Forensic Window Cleaning Defeats Lawsuits

How many times have you cleaned a window only to discover damage that someone else had left behind?  Which made you wonder whether you might be blamed?  Unfortunately this is a very common problem that we all have to face at some time or another.  I have had to face it myself.

The first step towards a solution is realizing that our customers will never understand what we know about surface damage.  No matter how much we explain it to them.  Even when such damage is revealed.  In my case it was a friend and lifelong customer who blamed me for scratches left by my squeegee blade.  Ultimately they gave in to the situation realizing that I had to know way more than they did.

The next step comes by explaining to them that there are actually a multitude of different kinds of surface damage that can be revealed by a very simple cleaning.  Evan if it is the first cleaning (post construction) of new glass.  Also that we are the best professional to identify if there is damage and what exactly is the source or cause of such damage.

The third step is to be able to accurately identify any damage and be able to intelligently explain to them the damage and the cause.  Such that we could do the same in court if that became necessary.  We must be able to defend ourselves in order to preserve our company.  This requires a complete understanding and full knowledge of the matter at hand.

This third step is what I would like to help you with.  So that you will be adequately prepared.  To do this I will be writing a series of consecutive posts on this subject of "Forensic Window Cleaning".  There will be micrographs of scratches, etched glass, seal failure of low e IG units, and other assorted creatures.  Also different tests that can be performed on new window glass along with the window surfaces in question.  

I have made use of this practice over the years to save window cleaners from huge losses.  Some of these tests are very simple, but very powerful.  They can prove beyond any doubt that you are not responsible.  Of course someone was.  Usually it is another subcontractor that worked under the builder at the time of construction.  Who is long gone no one even knowing who they were.