Window cleaning: how to hire the right window cleaner and get RUT

What does window cleaning include?

Window cleaning normally means that the glass is cleaned on the inside and outside. If you have coupled windows, meaning windows with several sashes that can be opened, the inner panes are usually cleaned as well. It is important that you agree on what is included, as it differs between companies.

• Outside and inside of the glass
• Inner panes of coupled windows
• Wiping frames, sashes and window sills (often an add-on)
• Glass doors, patio doors and glazed balconies
• Roof windows and hard-to-reach sections

What affects the price?

The price is usually set per window, per glass surface or as a fixed price for the whole home. Ask for a quote and state the number and type of windows. The biggest factors are:

• The number of windows and how many sides and inner panes are to be cleaned
• The size and type of the windows, for example windows with glazing bars
• Height and access – does the job require a ladder, a cherry picker or scaffolding?
• Whether frames and sills are to be wiped
• How dirty the windows are, for example after building work
• Whether you want recurring cleaning, which sometimes gives a lower price per visit

RUT deduction for window cleaning

Window cleaning in your home counts as cleaning and qualifies for the RUT deduction. You can deduct 50 % of the labour cost. RUT and ROT together may not exceed SEK 75,000 per person per year, of which no more than SEK 50,000 may be ROT.

The deduction applies to the work, not to travel or equipment such as a hired cherry picker. The company makes the deduction directly on the invoice, which requires the company to hold F-tax approval. You can see how much of your deduction you have used with the Swedish Tax Agency.

Safety when working at height

Window cleaning at height involves a real risk of falling. A reputable company plans the work and uses suitable equipment, such as telescopic poles, ladders that stand firmly or a lift. Under the work environment rules, the employer is responsible for making sure the work is carried out safely.

Ask how the company intends to reach high or awkward windows, and whether it has liability insurance that covers damage to your property. In blocks of flats, permission from the housing association or landlord may also be needed for a lift in the courtyard.

Preparations

• Move pot plants, ornaments and curtains away from the window sills
• Make sure the windows can be opened and that you know how to open them
• Clear access to the windows both inside and outside, for example by moving garden furniture
• Mention windows with solar film, special coatings or damage
• Arrange parking and access to the garden or courtyard

What should the quote contain?

• The number of windows, sides and inner panes included
• Whether frames, sashes and sills are included
• Price per window or fixed total price, with the labour cost shown separately for RUT
• Any surcharges for a lift, ladder or hard-to-reach windows
• What applies in rain or sub-zero temperatures and whether the date can be moved
• How complaints are handled if streaks are left

Common mistakes

A common mistake is to compare only the price per window without checking what is included, for example whether inner panes count as separate surfaces. Other mistakes are not mentioning hard-to-reach windows in your request, which can lead to surcharges afterwards, and booking window cleaning straight after a renovation while dust is still swirling around. Always check that the company holds F-tax approval before you accept.

Get quotes via Fixtorget

On Fixtorget you describe your windows for free, and up to four vetted companies can contact you. In the profile you can see whether the company has reviewed proof of insurance and what previous customers thought. The price can be confirmed in a cost specification that you approve in the portal.

Frequently asked questions