How to Start a Window Cleaning Business: UK Startup Guide

Wondering how to start a window cleaning business in the UK, but not sure where to begin? Window cleaning is one of the most accessible service businesses to launch, with low startup costs and strong demand from both homeowners and commercial clients.

If you’re practical, detail-oriented, and ready to get stuck in, window cleaning could be your route to building a steady and profitable business.

Market opportunities

The window cleaning business in the UK is booming! It's expected to pull in nearly £385 million by 2028-29, with some reports suggesting a steady growth rate. This steady demand is driven by the UK’s climate, which includes rain, dust, and coastal air, all of which quickly leave windows dirty and in need of regular cleaning.

Many people turn to professional window cleaners, not just for convenience, but because tackling upper-storey or hard-to-reach windows safely requires the right equipment, time, and expertise.

Key customer segments include:

• Homeowners: A large portion of the market, particularly in suburban areas. Many households hire a regular window cleaner on a monthly or 6–8 week cycle. Elderly residents, busy professionals, and those in multi-storey homes are especially likely to outsource this task.
• Commercial clients: Shops, cafés, offices, schools, care homes, and apartment block managers often need routine cleaning to maintain a professional image and meet hygiene standards. Jobs can be larger (and more lucrative), especially if you can service high windows or large sites.
• Construction & property developers: New builds and renovation projects typically require a thorough clean once construction is complete.

According to Checkatrade's report, typical annual earnings for window cleaning businesses are:

Legal requirements & company setup

Starting a window cleaning business in the UK is fairly straightforward. There are no national licences or qualifications required (except in Scotland), but you do need to register your business, follow health & safety rules, and make sure you’re properly insured.

Main business structure options are:

• Sole Trader – The easiest way to start. You register as self-employed with HMRC, complete a yearly Self Assessment tax return, and trade under your own name or a chosen business name. Paperwork is minimal, but you’re personally liable for any debts or claims.
• Limited Company (Ltd) – Set up through Companies House, this creates a separate legal entity. You get limited liability protection (so your personal assets are safe if the business runs into trouble) and often appear more professional to clients. It can also bring tax advantages, though it comes with extra admin and reporting duties.
• Partnership – Works much like the sole trader route, but with two or more people sharing profits and responsibilities. A written partnership agreement is strongly advised to avoid disputes down the line.

💡 Pro tip

ANNA makes setting up your company simple. With ANNA’s free company registration service, you can register a Limited Company for free and open a business account at the same time.

The process only takes a few minutes online, and you’ll receive your Certificate of Incorporation quickly.

ANNA can also help you stay on top of the essentials, like filing Confirmation Statements and submitting accounts.

⚡ Safety & compliance

Window cleaning often involves working at height, so the Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply. You must:

• Use safe, well-maintained ladders or water-fed pole systems.
• Avoid using ladders above 4 metres where possible.
• Carry out basic risk assessments considering weather, ground stability, and equipment checks before starting work.
• Use safer alternatives like water-fed poles or cleaning from inside whenever feasible.
• If using specialist equipment such as cherry pickers, operators must have appropriate training and certification (e.g., IPAF).
• Ensure all workers have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience for working at height.
• Equipment and fall prevention systems must be properly maintained and inspected regularly.

⚡ Insurance essentials

Insurance provides protection for your work and reassurance for your clients.

• Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – Not legally required, but strongly recommended and often requested by commercial clients. It protects you if your work causes injury or property damage, and covers legal fees and compensation claims. Policies usually start at around £5–£10 per month.
• Employers’ Liability Insurance (EL) – Legally required if you hire staff, even part-time or temporary helpers. You must have at least £5 million in cover. It protects against illness or injury claims made by employees. Hiring without this insurance is illegal.
• Tool & Equipment Insurance – Covers your tools and equipment against theft or damage. This isn’t included in public liability cover, so it’s important for protecting your gear.
• Commercial Vehicle Insurance – Needed if you use your car or van for work. Standard personal insurance won’t cover business use, so you’ll need to upgrade your policy.
• Goods in Transit Insurance (optional) – Protects your tools and equipment while they’re being transported in your vehicle.

⚡ Licences & permits

Before starting your window cleaning business, it’s important to know the licensing and permit rules in your area.

• England & Wales – No licence required.
• Scotland – You must apply for a window cleaner’s licence from your local council (lasts up to 3 years, includes checks and insurance requirements). Working without one can mean fines of up to £2,500.
• Northern Ireland – No specific licence, but always check local bylaws.

Window cleaning business: startup costs & funding options

Starting a window cleaning business is relatively affordable. A basic starter kit can be set up for under £1,000, while a full professional setup with a van and water-fed pole system typically costs £3,000–£5,000 or more.

Typical startup items include:

⚡ Essential equipment

Your starter toolkit for safe, effective window cleaning:

• Window cleaning kit (squeegee, scrubber, bucket, cloths, solution): £60 – £80
• Ladder for traditional cleaning: £130 – £500
• Water-fed pole system: £180+ for the pole, plus £80–£100 for a DI filter
• RO system (optional, higher capacity): £300 – £400
• Work clothes / branded gear: £50 – £100

⚡ Transport

Moving between jobs is easier with the right vehicle:

• Start with your own car (with business insurance)
• Second-hand small van: £2,000 – £5,000
• Van running costs: fuel, insurance (~£500+/year), tax & maintenance

⚡ Business setup & branding

Get your business official and visible:

• Sole trader setup: free
• Limited company registration: £12 – £50
• Website & domain: £50 – £100/year
• Flyers & business cards: from £50
• Accounting advice (optional): ~£150

⚡ Insurance

Protect yourself and your clients:

• Public liability insurance: £60 – £120/year
• Commercial van insurance: £500+/year
• Employers’ liability (if hiring): £100 – £200/year

⚡ Ongoing costs

Day-to-day expenses once you’re up and running:

• Fuel & vehicle upkeep
• Cleaning solutions & cloths: £10 – £20/month
• DI resin refills: ~£70 a few times a year
• Marketing & advertising: variable
• Software subscriptions (scheduling, bookkeeping): £10 – £30/month

⚡ How much can a window cleaner earn in the UK?

Earnings depend on job size, location, and efficiency:

• Small house: £15 – £20
• Large house with conservatory: £40 – £50
• Rule of thumb: £1–£2 per window
• Average hourly rate: £25 – £30 (higher for commercial/difficult jobs: £50–£60)
• Typical solo window cleaner: ~£36k revenue / £22.5k profit per year

Client acquisition strategy

Securing your first clients is often the most challenging stage of starting a window cleaning business. By combining local marketing, online visibility, and excellent service, you can build a steady customer base.

Here is what you should do:

⚡ Local marketing

Window cleaning is a hyper-local service, so focus on visibility in your immediate area:

🟢 Google Business Profile – This free tool is one of the most effective ways to get found locally. When people search for services like “window cleaner near me,” your business can appear right in front of them. You can:

• Showcase your services
• List the areas you cover
• Add your opening hours
• Upload photos of your work

Additionally, asking happy customers to leave 5-star reviews is a powerful way to build trust and attract even more enquiries.

🟢 Flyers & door-to-door marketing – A simple, well-designed flyer with your contact details and a special introductory offer (such as 20% off the first clean or free interior windows with an exterior clean) can be a great way to generate leads. Distribute them in areas where windows appear neglected or lack regular cleaning services. While you’re working, taking the time to introduce yourself to neighbours can often result in extra bookings on the spot.

⚡ Social media & word of mouth

Your personal network and local online communities can be some of the strongest ways to grow your business.

• Be visible online – Set up a Facebook or Instagram page to share before-and-after photos, customer testimonials, and special offers. Use local hashtags so nearby customers can easily find you.
• Join community spaces – Platforms like Facebook groups and Nextdoor are where neighbours often ask for recommendations. Be active and helpful so your name comes up naturally.
• Encourage referrals – Happy customers are your best promoters. Offer simple rewards like: “Refer a friend and you’ll both get £5 off your next clean.” This builds trust and can even win you multiple clients on the same street.

⚡ Online platforms & directories

Many customers turn to online marketplaces to find reliable service providers.

• Checkatrade, TrustATrader, Rated People, and TaskRabbit help you build credibility and collect reviews, although some may charge membership or lead fees.
• Yell.com, Gumtree, and Google Local Services Ads give you extra visibility with very little effort.
• Partnering with complementary businesses such as cleaners, gardeners, or estate agents can bring you regular referrals.

⚡ Building trust & credibility

Clients value professionalism and reliability when letting someone onto their property. You can make a strong impression by focusing on the little details that build trust:

• Professional branding – A simple logo, clean uniform, or sign-written van instantly shows you take your work seriously.
• Social proof – Share reviews and testimonials on your website or social channels to highlight happy clients.
• Show your results – Before-and-after photos give clients visible proof of your quality (always with their permission).
• Be reliable – If there’s ever a delay, communicate clearly. Consistency and honesty go a long way.
• Add a personal touch – Friendly service, remembering client preferences, or small extras (like cleaning an extra porch window) leave a lasting impression.

Necessary skills and window cleaning equipment

Window cleaning isn’t just wiping panes until they sparkle. It’s climbing ladders safely, keeping schedules tight, handling equipment like a pro, and leaving every client confident they hired the right crew.

⚡ Necessary skills

Here are the most important skills you need to start a window cleaning business:

• Efficient window cleaning techniques (streak-free, smudge-free results).
• Comfortable working at heights and using ladders safely.
• Physical fitness and stamina for tasks such as carrying ladders, water, and performing extended arm work.
• Clear communication and customer service skills. Be prepared to deal with customer complaints in a polite way.
• Time management and organisation for scheduling and routing jobs.
• Basic admin skills (logging payments, invoicing, tracking expenses).

💡 Pro tip

When you’re constantly on the move from one job to another, keeping on top of invoices can be a real headache. Chasing payments, logging cash, and making sure nothing slips through takes time you just don’t have.

ANNA lets you send professional invoices in just a few taps from your phone. Customers can pay by secure link or QR code, and if they forget, ANNA follows up automatically. You can also log cash payments or connect ANNA to your POS system so nothing slips through the cracks.

⚡ Daily tasks

A typical day might include:

• Loading squeegees, cloths, buckets, and a purified water system (if used).
• Checking ladders and safety gear.
• Travelling between clients with efficient route planning.
• Cleaning windows (traditional squeegee or water-fed pole system).
• Communicating with clients about specific requests or limitations (e.g. stains, hard-water marks).
• Logging payments, issuing receipts, and updating schedules.

⚡ Time commitment & balance

Here’s what to expect when it comes to balancing time and workload:

• Expect 6–8 hours of active cleaning per workday, plus additional time for travel and admin tasks.
• Most cleaners stick to weekdays, with weekends reserved for paperwork or the occasional client request.
• The weather can affect schedules. In case of storms, icy roads, or shorter winter days, you may reschedule jobs.
• The work offers flexibility, but maintaining a consistent routine (like monthly rounds) is key to keeping clients happy.

Common mistakes to avoid when starting a window cleaning business in UK

To help you start your window cleaning business on the right foot, here are common mistakes to avoid and the better practices that lead to long-term success.

Tools, systems & automations

To keep things simple and avoid costly mistakes, the right systems make all the difference. These tools will save you time, keep your business organised, and make you look professional.

• Scheduling & booking tools – Apps like Jobber, Tradify, or Cleaner Planner help you schedule jobs, send reminders, and optimise routes. ANNA Money goes a step further with built-in reminders for Companies House deadlines, VAT returns, and other filings.
• CRM – Keep customer details and notes in a spreadsheet or free CRM like HubSpot so nothing falls through the cracks.
• Accounting software – Tools like ANNA, Xero, or QuickBooks automate expenses, invoicing, and tax tracking.
• Payment collection – ANNA’s Payment Link makes it easy to get paid on the spot. Send a secure URL via WhatsApp, or show a QR code on your phone so customers can pay instantly.
• Communication tools – A business phone number, voicemail, or WhatsApp reminders help you stay professional and responsive.
• Business bank account – Always use a dedicated business account (not your personal one) to keep your finances organised. ANNA’s business account is built for small business owners and sole traders, with handy automated bookkeeping tools like receipt capture, expense categorisation, and tax pots to set money aside for VAT and tax.

Window cleaning business – 1-year plan (example)

Here is an example of how your 1-year plan could look:

Ready to begin? Register your business today

From your first customer call to climbing the ladder of success, running a window cleaning business is much smoother when the banking, invoicing, and paperwork are already taken care of. With ANNA, everything you need to get started is in one place so you can turn your idea into income fast:

• Free business registration – Set up your new window cleaning business at no cost.
• Smart support as you grow – Stay on top of VAT, tax, and essential filings with ANNA’s built-in tools.
• Quick and easy setup – Complete the process online in minutes, with the option of a virtual office address to keep your home details private.
• Trusted by thousands – More than 100,000 UK entrepreneurs use ANNA to manage finances, stay compliant, and focus on their trade.

Register with ANNA today! Keep the windows clear and your customers happy, while ANNA keeps your business running smoothly behind the scenes.