Commercial window cleaning often involves specialist equipment, access systems and strict safety procedures. Whether cleaning takes place on a low rise office building or a complex high rise façade, a clear method statement helps ensure every stage of the work is planned and controlled.

Facilities managers are responsible for ensuring contractors operate safely and comply with workplace regulations. A detailed method statement provides reassurance that the cleaning provider understands the building, the access requirements and the risks involved.

It also helps establish clear expectations before work begins. By documenting how the cleaning will be carried out, facilities teams can review procedures, confirm safety measures and ensure the work aligns with the building’s operational needs.

This article explores what facilities managers should include in a commercial window cleaning method statement and why this documentation plays an important role in safe building maintenance.

Why method statements matter for commercial window cleaning

A method statement outlines how a contractor plans to carry out a specific task. In commercial window cleaning, it explains the equipment, processes and safety measures that will be used to complete the work.

This document helps facilities managers understand exactly how cleaning will be delivered and whether the proposed approach is suitable for the building.

Method statements support building management by helping to:

• Identify risks before work begins

• Confirm safe access procedures

• Ensure compliance with safety regulations

• Clarify responsibilities between contractor and client

• Provide a reference for site teams during the work

Work at height regulations highlighted by the Health and Safety Executive emphasise the importance of proper planning and risk assessment before work begins.

For facilities teams, reviewing the window cleaning method statement is therefore an essential step in contractor approval and project planning.

Many organisations request method statements alongside risk assessments when appointing contractors for commercial cleaning or specialist window cleaning services.

Key sections every window cleaning method statement should include

A comprehensive method statement should clearly explain how the work will be carried out from start to finish. This allows facilities managers to assess whether the proposed approach is safe, practical and suitable for the building.

Scope of work

The method statement should begin by defining the scope of the cleaning activity. This section explains which areas of the building will be cleaned and what type of work will take place.

Typical information includes:

• Building elevations included in the cleaning programme

• Types of glass or façade materials

• Internal or external cleaning requirements

• Frequency of cleaning

This ensures both the contractor and facilities team have a shared understanding of the work involved.

Access methods

Commercial window cleaning often requires specialist access equipment. The method statement should clearly explain how technicians will reach each part of the building safely.

Access methods may include:

• Building maintenance units (BMUs)

• Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs)

• Rope access systems

• Water fed pole systems

The document should explain why the chosen access method is suitable for the building and how it will be used safely.

Guidance from the International Powered Access Federation highlights the importance of selecting appropriate access equipment when working at height.

Equipment and cleaning materials

Facilities managers should review the equipment and materials that will be used during the cleaning process.

This section typically includes:

• Cleaning solutions and chemicals

• Water purification systems

• Specialist tools or brushes

• Personal protective equipment

Understanding the equipment used helps ensure that cleaning processes will not damage the building façade.

Step-by-step cleaning process

A clear description of the cleaning process helps facilities teams understand how technicians will carry out the work.

This section should outline each stage of the task, from arrival on site through to completion.

Providing a structured process ensures the work is carried out consistently and safely.

Safety and risk controls that must be included

Safety procedures are one of the most important components of a window cleaning method statement. Facilities managers must be confident that technicians can carry out the work without putting themselves or building occupants at risk.

Work at height safety measures

Window cleaning frequently involves working at height. The method statement should outline how technicians will remain secure while accessing the building façade.

This may include harness systems, anchor points or guard rails depending on the access method.

Work at height guidance published by the Health and Safety Executive highlights the need for appropriate fall protection and safe access planning.

Risk assessment references

The method statement should refer to the associated risk assessment that identifies potential hazards.

Common risks may include:

• Working at height

• Falling objects

• Equipment movement near pedestrians

• Weather related hazards

Linking the method statement to the risk assessment ensures all risks are clearly addressed.

Emergency procedures

Facilities managers should ensure the document includes emergency procedures in case an incident occurs.

Emergency planning may include:

• Rescue procedures for technicians working at height

• Contact details for supervisors

• Site evacuation processes

• First aid arrangements

Clear emergency procedures ensure teams can respond quickly if required.

Operational details facilities managers should review

Beyond safety procedures, method statements should also include practical information that helps the work run smoothly.

Facilities teams should review operational details such as timing, communication and site management.

Work scheduling

The method statement should specify when the work will take place and how long it is expected to last.

This allows facilities managers to coordinate cleaning activity around building operations.

Site management arrangements

Cleaning teams may need to manage pedestrian areas, deliveries or restricted access zones while working.

The method statement should outline how technicians will protect occupants and members of the public during the work.

Environmental considerations

Facilities managers may also review environmental factors such as water usage or chemical selection.

Industry guidance from the British Cleaning Council highlights the growing importance of environmentally responsible cleaning practices.

Why experienced window cleaning professionals remain essential

Even the most detailed method statement relies on experienced professionals to carry out the work safely.

Commercial window cleaning requires technicians who understand specialist equipment, building design and safety procedures.

Experienced professionals provide:

• Knowledge of safe access methods

• Careful handling of glass and façade materials

• Awareness of changing weather conditions

• Adaptability when working around occupied buildings

Method statements provide the framework for safe operations, but skilled technicians ensure those plans are delivered effectively.

How DOC Cleaning supports safe window cleaning operations

Our window cleaning services are supported by detailed planning and clear documentation. We provide method statements and risk assessments so facilities managers have full visibility over how work will be carried out.

Our teams use specialist access equipment including water fed pole systems, MEWPs and rope access techniques to safely maintain building façades.

We also work closely with facilities teams to schedule cleaning activity around building operations and ensure work is carried out with minimal disruption.

By combining careful planning with experienced technicians, we help facilities managers maintain clean and well maintained buildings while supporting safe working practices.

Understanding how safe window cleaning is planned

A clear method statement gives facilities managers confidence that window cleaning work will be carried out safely and professionally.

If you would like to learn more about how commercial window cleaning is planned and delivered, our team would be happy to help. Visit our contact page to explore how we support buildings across the UK.