That’s a question we sometimes are asked by customers who have never before hired a professional window cleaning company. It’s a perfect blend of common‑sense curiosity and a of “what‑if” anxiety.
The quick answer is that you usually don’t have to be there while professional window cleaning technicians clean your home’s windows. This may be especially true if you have already vetted the company you hire by checking Google/Yelp reviews, the BBB and local business agencies (in Arizona, you can check the Arizona Corporation Commission’s Search for Entity Information) to see if that window cleaning business is in good standing.
In fact, many reputable window cleaning companies operate on a trust‑based model. That is, they train their staff, carry insurance, and follow strict safety protocols. This means that it is relatively common for homeowners to leave the house and come back to sparkling windows without a hitch. Of course, there may be scenarios where staying home (or at least being nearby) is the smarter move.
Why Some Homeowners Prefer to Stay While Their Windows are Being Cleaned
Security
If you’re uneasy about strangers working inside your home, or potentially accessing locked rooms, you may decide to remain at home while the window cleaning technicians clean your windows. This may be especially true when your home is filled with valuable art, fragile collectibles.
Pets
If you have a pet that gets nervous around strangers or you have any animals that have a history of escaping, you at decide to stay at home while your windows are being cleaned.
Special Circumstances
If you have delicate blinds, sliding doors, or a custom‑built window that needs a specific cleaning method and you want to ensure that it’s treated accordingly by the window cleaners you’ve hired.
Insurance & Liability
Although not common, some homeowners insurance policies require the homeowner to be present for third‑party services. As such, you may want to doublecheck your homeowner’s policy to determine if this is the case.
What the Professional Window Cleaners Do to Protect You (and Themselves)
Background Checks & Training
Reputable firms vet employees by running background checks, and can require a minimum amount of training.
Liability Insurance & Workers’ Comp
Generally speaking, the window cleaning company’s insurance should cover accidental damage and any injuries that happen on the job. You shouldn’t be personally liable (unless negligence on your part is proven).
How to Prepare Your Home for a Visit from Professional Window Cleaners
Pets
If you have pets, either keep them in a secure room or let the crew work while you’re out. Many cleaners bring a portable pet barrier if you ask in advance.
Insurance
A professional, insured company will have you covered for weather‑related accidents, even when you’re not home. Confirm that the window cleaning company you hire has sufficient insurance coverage for the job.
Valuables
If you have any valuables (art, collectibles, confidential documents, etc.) that you don’t want to risk damaging or go missing, have those securely stored away from the areas of your home that need to be accessed by the window cleaning technicians.
If You Choose to Stay at Home
Stay out of the work zone, particularly outside…keep away from ladders.
If You Choose to Leave the House
- Confirm insurance coverage by asking to see a certificate of insurance.
- Secure your doors and windows by locking all entrances, except one (e.g. a side door) open for the crew (if needed).
- Provide your mobile number to the crew so you can be reached if a problem arises.