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Do I need to be home while the cleaning is being done?

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 outdoor water connections, the cleaning can be completed without the homeowner being present. Many customers actually prefer to schedule exterior cleaning while they are at work or running errands since power washing is entirely an outdoor service.

However, there are a few important exceptions and preparation steps to keep in mind.


⭐ 1. When You Don’t Need to Be Home

For the majority of residential and commercial services, contractors can work independently as long as:

  • Gates are unlocked
  • Vehicles are moved if they block access
  • Pets are secured inside
  • The water spigot is turned on
  • Any special instructions are communicated beforehand

Professionals found in the PowerWashing.com Directory follow clear arrival procedures and provide updates before and after the job, making the process seamless.


⭐ 2. Situations Where Being Home May Be Helpful

While not mandatory, your presence may be preferred if:

There are fragile outdoor items

Outdoor décor, patio furniture, planters, or electronics may need to be moved or covered.

You need to review stains or concerns in person

For example:

  • Rust marks
  • Oil stains
  • Oxidation
  • Gutter tiger striping
  • Test spots

Some homeowners like to point out problem areas before the wash begins.

You’re receiving multiple services or bundled work

Roof + house + driveway packages sometimes require walkthroughs at the beginning or end.

You prefer to do a final inspection

Contractors are always happy to walk the property and answer questions.


⭐ 3. When You Absolutely Do Not Need to Be Home

A professional does not require the homeowner’s presence when:

  • All work is exterior
  • Payment is handled online
  • Access is pre-arranged
  • No interior entry is needed

This includes:

  • House washing
  • Driveway cleaning
  • Roof soft washing
  • Gutter exterior brightening
  • Patio and pool deck cleaning
  • Fence and wall washing

Most companies today embrace digital communication and photo/video documentation — something contractors connected through PowerWashing.com are trained to provide.


⭐ 4. What You Should Do Before Leaving the House

Even if you won't be home, a few quick steps help ensure a smooth cleaning:

  • Close windows and doors
  • Move vehicles and fragile items
  • Turn off outdoor electronics
  • Unlock gates
  • Ensure pets are indoors
  • Provide instructions for areas of concern

These small actions help prevent issues and allow the contractor to complete the job efficiently.


⭐ 5. Final Takeaway

You can confidently schedule a power washing service without needing to be home. Professionals work independently, protect your property, and provide updates before and after the job.

If you're using the PowerWashing.com Contractor Directory, you can connect with vetted pros who are trained to deliver reliable, no-hassle service — whether you’re home or not.