Window cleaner's licence

This information is for guidance only. You should get your own legal advice before you apply for a window cleaner’s licence.

When do I need a window cleaner’s licence?

You will need a window cleaner’s licence if you are working as a window cleaner whether self-employed or not.

Do I need to apply for a window cleaner’s licence if I have been awarded a contract by South Lanarkshire Council?

Yes.

How to apply

You can apply online or if you already have a licence and want to make changes or renew your licence you should contact the licensing office for a username and password.

South Lanarkshire is divided into four zones. These are East Kilbride; Hamilton; Clydesdale; Rutherglen and Cambuslang. However, you can obtain one licence to trade in all or any of the four zones.

Do I need to tell you about convictions more than five years old?

No. As long as you were convicted more than five years ago, and you did not go to prison. You must tell us if the conviction involved:

• a prison sentence which lasted for less than six months, unless you were convicted more than seven years ago
• a prison sentence of more than six months but less than 30 months, if you were convicted less than 10 years ago
• a prison sentence of more than 30 months

You must always make sure that you are referring to the date of the conviction and not the date of the offence.

If you're not sure, speak to your solicitor. You must tell us about all convictions less than five years old. If you fail to tell us about a current conviction, you could be charged by Police Scotland under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982.

Is there anything I have to send with my application?

You must send us four recent colour passport photographs, proof of your identity, national insurance number, current driving licence and the appropriate fee. 

What happens to my application form when I apply for my licence?

When we receive your application a copy is sent to Police Scotland.

Can I start work before my application is approved?

No, you will need to wait until a decision has been made on your application before you can start work.

Can anyone object to my application?

Once you have sent us the application, there is a 28 day objection period during which anyone who wants to object to your application can contact us. Contact your solicitor if you are in any doubt.

What happens next?

After the 28 day objection period, your application and all the relevant comments or objections are examined and a decision is made as to whether or not the application needs to be put before the appropriate committee or be dealt with under delegated powers (that is, powers given to the officers in consultation with the chair or depute chair of the licensing committee).

What happens if my application is refused?

If we refuse the application, you may write to us asking for reasons for the decision. We have 10 days from the date we receive your request to respond. You will need to ask for reasons within 21 days of the date of the decision to refuse your application. You also have the right to appeal to the sheriff court within 28 days from the date of the decision.

If we refuse your application, you should contact your solicitor if you have not already done so.

If my application is refused or withdrawn, will I get my money back?

No. The fee you pay is an application fee and will not be refunded it if your application is withdrawn or refused.

How long will my licence last?

Licences are normally granted for three years.

Will you normally attach conditions to my licence if it is granted?

Yes. Standard conditions apply and the licensing committee may attach other conditions.

Comments and suggestions

We are committed to customer service and we are always interested in your comments and suggestions on any part of our service. You can email licensing@southlanarkshire.gov.uk with your comments.