After a severe storm or flood, the aftermath can be overwhelming — mud-caked driveways, mildew-coated siding, and debris-strewn patios are just the beginning. One of the most effective ways to bring your property back to life is by hiring a professional power washer. But not all companies are created equal — and after a storm, the pressure to act fast can lead to rushed decisions. ⏳
In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly what you need to know about hiring a power washer after storm damage or flooding, from safety considerations to choosing the right contractor. 🛠️🌪️
⚠️ Why Post-Storm Power Washing Isn’t Just Cosmetic
Storms and flooding don’t just leave dirt behind — they often bring contaminants like:
- Raw sewage or chemicals 🧪
- Mold and mildew spores 🦠
- Oil, fuel, or automotive fluids
- Dead organic matter (leaves, branches, etc.) 🌿
This means your surfaces may be covered in more than just mud. A professional power washer doesn’t just make things look clean — they sanitize, disinfect, and help protect your home’s long-term health. 💧
🧯 Safety First: Don’t Rush In
Before you bring in a power washing crew, make sure it’s safe to do so. Here are a few post-storm safety steps to follow:
✅ Confirm power lines aren’t down near wet surfaces
✅ Inspect for structural damage (roof, siding, wood decks)
✅ Wait for floodwaters to fully recede
✅ Let the property dry out enough to prevent further saturation
✅ Document damage with photos before cleaning begins (for insurance) 📸
Remember, power washing isn’t a first response — it’s part of the cleanup process, not emergency restoration.
🧼 What a Power Washer Can (and Can’t) Handle
A skilled power washer can:
- Remove caked-on dirt and silt
- Clean mold and mildew off siding
- Wash away algae from hardscaping
- Sanitize surfaces touched by contaminated floodwaters
- Clear gutters clogged by storm debris
However, they typically won’t:
- Repair broken materials
- Replace damaged wood or roofing
- Extract standing water from interior spaces
- Provide mold remediation inside walls or insulation
🛑 If there’s deeper water damage or rot, consult a restoration contractor first.
🧪 Disinfection Is Critical After Flooding
It’s not enough to just “blast off” the grime. After storm flooding, you’ll want a contractor that uses disinfectants or biocides where needed.
Ask these key questions:
- Do you use EPA-approved disinfectants?
- Can you sanitize high-touch areas like outdoor furniture or railings?
- How do you handle mold-prone surfaces like wood decks?
Proper post-flood power washing is as much about health protection as it is aesthetics. ✅
📄 Insurance and Documentation
If you’re submitting a homeowner’s insurance claim for storm damage, power washing might be covered as part of your restoration expenses.
Before hiring anyone:
- Call your insurer and ask what’s covered
- Document all visible exterior damage with timestamps
- Ask your power washing company for a detailed invoice
Look for companies that work with insurance providers or can give you the paperwork needed to support your claim. 📑
🧰 Choosing the Right Power Washing Company
After a storm, shady contractors often emerge, capitalizing on panicked homeowners. Avoid falling victim to scams or shoddy workmanship by following these rules:
🔎 Check for:
- Proof of insurance and licensing
- Local references or online reviews
- Experience with post-storm or post-flood cleanups
- Proper equipment (hot water washers, sanitizing agents)
- Transparent pricing and written quotes
Avoid:
- Cash-only contractors with no paper trail
- Vague, lowball pricing
- Companies that pressure you to act without explanation
- Anyone unwilling to show credentials
🧠 Your best bet is a local, established company with a history of storm recovery work.
💰 What It Might Cost
Post-storm cleanups may be priced differently from standard services due to:
- Extra contamination risks
- Specialized cleaning products
- Extended time and labor
- Equipment wear and tear
Expect to pay more than a routine driveway wash — but beware of predatory pricing. A good company will explain the rates upfront and give you a fair quote based on the damage.
📌 Tip: Ask for an itemized estimate so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
⏱️ Don’t Wait Too Long
The longer you let grime, mold, and organic debris sit on your surfaces, the more damage it can do:
- Algae can eat into shingles and paint
- Mold can spread rapidly in humid conditions
- Silt and mud can stain porous surfaces
Within a few days to a week of the storm, schedule power washing before long-term damage sets in. ⚠️
✅ Final Checklist Before Hiring
Here’s your post-storm power washing hiring checklist:
✔️ Property is safe and ready for cleaning
✔️ Company is licensed and insured
✔️ They use sanitizing agents or EPA-approved cleaners
✔️ Experience with flood and storm cleanup
✔️ Detailed written estimate provided
✔️ References and reviews checked
✔️ Will provide an invoice for insurance documentation
✔️ Timeline and scope of work agreed upon
With the right team, you’ll go from disaster zone to clean, safe, and refreshed in no time. 💪
