What is a window cleaners’ licence?
A window cleaner’s licence is required if you intend to work and trade as an independent window cleaner or as an employee, or if you run and operate a window cleaning company and manage and employ window cleaners as registered staff.
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Why do you need a window cleaner’s licence?
A window cleaner’s licence is required as part of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982.
It is also imperative that window cleaners are honest and trustworthy as they often have unrestricted access to homes, and other properties, and have the opportunity to observe the internal layout and sighting of any valuables. This is why window cleaner’s undergo police checks as part of their window cleaner’s licence application.
How to apply for a window cleaner’s licence
Window cleaner’s licence applications must be made via your local council. You can find the contact details for your local council at the Official UK Government Website.
Depending on your local council, you may have an option to either apply for a 1-year window cleaner’s licence, or a 3-year window cleaner’s licence. You will need to renew your licence.
As part of your application for a window cleaner’s licence you may also need to provide the following:
✅ proof of your public liability insurance.
✅ a copy of the employer’s liability insurance that covers you, if you are an employee.
✅ at least 2 passport photographs.
Eligibility
To apply for a cleaner’s licence, you must adhere to the following eligibility requirements.
- You must not be disqualified from holding a licence, and you must be fit to be the holder of the licence.
- The vehicle you use in order to carry out the work must be suitable for that purpose.
- Most local authorities will request that you must not have had an application refused for the same licence and same vehicle within the last year, unless there has been a material change in your circumstances since your last application.
- You potentially may also be checked by the police for any criminal convictions as part of the application process.
Displaying your window cleaner’s licence
Your local council may issue an identification badge for when you are operating and working as a window cleaner. You must wear it visibly while working. Otherwise you must carry your window cleaner’s licence with you while working.
Penalties
If you work without a window cleaner’s licence or make a false statement on your application you may be fined up to £2,500.
