Now a major awareness campaign is being launched in Linlithgow to ensure your window cleaner's shammy isn't hiding a shady character.
Ian Geddes, a licensed local window cleaner who raised the issue with community councillors, claims there are about six licensed workmen in the town – but about 16 operating illegally.
And without licence checks, you have no idea who you are letting on to your property.
He said: "Someone could come straight out of Saughton Prison, spend £200 buying a ladder and sponges and set themselves up in business."
By law all window cleaning firms and their staff must be licensed. All should carry photographic ID, showing they've had their records checked and have full public liability insurance.
For more information see this week's Journal and Gazette out on February 5, 2010.editorial@journalandgazette.co.uk