How to Find a Window Washer You Can Trust
Working at height with water and chemicals carries real risk — for your property, your landscaping, and the crew on the ladder. Choosing the right professional from the start protects everyone and gives you peace of mind.
What to Look for in a Window Washer
Insurance — Any contractor working on your home should carry general liability and workers' comp. Ask for a current certificate of insurance before any work begins. Uninsured crews leave you exposed if they're injured on your property.
Experience with your building type — Window washers often specialize. Some focus on single-family homes; others handle high-rise commercial, historic buildings, or hard-water restoration. Ask whether they've done jobs comparable to yours.
Equipment — Pros should arrive with squeegees, water-fed poles, ladders rated for the height, and drop cloths for interior work. Crews relying on Windex and paper towels are not professionals.
Reviews — Look for Google reviews that mention specific outcomes — streak-free finishes, on-time arrivals, careful handling of furniture, and clean cleanup. Generic praise matters less than detailed accounts.
Written estimates — A good contractor walks the property, counts panes, and gives a written quote that itemizes interior, exterior, screens, tracks, and any restoration work.
Questions to Ask Before Booking
- Are you licensed and insured? Can I see a current certificate of insurance?
- How long have you been in business? Do you have references for homes like mine?
- Do you use ladders, water-fed poles, or lifts for upper-story work?
- What's your process for hard-water stains or paint overspray?
- Are screens and tracks included, or extra?
- What's your guarantee if I find streaks or missed spots?
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unwillingness to provide proof of insurance
- Door-to-door sales with high-pressure "today only" pricing
- Cash-only with no written estimate or invoice
- No reviews, or reviews mentioning damage, no-shows, or sloppy work
- Pricing that's dramatically lower than every other window washer in your area
After the Job
Walk the property with the lead while the crew is still on-site. Look for:
- Streak-free glass in good light
- Sills, tracks, and frames wiped down
- Landscaping undamaged
- All ladders, hoses, and debris removed
A professional window washer will invite the walkthrough and fix anything you flag on the spot. That responsiveness is the single best signal you've found a contractor worth booking again.