Window Cleaners and Insurance

Window Cleaners are insured to clean my home, aren’t they?

A question we hear about a lot is window cleaners and insurance.

Insurance

Many window cleaners don’t have insurance. And even if they do, it’s usually only for accidents involving other people, not the property they’re cleaning. It’s important to hire a window cleaning company that has insurance specifically for working on your property. Make sure they also have insurance covering their employees.

Insurance Certificate

Before you give the green light to a window cleaner for your windows, make sure to ask for a copy of their insurance. The window cleaner should also keep a copy in their van. If needed, you can ask the office to email you a copy.

Why is it important

If a window cleaner accidentally damages your property, like breaking a window or dropping equipment on your car, will their insurance cover the damage, or will you have to pay for it yourself?

Accidents

Accidents can happen and do. There was an interesting article in the Times where Jeremy Vine from the BBC spoke about a window cleaner falling off of a ladder at his home.

Ladders v Water Fed Pole

Regardless of insurance, nobody wants a window cleaner to risk their life falling from a ladder. There are numerous news articles about such accidents, and it’s not only tragic but also involves police and health and safety authorities. Whenever possible, it’s best to avoid working at heights. The water-fed pole, a method used for over 40 years, is the safest way to clean windows.

Conclusion

Choosing the right window cleaner is crucial. While some operate without proper documentation like insurance and evade taxes, others run legitimate businesses. The ideal choice is a window cleaner with comprehensive insurance coverage for themselves, their employees, and your property. Those who pay taxes and contribute positively to the community are generally more reliable and responsible. Consider these factors when deciding which window cleaner is right for you.