How to start a window cleaning business in the UK

Window cleaning is one of the most accessible businesses to start: steady demand, repeat custom, and you can begin small. But there is more to it than a bucket and a smile. Here is what it takes to start a window cleaning business in the UK in 2026, the kit and costs, and how starting with a backer compares to going it alone.

Is window cleaning a good business?

It has a lot going for it. People need it regularly, so the work repeats, which means predictable income once you have a round. Start-up costs are low compared with many trades, and you can build at your own pace. The hard parts are winning those first customers and handling the admin that builds up behind the cleaning.

What you need to get started

• A cleaning method. Most window cleaners now use a water-fed pole and pure water system, which cleans upstairs windows safely from the ground (see water-fed pole vs traditional).
• Transport. A van is the norm once you are going, though some start smaller.
• Insurance. Public liability insurance is essential.
• Water and storage. Pure water systems need filtering kit and somewhere to fill up.
• A way to take bookings and payments. This is where a lot of new starters get caught out.

What it costs to start

Start-up costs vary, but as a rough guide a basic pure water setup can run to a few hundred pounds, with a trolley or van-mounted system and a van pushing the total higher. Insurance, water and fuel are ongoing. You can start lean and reinvest as you grow.

Finding customers, the hard part

Kit is the easy bit. The real challenge is filling your week. Going it alone usually means canvassing door to door, leaflets, local ads and word of mouth, which takes time before the income follows. This is the stage where many people give up, not because they cannot clean, but because the work is not there yet.

Two ways to start: alone, or with a backer

You can start completely from scratch and build everything yourself, or you can start with a company behind you that brings the customers and handles the office. With Tidal, you run your own round while we market your area, bring in the bookings, and handle payments and reminders, so you are not starting cold. Here is how to start a window cleaning business with Tidal. If you want to know the money side, see how much you can earn window cleaning.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a qualification to clean windows?

No formal qualification is required, but public liability insurance and safe working practices are essential.

How much can I earn window cleaning?

It depends on your round and how full your week is. Our guide to window cleaning earnings goes into the numbers.

Is it hard to get customers?

Getting those first customers is the hardest part of going it alone. Starting with a backer like Tidal takes that off your plate, because the office brings the work to your area.

Thinking of starting out? See how to start a window cleaning business with Tidal.