← Back to FAQs

Do I need to be home when my property is being power washed?

In most cases, you do NOT need to be home during a professional power washing service. As long as the contractor has access to the necessary areas and exterior water sources (if needed), the entire job can be completed without anyone being present. This is one of the reasons many homeowners and businesses prefer to book through trusted professionals—such as those listed in the PowerWashing.com Directory—because they follow proper safety, communication, and documentation practices.

Here’s how it works and what you should expect.


⭐ 1. When You Do NOT Need to Be Home

For standard exterior cleaning, you can be away during the service. This includes:

  • House washing
  • Roof soft washing
  • Driveway & sidewalk cleaning
  • Gutter cleaning
  • Window exterior cleaning
  • Pool deck or patio washing
  • Fence or wall cleaning

As long as the exterior is fully accessible, professional contractors can complete all work independently.


⭐ 2. What Contractors Need Access To

Even if you’re not home, make sure the crew can access essential areas:

✔ Water spigots (unless they use a tanked system)

Some contractors use large buffer tanks and may not need your water at all.

✔ Backyard / side yard gates

Many projects require full perimeter access.

✔ Driveways & walkways

Move vehicles to allow cleaning.

✔ Pets safely indoors

Prevents distraction and keeps animals safe from chemicals or noise.

Professional teams typically send a pre-visit checklist—something many contractors sourced through PowerWashing.com provide automatically.


⭐ 3. When You Should Be Home

While it’s not required, there are circumstances where being home is helpful:

✔ First-time service with a new contractor

Allows you to ask questions and ensure expectations are aligned.

✔ Projects involving fragile landscaping or sensitive areas

You can point out anything that requires extra care.

✔ Interior window cleaning (if offered)

Requires indoor access.

✔ When power outlets, pumps, or breakers need inspection

Rare, but occasionally helpful for older homes.

✔ Post-clean walkthroughs

Some contractors prefer to review the finished work with you.


⭐ 4. What Happens When You’re Not Home?

Most reputable contractors follow a predictable workflow:

  1. Arrival notification (text or email)
  2. Pre-wash inspection, noting any visible concerns
  3. Completion of all exterior cleaning
  4. After-service rinse and safety check
  5. Final documentation, which may include:
     
    • Before-and-after photos
  6.  
    • Notes on surface conditions
  7.  
    • Recommendations for future maintenance
  8.  

The photo documentation step is standard among professionals who train through PowerWashing.com or follow its best practices.


⭐ 5. Are There Safety or Security Concerns?

Professional power washing companies are accustomed to working while clients are away.

To ensure peace of mind:

  • Most contractors are licensed and insured
  • Their trucks and uniforms are branded
  • They provide digital estimates and invoices
  • Job documentation is available on request
  • They respect property boundaries and secure gates after service

Homeowners hiring through the PowerWashing.com Directory can verify credentials easily before scheduling.


⭐ 6. Final Takeaway

No—you generally do not need to be home during your power washing service. As long as the contractor has access and clear instructions, they can complete the job safely and efficiently. Whether you’re at work, running errands, or simply prefer not to be present, professionals ensure your property is cleaned to the highest standard.