Hiring a power washing service might seem straightforward — call a company, schedule an appointment, and watch the grime disappear. 🧼💦 But before you sign on the dotted line or hand over a deposit, it’s crucial to ask the right questions.
Asking smart, informed questions can protect your property, save you money, and ensure you’re hiring a true professional — not a weekend warrior with a rented machine. 🛑 Here’s a list of the most important questions to ask any power washing company before hiring them.
1. 🛠️ Are You Licensed and Insured?
Why ask: This should be your very first question. Any legitimate power washing company should carry general liability insurance and, depending on your state, a valid business license.
What to look for:
- Proof of insurance
- Worker’s compensation coverage
- Local or state business license
- Bonding for added protection
If a company hesitates or can’t provide proof, that’s a red flag. 🚩 If someone gets injured or your property is damaged, you could be liable without proper coverage.
2. 🧼 What Surfaces Do You Specialize In?
Not all surfaces are created equal — and not all power washers are trained to clean them.
Why it matters: Cleaning siding is different from cleaning concrete, wood, or roofing. Using the wrong method can cause permanent damage. 🧱🚫
Ask about:
- Experience with siding (vinyl, stucco, wood)
- Roof washing (soft wash only!)
- Decks, fences, driveways, patios
- Painted surfaces and sealants
If a company uses high pressure on delicate areas, run the other way. 🏃♂️💨
3. 💧 Do You Use Pressure Washing or Soft Washing?
These two terms are often confused, but they’re very different.
- Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to blast away dirt — great for hard surfaces like concrete.
- Soft washing uses lower pressure and eco-friendly detergents to clean delicate areas like siding and roofs.
Why ask: A good company will know when to use each technique. Ask them which method they recommend and why.
4. 🧪 What Cleaning Products Do You Use?
Cleaning chemicals can affect your plants, pets, and property. 🌱🐾
Ask about:
- Biodegradable and eco-friendly options ♻️
- Safety around children and animals
- Potential for runoff into landscaping or water features
- How they protect surrounding areas (taping, rinsing plants)
You don’t want your flowers wilting or your lawn dying after a wash. A responsible company will take precautions and communicate what to expect.
5. 🕒 What’s Your Availability and Timeline?
Timing matters — especially if you’re prepping for a party, sale, or seasonal cleanup. ⏱️
Ask:
- How soon can they schedule the job?
- How long will it take?
- What time of day do they operate?
- What happens if weather delays the job?
A reliable contractor should be flexible, realistic, and communicative about timeframes.
6. 💲 Do You Offer a Written Quote or Contract?
Always get the details in writing. Verbal estimates can lead to surprise fees and misunderstandings. 🧾
Your quote or contract should include:
- Total cost (including taxes/fees)
- What’s being cleaned
- Equipment and materials used
- Payment terms and due dates
- Cancellation and rescheduling policy
- Warranty or satisfaction guarantee (if applicable)
If a company won’t put it in writing, that’s a huge red flag. 🚩
7. 🔍 Do You Have References or Online Reviews?
You want proof of performance. Ask for recent references or check platforms like:
- Yelp
- Nextdoor
- BBB
Pro tip: Look for consistency in reviews. Praise for professionalism, punctuality, and great results? ✅ Repeated complaints about damage or poor communication? ❌
8. 🧹 Do You Handle Cleanup After the Job?
A good power washing job shouldn’t leave behind puddles, debris, or chemical residue.
Ask about:
- Rinsing off landscaping or surfaces
- Cleaning up runoff
- Removing tape or protective coverings
- Final walk-through or inspection with you
This shows whether they care about details and customer satisfaction. 🌟
9. 🔧 What Equipment Do You Use?
Professional-grade equipment delivers better and faster results. Ask about:
- PSI and GPM ratings
- Commercial vs. residential units
- Surface-specific attachments
- Heated vs. cold water systems
Why ask: Someone using a low-end pressure washer from a home improvement store may not deliver professional results — and they might cause damage if they don’t know what they’re doing.
10. 💬 What’s Your Guarantee or Follow-Up Policy?
Even pros sometimes miss spots or make mistakes. A trustworthy company will offer a satisfaction guarantee.
Ask:
- What happens if you’re not happy with the results?
- Will they return for touch-ups?
- Is there a timeline for reporting issues?
Look for companies that are customer-focused and proactive about accountability. 👍
Bonus Questions to Consider:
- Do you offer bundled services like gutter cleaning or sealing?
- Are there discounts for first-time customers or recurring service?
- How do you handle difficult-to-reach areas (e.g., second stories)?
- Do you use water reclamation or other eco-friendly methods?
The more you know, the better you can compare companies and protect your investment. 🏡
🧠 Final Thoughts
Hiring a power washing service shouldn’t be a leap of faith. By asking the right questions, you can weed out amateurs, spot red flags, and hire a company that respects your time, property, and expectations. 🧽📋
Good contractors welcome questions — they see it as a sign you’re serious about quality. So ask away, compare answers, and only move forward when you feel 100% confident.
Your home deserves the best — and the best results start with the right conversation. 💬🏠
