Before You Hire a Power Washer

Power washing has a low barrier to entry. A rented machine and a Saturday are most of what you need to start. That doesn't make it a craft — and it's why most homeowners get burned at least once.

Ask these

1. Are you insured? With what?

$2M general liability is the floor. Workers' comp matters too — if a guy gets hurt on your property and the contractor isn't covered, you might be.

2. Soft wash or pressure?

The right answer depends on the surface. The wrong answer is "we just crank it up."

3. Do you protect landscaping?

Pre-wetting plants and rinsing afterward should be standard. If they don't mention it, they don't do it.

4. How long have you been doing this?

Not a deal-breaker, but it sets expectations.

5. Can I see recent work in my town?

Real contractors have it. Show me the gallery.

That's it. Five questions. Most of them will not pass.