C & D Pressure Washing: What to Know Before You Hire

C & D Pressure Washing is a South Carolina-based cleaning contractor serving residential and commercial properties

C & D Pressure Washing operates in South Carolina, offering pressure washing services for homes, driveways, decks, and commercial buildings. Like any contractor you bring onto your property, it helps to know what questions to ask before booking, what the work typically costs, and how to protect yourself in the contract.

This guide walks you through what to expect when hiring a pressure washing company, how to vet contractors in your area, and what details matter most when comparing quotes.

Key Takeaways

• Pressure washing contractors should carry liability insurance and be willing to show proof before starting work on your property.
• Get written quotes from at least two contractors that specify the square footage, surfaces to be cleaned, and price per job—not hourly rates that can shift.
• Ask whether the contractor will use hot or cold water, what cleaning solutions they apply, and whether they'll protect nearby plants and landscaping.
• Check online reviews and ask for references from recent jobs in your neighborhood to see how contractors handle disputes and cleanup.
• A signed contract should list what surfaces will be cleaned, the total price, the start date, and what happens if weather delays the work.

What pressure washing contractors typically charge

Pressure washing costs vary widely depending on the size of the area, the surface type, and how dirty it is. A driveway might run $150 to $400, while a full house exterior can be $300 to $800 or more. Commercial properties often cost more because the work takes longer and may require specialized equipment.

When you get a quote, make sure it covers the specific square footage and surfaces involved—not just an hourly rate. A contractor who quotes by the hour can stretch the job, while a fixed price per job gives you certainty. Ask whether the quote includes cleanup of debris and whether they'll move outdoor furniture or protect plants.

Questions to ask before you hire

Before signing anything, confirm that the contractor carries liability insurance. If their equipment damages your roof, fence, or car, their insurance should cover it—not yours. Ask to see a current certificate of insurance with your property listed as an additional insured party.

Find out what cleaning method they use. Hot water pressure washing works better on grease and mold, while cold water is safer for delicate surfaces like wood and vinyl siding. Ask what cleaning solutions they use and whether they're safe around pets and gardens. Some contractors use eco-friendly soaps; others use stronger chemicals that need time to break down.

Ask how long the job typically takes and whether weather can delay it. If rain is forecast, will they reschedule? What happens to your deposit if the job gets pushed? A reputable contractor will have clear answers to all of these.

How to check a contractor's track record

Search online for reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. Look for patterns—one bad review might be an outlier, but multiple complaints about the same issue (damage to property, no-shows, overcharging) are red flags. Pay attention to how the contractor responds to negative reviews; a professional will address concerns directly.

Ask the contractor for references from jobs they've done in your neighborhood within the last year. Call at least two and ask whether the work was completed on time, whether the contractor cleaned up afterward, and whether any problems came up after the job was done. A contractor confident in their work will have no trouble providing names.

What should be in your contract

A written contract protects both you and the contractor. It should list the exact surfaces to be cleaned (driveway, house siding, deck, etc.), the total price, and the date the work will start. Include what happens if weather delays the job—will they come back the next available day, or do you have to reschedule?

The contract should also specify what the contractor will and won't do. Will they move planters and outdoor furniture, or is that your job? Will they protect air conditioning units and outdoor outlets? Will they pressure wash under eaves where wasps might nest? The more specific the contract, the fewer surprises you'll have.

Ask about the payment schedule. Many contractors ask for a deposit upfront—typically 25 to 50 percent—with the balance due when the work is finished. Never pay the full amount before the job is done. If the contractor asks for cash only, that's a sign to look elsewhere.

Red flags to watch for

Be cautious of contractors who show up without an appointment, offer a deal that's far below other quotes, or pressure you to decide on the spot. Legitimate contractors schedule jobs in advance and give you time to think.

If a contractor refuses to provide insurance information, references, or a written quote, move on. These are basic professional standards. Similarly, if they won't discuss what cleaning solutions they use or how they'll protect your landscaping, they may not be thinking carefully about the work.

Avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront or who only accept cash. Both are common tactics used by fly-by-night operations that disappear if something goes wrong.

What to do if something goes wrong

If the contractor damages your property during the job, document it with photos and written notes about what happened. Contact the contractor immediately and ask them to file a claim with their insurance company. Keep copies of all communications—texts, emails, and notes from phone calls.

If the contractor doesn't show up or abandons the job, contact your state's consumer protection office or the Better Business Bureau. South Carolina's Department of Consumer Affairs handles complaints about contractors. Having a written contract makes it much easier to pursue a claim if you need to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can pressure washing damage my house or driveway?

Yes, if done incorrectly. High pressure can strip paint, crack wood, or damage vinyl siding. A may have access to contractor knows the right pressure setting for each surface—typically lower for delicate materials like wood and higher for concrete. This is why asking about their method and experience matters before you hire.

How often should I have my driveway or house pressure washed?

It depends on your climate and how dirty the surface gets. In humid areas like South Carolina, mold and algae grow faster, so homeowners often pressure wash annually or every other year. Commercial properties in high-traffic areas may need it more often. Your contractor can recommend a schedule based on what they see.

Will pressure washing kill the plants in my landscaping?

Strong pressure and certain cleaning chemicals can damage plants. Before hiring, ask the contractor how they'll protect your garden beds, shrubs, and trees. Many will cover plants with tarps or use lower pressure near landscaping. If you have delicate plants, mention that upfront so they can plan accordingly.

What's the difference between pressure washing and soft washing?

Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to blast away dirt and grime, while soft washing uses lower pressure and specialized cleaning solutions to break down buildup without force. Soft washing is gentler on delicate surfaces like wood and vinyl but takes longer. Ask which method the contractor recommends for your specific surfaces.

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

It's a good idea to be present or have someone there to answer questions and make sure the work matches what you agreed to. At minimum, do a walkthrough with the contractor before they start to point out any areas of concern, and inspect the finished work before they leave.