What to Ask Before You Hire a Window Cleaner

Not all window cleaning quotes are created equal. If you've ever gotten two or three prices and found yourself wondering why they're so different, you're not imagining things. The scope of what's included — and what's quietly left out — varies enormously from one company to the next. Some quotes will be highly detailed while some single lines. Before you book anyone, here's what I'd advise you to ask.

Are they insured?

This one isn't negotiable. Anyone working on your home should carry liability insurance, and if they're working at a ladder at all, they should have it in writing. You are well within your rights to ask for a copy of their insurance certificate and safety training card before they show up. (Beforehand because sometimes we forget and it's on the counter at home) A reputable window cleaner will hand it over without hesitation. Of couse I want you to feel assured that I know what I'm doing and if something goes wrong - I can afford to fix the problem. If someone balks at this, that's a big red flag.

Do they clean inside and out?

You'd be surprised how many quotes only cover exterior windows. It's not a good or a bad thing but you should know that some cleaners don't do interiors at all — others will, but only if you ask. I always include both options when I quote - often a new client doesn't think to ask if I do interior windows, so they don't know. If you want both done in one visit (and most people do), confirm that upfront. For a large property I might take 2 days to do a full inside and out job, or bring help. If you don't like people working around your home much and want it over with quickly - be sure and tell them that upfront.

What exactly does "window cleaning" include?

This is where quotes stop being apples to apples. Ask specifically:

• Screens — Are they removed, cleaned, and reinstalled? Or just wiped down in place?

• Tracks — The channel your window slides in collects an impressive amount of grime. Is that included?

• Sills and frames — Same question. A clean pane of glass framed by a dirty sill isn't really clean.

Some cleaners include all of this (I do). Some include none of it. Get it in writing so you know what you're paying for.

Can they handle every window in your home?

A standard window cleaning setup works fine for a single-storey bungalow. But if you have second or third floor windows, skylights, or windows over a conservatory or addition, a walk out basement, that changes things. Ask whether they have the equipment to reach every window safely — and how they plan to do it. A straight answer here tells you a lot. I enjoy explaining things but even if he/she does not - your questions are valid. Your home's windows, gutters, shingles are all quite expensive so you're right to have questions.

Are they safe to work at height?

Height work done carelessly is a liability — for them and for you. Ask about their method: ladder, water-fed pole, or something else. Ask whether their approach requires them to work on your roof, and if so, how they protect it and themselves. You're not being difficult by asking this. You're being a responsible homeowner who knows home repair is stressful and expensive.

Is this someone you're comfortable having in your home?

For exterior-only work, this matters less. But if a window cleaner is coming inside — walking through your rooms, handling your furniture to access windows, working around your things — you're entitled to feel good about who that is.

Trust your instincts. Do they communicate clearly? At least get on the phone with them, an in person quote may or may not be necessary - fuel is expensive right now! Do they show up when they say they will? Did they take the time to give you a proper quote, or did they throw a number out without seeing the job? Someone who handles the small things well tends to handle the big things well.

They should ask questions.

What's their track record?

Experience matters in this trade. Ask how long they've been doing it, whether they have reviews you can read, and whether they have photos of their work. Someone who takes pride in what they do will have no shortage of before and afters. That's not vanity — it's accountability. I've got over 50 reviews on Google, you can read them. Someone new may have less, which is where a call or meeting can give you clues.

One more thing: the price question

When you're comparing quotes, cheaper isn't always better and expensive isn't always justified. What you're looking for is value — a clear scope of work, a fair price for what's included, and a person you feel confident inviting onto your property.

If a quote is significantly lower than others, ask yourself what's missing. If it's significantly higher, ask what's extra. A good window cleaner should be able to walk you through their pricing without getting defensive about it.

I can tell you I have been to homes and been told my quote is half the price of other cleaners and I've also been told I'm double the price of other cleaners.

I can't speak for others but I can tell you my pricing is standard and I apply it to every home the same way. Rarely are two homes the same but if they are, you can bet they will get the same quote. I don't do "postal code" pricing where I charge more if you drive a nice car, that's silly and completely lacks integrity. I put my family name on the truck - integrity is everything.

Hiring the right person the first time saves you the hassle of fixing someone else's mistakes. Ask the right questions, compare what's actually included, and go with someone whose answers make you feel good about the decision.

If you have questions about what a proper window cleaning should include — or you'd like a quote for your home — I'm easy to reach by phone or text.