting the glass.
• Pure Water Cleaning: Using a telescopic pole, the cleaner applies de-ionised water which absorbs dirt and dries naturally without leaving spots or streaks.
• Traditional Squeegee (Optional): For interior glass or specific ground-floor windows, a manual applicator and squeegee may be used for a polished finish.
• Door and Surround Wipe: Standard contracts usually include wiping down front and back doors, including the frames and threshold.
• Maintenance Check: Professional cleaners often alert homeowners to failing mastic, cracked panes, or blocked guttering noticed during the process.

Typical Costs

Prices are influenced primarily by the number of windows, the frequency of the visit, and ease of access. Expect to pay a premium for properties with three or more storeys or homes requiring specific safety equipment.

How Long Does It Take?

• Small Terrace/Flat: 15–25 minutes for a routine exterior clean.
• Average 3-Bed Semi: 30–45 minutes using a water-fed pole system.
• Large Detached Home: 60–90 minutes depending on conservatory and outbuildings.
• First Clean/Deep Clean: Add 50% to the standard time to account for scrubbing neglected frames.

DIY or Professional?

While cleaning ground-floor windows is a straightforward DIY task, professional cleaners offer significant advantages in safety and results. Reaching second-storey windows or conservatory roofs requires specialist ladders or expensive water-purification systems to avoid "spotting" caused by hard tap water.

Professional window cleaners are familiar with the Working at Height Regulations 2005, ensuring the job is done safely without risking a fall or damaging your property with heavy ladders.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Insurance: Ensure they hold Public Liability Insurance (minimum £1m) that specifically covers "damage to items being worked upon."
• Payment Methods: Reputable modern cleaners often use automated systems like GoCardless or bank transfers rather than knocking for cash in the evening.
• Reliability: Look for cleaners who send a text notification the night before they arrive so you can unlock gates.
• Questions to Ask: Do you clean the frames and sills as standard? What is your policy if it rains? Are you insured to work on my specific roof type?

UK Regulations

• Working at Height Regulations 2005: This encourages the use of water-fed poles over ladders wherever "reasonably practicable" to minimise fall risks.
• GDPR: If your cleaner stores your phone number or address for scheduling, they must comply with UK data protection laws.
• Public Liability: While not a legal requirement for sole traders, it is an industry standard to protect the homeowner’s property.

Common Problems

• Spotting on Glass: Usually caused by the cleaner using "dirty" water (high TDS levels) or failing to rinse the frames properly, allowing dirt to bleed onto the glass.
• Access Issues: Locked side gates are the most common reason for missed windows; always ensure the cleaner has full access on their scheduled day.
• Damaged Seals: High-pressure washing can sometimes worsen existing "blown" double glazing units where the vacuum seal has already failed.
• Inconsistent Schedules: Some "round" cleaners may skip visits during winter months; establish a firm 4, 6, or 8-week frequency upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions