Getting started in window washing

Steps to go from zero to your first paying window-washing client.

1. 1

   Buy a lean starter kit

   A basic squeegee/pole/bucket/scraper setup runs $300-800 — you don't need a water-fed pole system until you're regularly booking multi-story or larger jobs.

2. 2

   Get general liability insurance

   Budget roughly $500-1,500/yr (commonly around $900/yr) — this covers accidental damage like a cracked pane, and reassures clients before you're working around their windows and property.

3. 3

   Set a per-window and minimum-job price

   Price per window ($8-16 for standard residential, more above the second floor) and set a minimum job fee ($100-250) so small jobs stay worth the drive.

4. 4

   Create a simple service agreement

   Cover scope, access, height/safety limits, and weather-rescheduling policy before your first job.

5. 5

   Check local licensing requirements

   Some cities/counties require a general business license for a home-based service business — requirements and fees vary by location.

6. 6

   List yourself locally and ask for reviews

   A Google Business Profile, Nextdoor, and local Facebook community groups drive most early bookings; asking satisfied clients for a review (and offering a recurring seasonal contract) builds a repeat-client base fast.