Hiring a power washing company may seem like a simple task — find someone nearby, get a quote, and boom — clean house, driveway, or deck. But before you hand over your hard-earned cash or schedule an appointment, it’s critical to ask the right questions. 🧽🧠
Power washing involves strong water pressure, chemicals, and equipment that can damage your property if used incorrectly. By asking smart questions up front, you protect your home, your wallet, and your peace of mind. 🛡️
Here are the most important questions to ask — and what the answers should tell you — before you hire any power washing service. 💬✅
🛡️ 1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is the #1 question you should ask. Without proper insurance, you could be financially responsible for property damage or worker injuries that happen on your premises.
Ask specifically:
- Do you have general liability insurance?
- Do you carry workers’ compensation (if they have employees)?
- Can I see a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
📌 Red flag: If they hesitate, make excuses, or refuse to show proof — move on.
📋 2. What’s Included in Your Service?
Not all power washing services are equal. Some include prep work, detergents, and post-clean inspections, while others may only spray surfaces with water.
Clarify:
- What surfaces will be cleaned?
- Is detergent or a cleaning solution included?
- Do you rinse all areas after applying soap?
- Do you cover delicate surfaces or plants?
🧼 The more specific they are, the better. A professional company won’t be vague about what they offer.
🔧 3. Do You Use Soft Washing or Pressure Washing?
Different surfaces require different cleaning techniques. Vinyl siding, wood decks, and roofs often need soft washing — which uses lower pressure and special cleaners — to avoid damage.
Ask:
- What method do you use for siding, roofing, or decks?
- How do you adjust pressure for different materials?
💡 A knowledgeable contractor will tailor their approach based on the surface they’re cleaning — not use one setting for everything.
🕐 4. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience matters. While newer companies aren’t always bad, those with years under their belt tend to be more reliable and skilled.
Follow up with:
- How many homes do you service per week or month?
- Can you share some references or before-and-after photos?
📸 A seasoned pro should have a portfolio and satisfied clients to back up their claims.
🧾 5. Can You Provide a Written Estimate?
Verbal pricing is a red flag. Always get a written estimate that outlines:
- Services included
- Surface areas (with square footage if applicable)
- Type of cleaner used
- Timeline for completion
- Total cost with any taxes or fees
📄 Bonus: Ask if the estimate includes any guarantees or satisfaction policies.
💰 6. Do You Offer Any Guarantees or Warranties?
Reputable power washing companies stand behind their work.
Ask:
- What happens if I’m not satisfied?
- Will you come back to fix any missed spots or issues?
- Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?
✅ The best companies will fix any issues promptly — no attitude, no extra cost.
🚿 7. Where Will You Get Your Water?
This often-overlooked question can affect both your bill and your logistics.
Ask:
- Will you use my home’s water supply or bring your own tank?
- If using my supply, where do you need access?
💧 Clarifying this helps you prepare and ensures you’re not surprised by added water costs.
🪴 8. How Do You Protect Landscaping and Property?
High-pressure water and strong detergents can harm plants, outdoor furniture, or delicate fixtures.
Be sure to ask:
- How do you protect plants, pets, and landscaping?
- Do you tarp or rinse plants before and after washing?
- What precautions do you take for windows and fixtures?
A responsible company will take protection seriously — and have a process in place. 🪻🌿
📷 9. Can I See Photos of Your Work?
Don’t just take their word for it — ask to see before-and-after pictures of past jobs. These show real results and give you a preview of what to expect.
🚩 Be cautious if they say, “We don’t have any” or show only stock images.
⏳ 10. What Is Your Availability and Estimated Completion Time?
Scheduling matters — especially if you’re planning for a party, home sale, or painting project afterward.
Ask:
- When can you start?
- How long will the job take?
- Do you require someone to be home?
Punctuality and flexibility are signs of professionalism.
📞 Bonus: How’s Their Communication?
This isn’t a question you ask — it’s something you observe. 🚨
Pay attention to:
- How fast they respond to your inquiries
- Whether they answer the phone professionally
- If they follow up with confirmation or reminders
- Whether their quote matches what was discussed
A contractor who communicates clearly before the job is likely to do so throughout the job, too.
✅ Final Vetting Checklist
Before you hire, make sure the company:
✔️ Is licensed and insured
✔️ Provides written estimates
✔️ Has positive reviews or references
✔️ Offers guarantees or satisfaction policies
✔️ Communicates clearly and professionally
✔️ Answers your questions confidently
✔️ Knows when to use soft washing
✔️ Provides visual proof of their work
🏁 Final Thoughts
Asking the right questions doesn’t just help you avoid poor service — it helps you find a contractor you can trust. A professional power washing company will be happy to answer your concerns and walk you through their process.
Your home is your biggest investment — don’t hand it over to someone who can’t confidently explain how they’ll take care of it. 🏡💧
The answers you get will speak volumes. Ask smart, listen carefully, and your home will shine like new — safely and stress-free. ✨✅
