Hiring a power washing contractor is a smart move to maintain your property — but only if you’re bringing on someone who is properly licensed and insured. Skipping this step could cost you in the long run, whether it’s damage to your home or a lawsuit over an injury on your property. 😬
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to verify a contractor’s license and insurance, why it matters, and what red flags to watch out for — so you can hire with confidence. 🛡️
🚫 Why It’s Risky to Skip This Step
Power washing equipment can output 2,000 to 4,000 PSI or more — enough to etch concrete, crack siding, or injure someone if misused. When you hire an unlicensed or uninsured contractor, you’re essentially assuming all the risk.
Here’s what could happen if you don’t verify credentials:
- 🧱 Property damage with no reimbursement
- 🤕 Injury to the contractor or others — and you could be liable
- ⚖️ Legal battles over incomplete or poor-quality work
- 🧍♂️ Disputes where the contractor suddenly disappears and you’re left in the lurch
A license shows the contractor has met local and state requirements. Insurance protects both them and you. Verifying both is essential.
📑 Step 1: Ask for License Details Upfront
A professional contractor won’t hesitate to provide their licensing info. Here’s how to ask:
“Can you share your business license number and the state/city that issued it?”
Make sure the license is relevant to power washing. In some areas, general contracting or handyman licenses may not legally cover pressure washing.
Also, check for local business registration in your city or county. Some municipalities require both state and local licenses.
🔍 Tip: If they get defensive or vague, that’s a red flag.
🌐 Step 2: Verify Their License Online
Most states have an online portal to verify contractor licenses. Here are a few examples:
- California: CSLB.ca.gov
- Texas: TDLR.texas.gov
- Florida: MyFloridaLicense.com
- Illinois: IDFPR.com
- New York: DCA.nyc.gov (for NYC-specific licenses)
Search by business name, license number, or individual name. Look for:
✅ License status (Active)
✅ No disciplinary actions
✅ Up-to-date renewal date
✅ The correct trade or classification (e.g., pressure cleaning)
If your state doesn’t have an online system, call the licensing agency directly.
🧾 Step 3: Request a Certificate of Insurance
Verifying insurance is just as important — if not more so. Ask the contractor to email you a Certificate of Insurance (COI). This document should come directly from their insurance provider, not just a screenshot or copy.
Here’s what to look for on the COI:
✅ General Liability Coverage (typically $1M–$2M minimum)
✅ Workers’ Compensation if they have employees
✅ Your name and address listed as the certificate holder
✅ A valid expiration date (not expired or near expiration)
If something goes wrong — cracked window, damaged roof, worker injury — this insurance kicks in.
📌 Important: If the contractor only has personal or auto insurance, that doesn’t count.
🚩 Watch for These Red Flags
When hiring a power washing contractor, be cautious of:
🚫 “We don’t need a license for this kind of work.”
🚫 “I’m covered under my buddy’s insurance.”
🚫 “Trust me, I’ve been doing this for years.”
🚫 No physical address or company name listed anywhere
🚫 Pressure to pay upfront without documents
The more professional a contractor is, the more transparent they’ll be about licensing and insurance.
🧠 Bonus: Check for Additional Credentials
While not always required, additional certifications show a contractor takes their work seriously. These may include:
✅ PWNA – Power Washers of North America
✅ UAMCC – United Association of Mobile Contract Cleaners
✅ OSHA Training (especially important for commercial work)
✅ Environmental certifications for water recovery or eco-friendly practices
These extra credentials demonstrate a level of professionalism and ongoing education.
🧍 Ask the Right Questions
When interviewing potential power washing companies, be direct:
- “Are you licensed for power washing in this area?”
- “Can you send over your Certificate of Insurance?”
- “Do you carry workers’ comp for any team members?”
- “How long have you been in business under this name?”
- “Are you bonded?”
The answers to these questions will quickly separate pros from amateurs.
🧼 Final Thoughts
Verifying a power washing contractor’s license and insurance isn’t just a box to check — it’s the foundation of a safe and professional experience.
When you hire someone who is properly credentialed:
✅ You’re protected financially
✅ Your property is in safer hands
✅ You can trust they take their business seriously
Don’t skip the step. A 10-minute verification process can save you thousands in damages, legal headaches, and stress. Choose wisely, and your home or business will shine — without any unwanted surprises. ✨🔍
