Hiring a power washing company can make a big difference in how your home or business looks — but before you put pen to paper, you need to ask the right questions. 💬 Whether it’s for your driveway, deck, siding, or storefront, signing a contract without clarity can lead to misunderstandings, missed expectations, or even costly mistakes.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you should ask before signing a power washing contract — to make sure you get the results you’re paying for 💸 and avoid any surprises along the way. 👇
🧼 1. What’s Included in the Service?
Start with the basics. Not all power washing jobs are the same. Ask:
- Which areas will be cleaned? (Deck, siding, roof, driveway, etc.)
- Will detergents or chemicals be used? Are they eco-friendly? 🌿
- Is spot treatment included for things like rust, oil, or mold?
- Will they move patio furniture, planters, or cover fragile items?
Getting a clear scope ensures both parties know exactly what to expect. 📋
📷 2. Do You Have Before-and-After Photos?
Any reputable power washing company should be able to show photos of previous jobs. These help you:
✅ Verify their quality of work
✅ See how they handle different surfaces
✅ Get inspired for your own space
If they can’t show you past work, that’s a red flag. 🚩
🛡️ 3. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is non-negotiable. Power washing can cause damage if not done correctly. Always ask:
- Are you fully insured for property damage and worker injury?
- Are you licensed to operate in this city/state?
- Can you provide proof of insurance?
Hiring someone without coverage could leave you liable for damages. 😬
💸 4. What’s the Total Cost — and What Might Add to It?
Ask for an itemized estimate that includes all charges. Clarify:
- Is there a flat fee or hourly rate?
- Are materials, labor, and travel included?
- What happens if they need to spend extra time on tough stains?
- Is there a fee for larger areas or multiple surfaces?
The more you clarify now, the fewer surprises you’ll have on the invoice. 🧾
📆 5. What’s the Timeline for Completion?
Time is money, especially if you’re coordinating around tenants, guests, or weather. Ask:
- How long will the job take?
- When can you start?
- What happens if it rains or the weather doesn’t cooperate? 🌧️
- Are there any delays I should be aware of?
Professional crews should be able to provide a realistic timeframe and backup options. ⏱️
🧪 6. What Kind of Equipment Will You Use?
Different surfaces require different types of cleaning. For example:
- Soft wash systems for roofs and siding
- High-pressure for concrete and stone
- Hot water for oil-stained driveways
- Specialty nozzles or biodegradable detergents
Make sure they’re using the right tools for the job. The wrong pressure or chemicals can damage paint, wood, or landscaping. 🌿❌
🔄 7. Do You Guarantee Your Work?
You want a company that stands behind their service. Ask:
- What happens if I’m not satisfied with the results?
- Do you offer re-cleaning or refunds?
- Is there a satisfaction guarantee in writing?
A company with confidence in their service will gladly back it up. 👍
📞 8. Who Will Be On Site?
If you’re hiring a larger company, the person you speak with may not be the one doing the work. Ask:
- Will a manager be present?
- How experienced is the technician?
- Can I meet the team beforehand?
This adds a layer of accountability and professionalism. 🧑🔧
🧹 9. What Are the Clean-Up Procedures?
After the power washing is done, make sure the crew:
- Properly disposes of any runoff or debris
- Returns furniture or fixtures to their original position
- Leaves no residue or standing water
- Cleans up detergent spills or trash
Good service doesn’t end when the spray stops — it ends when your property looks better than before. 🏡✨
🗓️ 10. Can You Provide a Written Contract?
Always get everything in writing. A contract should include:
✅ Scope of work
✅ Timeline
✅ Price
✅ Guarantee or warranty
✅ Cancellation policy
✅ Insurance info
This is your protection in case something goes wrong — and it shows the company is operating professionally. 📑✅
🧠 Bonus: Ask for References
Especially if this is a large job or commercial property, ask for references from recent clients. Look for reviews on:
- Yelp
- Nextdoor
- Local business directories
A company with nothing to hide will gladly point you to satisfied customers. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚫 Red Flags to Watch Out For
If you notice any of the following, think twice before signing:
🚩 Vague estimates or no contract
🚩 No proof of insurance
🚩 High-pressure sales tactics
🚩 No reviews or references
🚩 They avoid answering your questions directly
✅ Final Thoughts
Hiring a power washing service should be easy — and it can be — when you ask the right questions up front. A trustworthy company will welcome your questions, provide transparent answers, and help you feel confident before moving forward.
Whether you’re sprucing up your home, prepping for a sale, or maintaining a rental, the right contractor can transform your space — and protect your property in the process. 🧼✨
Before you sign, slow down and ask. You’ll thank yourself later. 😉
