Hiring a power washing company may seem simple — you look one up, get a quote, and schedule the job. ✅ But in reality, not all power washing companies are created equal. A poor choice could lead to damaged siding, half-finished jobs, or worse, liability issues. 😬
Before you let anyone near your home with high-pressure equipment and cleaning chemicals, it’s essential to vet the company properly. This guide walks you through the exact steps to ensure you’re hiring a professional, trustworthy power washer who will do the job right. 🧼🔍
🔎 1. Research Online Reviews and Ratings
Start your vetting process with a deep dive into their online reputation:
- ⭐ Google Reviews
- 🛠️ Yelp
- 🧽 Facebook business pages
- 📇 Better Business Bureau (BBB)
What should you look for?
✅ Consistently high ratings
✅ Detailed reviews with photos
✅ Mentions of professionalism, punctuality, and quality
✅ How the company handles negative feedback
A good power washing company will have more than just a few 5-star ratings — they’ll have real stories from satisfied customers.
📋 2. Ask for Proof of Insurance and Licensing
This step is non-negotiable. Power washing involves high pressure, slippery conditions, and ladders — meaning accidents and damage can happen.
Always ask:
- “Do you carry general liability insurance?”
- “Do you have workers’ compensation for your employees?”
- “Are you licensed to operate in this area?”
Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and double-check that the coverage is current and matches the company’s name.
🛡️ Insurance protects both you and them — and a reputable company won’t hesitate to provide proof.
📞 3. Interview Them Like a Professional Contractor
Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few candidates, ask questions — don’t just compare prices.
Try these:
- What type of surfaces do you specialize in?
- Do you use soft washing or pressure washing?
- What cleaning products do you use? Are they safe for plants/pets?
- How long have you been in business?
- Can I see photos of past jobs?
These questions show you’re an informed customer — and help weed out anyone who’s inexperienced or just winging it. 🧠
🧾 4. Get a Written Quote with Details
Verbal quotes are a red flag. Always request a written estimate that includes:
- Exact services (e.g., siding, driveway, roof, gutters)
- Square footage or pricing per area
- Type of cleaning solution used
- Timeline for completion
- Any warranties or guarantees
Written estimates protect you from surprise charges — and give you leverage if the results don’t match what was promised.
📄 Bonus tip: If the quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Watch out for ultra-low bids that skip important prep work or safety protocols. 💸🚩
📷 5. Ask for Before-and-After Photos
A reputable company should have a portfolio of before-and-after shots from past jobs. These aren’t just for bragging — they give you a visual expectation of the results.
Look for:
- Work that matches your surface types (wood, concrete, stucco, etc.)
- Clean lines and complete coverage
- No damage, streaks, or missed spots
Some companies even offer to take before-and-after pics of your own home as proof of job quality. 📸✨
⏳ 6. Check Scheduling, Availability, and Punctuality
Your time matters. A great power washing company should:
- Respond quickly to inquiries
- Show up for the estimate when promised
- Give a clear timeline for the work
- Communicate any delays or changes in schedule
Responsiveness and punctuality are early indicators of professionalism. If they ghost you, show up late, or cancel last-minute — it might be a sign to look elsewhere. 🕒
💬 7. Ask About Guarantees or Follow-Ups
What happens if the results don’t meet expectations?
A quality company should offer:
- A satisfaction guarantee
- Free touch-ups for missed areas
- A walkthrough after the job is done to ensure you’re happy
Don’t be afraid to ask, “What happens if I’m not satisfied with the job?” If the answer is vague or dismissive, proceed with caution. 👎
🧑🔧 8. Evaluate Their Equipment and Setup
You can learn a lot by simply observing their gear. A serious power washing company will have:
- Professional-grade equipment
- Soft-wash systems for delicate areas
- Clean, well-maintained vehicles
- Safety gear like goggles, ladders, and boots
If someone pulls up in an unmarked car with a hardware store power washer… that’s a red flag. 🚫🧯
✅ Final Vetting Checklist Before You Hire
Here’s a quick rundown of everything you should confirm before saying yes:
✔️ Verified insurance (general liability + workers’ comp)
✔️ Business license and experience
✔️ Great online reviews and photo examples
✔️ Written estimate with service details
✔️ Reasonable, transparent pricing
✔️ Communication is prompt and professional
✔️ Satisfaction guarantee or touch-up policy
🧼 Final Thoughts
Vetting a power washing company might feel like extra work, but it saves you from stress, damage, and wasted money down the line. With a little diligence, you’ll find a professional who treats your home like their own — and leaves your property spotless. 🏡💦
Don’t settle for “good enough.” Make sure the person handling 4,000 PSI near your siding knows exactly what they’re doing. The peace of mind is worth it. ✅✨
