Short answer
To get every window cleaned, I need to reach it: side gates unlocked or a key arranged, dogs indoors, cars and bins clear of the windows, and a path wide enough for the hose. Tell me about access on the quote form. If something stops me reaching a window, I’ll tell you which one and why.
Why does access matter so much?
For outside cleans, I work from the ground with a water-fed pole, and a hose runs from the van to the pole. That means I need to walk to each side of the house, with the hose following. A locked gate, a loose dog or a car parked against the wall can stop that. Most missed windows come down to access, not cleaning.
Side gates
- Leave them unlocked on the day, or tell me where the key is.
- Bolts on the inside are common. If there’s no way to open them from outside, tell me and we’ll arrange it.
- Close gates behind me. I always do, especially if you have pets.
Dogs and cats
Dogs are the biggest access question. Even friendly dogs can get tangled in the hose or chase the pole. Please keep dogs indoors while I’m working. If that isn’t possible, tell me, and we’ll pick a time when someone can bring them in. Cats are usually less of a problem, but tell me if you’d like me to watch for them at the gate.
Cars, bins and bikes
A car parked tight to a wall or a row of bins under a window can block the pole. If you can, move them before I arrive. If not, I’ll clean what I can reach and let you know what I couldn’t.
Narrow paths and steps
Some homes have a narrow side passage, steps, or a path shared with a neighbour. Tell me about them, so I can plan where the hose goes. I only use shared paths if you tell me I’m allowed.
Gardens and plants
I’ll keep the hose off flower beds where I can and step carefully. If something near a window is fragile, like seedlings, a pond or hanging baskets, mention it. Pure water has no soap in it and dries clear, so plants and paving aren’t harmed by the rinse.
Flats and shared buildings
For flats, access often depends on the building: entry systems, communal gardens and managing agents. Window cleaning for flats in Wickford covers it.
What happens if I can’t get in?
I’ll clean everything I can reach, and tell you which windows I couldn’t and why. Next time, we’ll sort it out. I won’t climb fences, go through neighbours' gardens without permission, or skip a window without saying.
What about locked back gardens with no side gate?
Terraced and some semi-detached homes have no side access, so the only way to the back windows is through the house. For outsides, that means someone needs to be in to let me through. I’ll carry the hose through carefully and put a cloth down if the floor needs it. If that doesn’t suit you, I can clean the front only, and you can decide about the back later.
What about gravel drives and lawns?
Gravel and lawns are fine. The hose rolls over them, and pure water doesn’t mark paving or harm grass. On soft, wet lawns I’ll take care not to leave footprints in the same place.
Tell me once, and I’ll remember
Once you’ve told me about gates, pets and parking, I note it for your home. On a regular round, you won’t need to repeat it each visit; just tell me if anything changes, like a new dog, a new lock or building work.
Why do I ask so many questions?
Because the details change how the visit goes. Knowing about a locked gate or a dog in advance means fewer missed windows and no surprises on either side.
What about children playing outside?
If children are playing in the garden, I’ll work around them and keep the hose tidy. A long pole needs space, so I may ask them to stay clear of the bit I’m working on for a minute.
Common questions
Do I need to be in?
Not for outsides, if access is clear. Do I need to be home?
What if my dog barks the whole time?
That’s fine, as long as it’s indoors.
Do you need parking?
It helps if I can park near the house, because the hose runs from the van.
For homes in Wickford or Rayleigh, get a quote.
