(1)  Always verify workers' compensation and liability insurance before contracting with a pressure washing company whose workers will likely be working at dangerous heights and positions on or around your home.

(2)  For traditionally seasonal businesses such as pressure washing, consider scheduling your services anytime but the busiest times of year to receive special pricing when the company personnel capacity is not maxed out.

(3)  Stick with a reputable company and build a relationship over the course of time, thus allowing you to receive periodic preferential treatment with any special requests, scheduling, etc.

(4)  Ask the contractor for references from customers who have had work performed similar to yours.

(5)  Use a well-known and reputable company that you can always find in the future or be able to easily contact for any reason.  Check out to see how long the company has been in the area.

(6)  Avoid contractors that do not contact you within 24 to 48 hours of your original contact with their staff.

(7)  Communication is key to success on any contracting project, and the more examples of previous jobs a contractor can relate to your job, the better indicator of quality of that contractor.

(8)  It is very important for the contractor to be attentive to your specific needs.  The contractor should show enthusiasm for your project by suggesting ways to work within a budget and addressing specific concerns you may have.

(9)  Get all guarantees, warranties and promises in writing.

(10)  Be sure that quotes are inclusive of the total project costs.  Some companies may provide quotes that do not include aspects that are required in order to complete the project.

(11)  Do not help contractors or their workers and do not lend them your tools.  If a worker is hurt while you are assisting (e.g., holding a ladder) or is hurt using one of your tools, you may be liable via a tort claim by the worker or contractor.