You should support your local licensed window cleaner because, as opposed to unlicensed window cleaners, they do not break the law. Below is a list of commonly asked questions relating to window cleaners, which will help you understand our industry better. If you would like to put other questions to the network team please use the contact page.

Why is there a need to license window cleaners?

Window cleaners have access to people's properties more than any other trade, and as a result of this, window cleaners are included in the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982. Councils which operate the licence scheme (a few still don’t, but we’re pleased with our progress on that front) are required to license anyone involved, whether they are employers, self-employed or employees, in order to combat bogus workmen who could trade as window cleaners.
You can do a search in Google for bogus window cleaner and you will find numerous Police alerts.

Who can obtain a licence?

Anyone of good standing in the community. To obtain a licence a window cleaner needs to provide proof of his Public Liability insurance and submit this with his application form to the council. If the applicant is an employee, he needs to also enclose a copy of his company’s Employers Liability insurance. Applications are received by the local council and forwarded to the Police as a matter of course, and if he has any past convictions – even including points on his licence - these all need to be declared. The local Police run a check on the individual and then inform the Council. If they feel that the person is a risk to the public then they will request the Council not to grant a licence. However, an applicant does have the right of appeal and would plead his case in front of the Council panel - in some cases the Councils over-rule the Police's guidance and a licence is granted. In extreme cases, if there is a history of violence or theft, or worse, a licence would never be granted.

My window cleaner does not have a licence should I be worried?

We can’t give you a definitive answer, as we don’t know the individual’s circumstances. If he’s a sole trader and only recently started up, he might not even know that he should be licensed. On the other hand you must know that you’re taking a risk with an unlicensed window cleaner, as he will, more than likely, not be insured. You may also want to consider why they do not want to get a licence and what they could be hiding. If you are uncertain, our best advice is to contact the local council licensing office, they’ll be happy to put your mind at rest.

What should I do if my window cleaner doesn’t make a point of letting me know that he’s licensed?

Just ask him outright if he HAS applied to the Council, and tell him you want to see his licence!

Why would someone not operate with a licence?

1) As previously mentioned, he does not know that he should be licensed.
2) He has been refused one in the past, or knows that he will be refused one
3) He is working on the side - for example, claiming benefits.
4) He has a few customers at cheap rates for “beer money” and not declaring the income from it.
5) A condition of gaining a licence is that you have to be properly insured – some fly-by-nights consider this to be a waste of money.

Do National cleaning contractors need to license their window cleaners?

YES, As we pointed out earlier, ALL window cleaners must be licensed in each area they work, if that area’s council licenses window-cleaners. We are aware that certain national companies do not license their work force. Whether they are doing that intentionally or in ignorance, it is up to the local Council to resolve this situation. We were amazed to find out that one of these companies actually cleans the Scottish Parliament building!
These major companies are working illegally. Some have taken work away from licensed window cleaners who have taken steps to ensure that their working practices and procedures comply with the law.

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