When hiring a power washing service, it might be tempting to go with the cheapest quote — but before you hand over the job to the lowest bidder, there’s one major thing to check first: are they licensed and insured? 🕵️♂️💬
While power washing might seem like a straightforward job, it actually involves high-pressure machinery, water lines, surface-specific techniques, and potential property damage risks. If you hire someone without the right credentials, you could be putting your home, your wallet, and even your personal liability at risk.
In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly why licenses and insurance matter — and how to verify them before hiring. ✅💡
🏠 What Does It Mean to Be Licensed?
When a power washing company is “licensed,” it generally means:
- They’ve registered with the state or local municipality as a legal business
- They may hold a specialized contractor’s license for pressure washing or exterior cleaning
- They meet local requirements for water runoff control, environmental standards, and safety practices
Some states require a formal contractor’s license, especially for jobs over a certain dollar amount. Others may only require a basic business license.
💬 Why It Matters:
A licensed company is accountable. They’re registered with the state, follow local laws, and risk penalties or loss of their license if they cut corners.
📋 What Insurance Should a Power Washer Carry?
There are two types of insurance every power washing company should have:
- General Liability Insurance 🛡️
Covers damage to your property caused during the job — like water intrusion, broken siding, or ruined landscaping. - Workers’ Compensation Insurance 🧑🔧
Covers the medical expenses and lost wages of workers if they’re injured on your property.
🚨 If a company lacks these and something goes wrong, you could be on the hook for repairs — or worse, a lawsuit.
😬 What Can Go Wrong Without Proper Coverage?
You might think, “It’s just water and soap — what’s the big deal?” But pressure washing is powerful, and things can go wrong fast.
Here are just a few real-world risks:
- 💧 Water forced behind siding, causing mold or wood rot
- 🪟 Shattered windows from too much pressure
- 🚪 Damaged garage doors, light fixtures, or trim
- 🧱 Etched concrete or ruined paint
- 💥 Equipment fires or electrical shocks
- 🦴 Worker injury from ladder falls or equipment malfunctions
If the company isn’t insured, you might end up paying thousands in repairs or legal fees. It’s not worth the risk. ❌💸
🔍 How to Check If a Power Washer Is Licensed and Insured
Before signing any contract, ask the company directly:
✅ “Can you provide proof of business license and insurance?”
A reputable company will gladly provide:
- A copy of their business license or contractor license
- A Certificate of Insurance (COI) showing general liability coverage
- Their workers’ compensation policy (if applicable)
Tip: Call the insurance provider listed on the COI to verify it’s current and valid.
You can also check your state’s contractor license board website to confirm the business is active and in good standing.
🧠 What Happens If You Hire Someone Without These?
Let’s say you skip the formalities and hire someone from Craigslist or a local ad who says they can do it for cheap.
Here’s what you’re potentially facing:
⚠️ No recourse if they damage your home
If they break something, you’ll be left chasing them for compensation — and if they disappear, you’re stuck.
⚠️ You may be liable if they get hurt
If an uninsured worker falls off a ladder, they could sue you for medical costs or lost wages.
⚠️ Voided home insurance claims
Some homeowners’ policies won’t cover damage caused by unlicensed contractors — even if it was accidental.
In short: cutting corners on licensing and insurance could cost you big time. 🔧💥
🛠️ Signs You’re Dealing with a Professional
Licensed and insured companies usually also:
- Provide detailed estimates and contracts 📄
- Use commercial-grade equipment 🧽
- Wear branded uniforms or drive marked vehicles 🚐
- Have online reviews, a website, and business presence 🌐
- Offer guarantees or satisfaction policies 🏆
If someone refuses to show proof of licensing or insurance, walk away. 🚫 It’s a red flag.
🧼 Why This Matters for Different Property Types
Depending on where and what you’re cleaning, the stakes can get even higher:
🏡 For homeowners – Avoid costly repairs, personal liability, or insurance claims.
🏢 For landlords or commercial property managers – Liability can extend to tenants and customers.
🏗️ For construction sites or HOAs – Many require licensed vendors for compliance.
📷 For real estate listings – Damage caused during prep could delay sales or inspections.
💬 Final Thoughts
Hiring a power washer may seem like a simple decision — but overlooking licenses and insurance is a recipe for disaster. It’s not just about protecting your home — it’s about protecting your finances, your liability, and your peace of mind. 🧠💰
A legitimate power washing service will:
✅ Be licensed in accordance with local or state laws
✅ Carry general liability insurance and (ideally) workers’ comp
✅ Gladly provide proof upon request
✅ Operate professionally, not just “as a side hustle”
So the next time someone says they’ll “power wash your house cheap,” make sure you ask the important questions — and always verify before you hire. 🧾🔍
