A youth advocate believes it will take more than a heavy fine to solve the Christchurch's window washer problem.

Police are cracking down on unlicensed window washers after complaints of violence and intimidation, and those caught could face a $20,000 fine.

But Bevan Seale, who runs the Canterbury Youth Development Programme, insists its more than the lure of quick buck that brings young people to the practice.

"These boys are not attending school, they've got no routines and boundaries at home, there's very little structure around their life."

Seale said police are doing the right thing cracking down on window washers, but need to make sure they're being redirected into a meaningful activity.

"Education is the key, really. We need to get them in some sort of education and aim their talents in the right direction rather than cleaning windows at an intersection."