How to Choose a Pressure Washing Company

Hiring a pressure washing company should be straightforward, but with so many options out there, how do you know who to trust with your home? Here's what to look for - and what to avoid - when choosing a pressure washing contractor.

1. Verify Insurance and Licensing

This is non-negotiable. Any legitimate pressure washing company should carry:

• General liability insurance - Protects your property if something gets damaged
• Workers' compensation - Protects you if a worker is injured on your property
• Business license - Shows they're operating legally

Don't just take their word for it. Ask to see a certificate of insurance (COI) and verify it's current. If a company hesitates or can't provide proof, that's a major red flag.

2. Look for Experience and Specialization

Pressure washing might seem simple, but there's a lot that can go wrong. Different surfaces require different pressures, techniques, and cleaning solutions. A company with experience will know:

• When to use soft wash vs. high pressure
• Which chemicals are safe for different materials
• How to protect your landscaping
• How to handle specific stains (rust, oil, algae)

Ask how long they've been in business and whether they specialize in residential or commercial work. Someone who's been doing this for years will have encountered (and solved) problems that newer companies haven't.

3. Read Reviews - But Read Them Right

Online reviews are valuable, but know how to interpret them:

• Look for patterns - One bad review isn't necessarily a dealbreaker, but multiple complaints about the same issue (lateness, damage, poor communication) is telling
• Check multiple platforms - Google, Facebook, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau all provide different perspectives
• Read how they respond - A company that professionally addresses complaints shows they care about customer satisfaction
• Be wary of perfect 5-star ratings - A mix of ratings is more authentic than suspiciously perfect scores

4. Get Multiple Quotes (But Don't Just Choose the Cheapest)

Getting 2-3 quotes helps you understand fair pricing for your area. But here's the thing: the cheapest quote isn't always the best value.

Very low prices often mean:

• No insurance (you're taking on the liability)
• Inexperienced workers
• Inferior equipment or chemicals
• Hidden fees that appear later

A professional company with proper insurance, good equipment, and trained staff has real costs. If someone's price is dramatically lower than competitors, ask yourself why.

5. Ask About Their Process

A professional should be able to clearly explain:

• What cleaning method they'll use on each surface
• What chemicals (if any) they'll apply
• How they'll protect your plants and landscaping
• How long the job will take
• What results you can realistically expect

If they can't answer these questions confidently, or if the answers seem vague, that's a concern.

6. Look for Clear Communication

How a company communicates before the job often indicates how they'll perform during and after. Good signs include:

• Quick response to inquiries
• Clear, written quotes
• Willingness to answer questions
• Professional demeanor

If it's hard to get a response before they have your money, imagine trying to resolve an issue afterward.

7. Ask About Guarantees

Reputable companies stand behind their work. Ask:

• What happens if you're not satisfied with the results?
• Will they come back to address missed spots?
• Is there a warranty on the cleaning?

A company confident in their work will have no problem offering a satisfaction guarantee.

Red Flags to Watch For

Avoid companies that:

• Demand full payment upfront - A deposit is reasonable; full payment before work isn't
• Only accept cash - Could indicate they're not properly licensed
• Can't provide references - Established companies have happy customers willing to vouch for them
• Push high-pressure sales tactics - "Sign today or lose this price" is never a good sign
• Have no online presence - In 2026, legitimate businesses have websites and reviews
• Won't put the quote in writing - Verbal agreements leave room for disputes

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Before you commit, ask:

1. Are you licensed and insured? Can I see proof?
2. How long have you been in business?
3. What method will you use on my [roof/siding/driveway]?
4. Do you guarantee your work?
5. Can you provide references from recent jobs?
6. What's your payment policy?
7. How do you protect landscaping and outdoor furniture?

The Bottom Line

Choosing a pressure washing company comes down to trust. You're trusting them with your property, your time, and your money. Take the time to verify credentials, read reviews, and ask questions. The few extra minutes spent vetting contractors can save you from headaches, damage, and wasted money.

A good pressure washing company will make the process easy, deliver excellent results, and leave you happy you hired them. That's exactly what we strive for at Sam's Softwash.