3 Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring a Commercial Pressure Washer

Finding a reliable commercial pressure washer in the Atlanta area isn’t always easy. Property managers have a long list of responsibilities, and the last thing you need is a contractor who leaves streaks, damage, or a mess behind. While pressure washing seems straightforward, hiring the wrong team can lead to costly setbacks, property damage, or incomplete work.

Before you commit to a cleaning company, there are key warning signs worth spotting. If a pressure washing provider lacks certain basics, it’s a signal to keep looking.

This guide breaks down the three biggest red flags to watch for before hiring a commercial pressure washer, and what to do instead.

Red Flag #1: No Licensing or Insurance

Working with an uninsured or unlicensed contractor is a risk. On paper, they might promise a good rate. But without proper credentials, they could leave you responsible for costly repairs or legal issues.

Why insurance and licensing matter

Every professional commercial pressure washer should carry liability insurance and show proof when asked. If someone damages your property or gets injured on-site, you could be held responsible if they aren’t covered.

This happens more often than you think. Uninsured pressure washing crews may be fine with basic tasks, but accidents happen. A broken window or damaged surface can quickly turn into a legal and financial headache.

Licensing shows that a contractor meets the state and local requirements to operate a legitimate business. It also tells you they’ve taken the time to follow proper guidelines for equipment use and chemical handling, especially important when cleaning commercial buildings with sensitive materials.

How to verify credentials

Always ask for proof of insurance and licenses before hiring. Look for expiration dates and ask who the policy is through. If something feels off or they hesitate to share documentation, that’s a red flag.

A reputable commercial pressure washer will never dodge questions about coverage or licensing. This upfront step protects your building, your tenants, and your peace of mind.

Red Flag #2: Outdated or Inadequate Equipment

Not all pressure washers are equal. Some are designed for light residential use, while others are built for large-scale commercial jobs. If a contractor shows up with the wrong tools, or worse, equipment that looks like it’s on its last leg; you might be headed for poor results.

Signs the equipment isn’t up to the job

Professional-grade equipment is designed to clean large surfaces efficiently, adjust pressure levels properly, and reduce risk to the building. If the equipment is underpowered, it won’t clean effectively. If it’s overpowered or outdated, it could damage your surfaces.

You may also notice signs like:

• Visible wear and rust on the machines
• Excessive noise during use
• No specialized nozzles or attachments for different materials
• No water recovery system (important for environmental and safety reasons)

These aren’t just minor details. They affect both the quality and safety of the work.

The impact on your property

An experienced commercial pressure washer will arrive with clean, well-maintained gear suited for the job. That includes the right pressure settings for brick, concrete, siding, and other materials on your property.

Poor equipment leads to uneven results, surface damage, and wasted time. Worse, it might require follow-up cleanings, costing you more in the long run.

If the tools don’t look professional, it’s usually a sign that the service won’t be either.

Red Flag #3: A Spotty Reputation

In commercial services, reputation is everything. If a pressure washing company has bad reviews, limited online presence, or inconsistent communication, it’s a sign they may not take customer service seriously.

How to research a contractor’s reputation

Start by checking multiple review platforms, Google, Yelp, and industry-specific sites. Look for consistent patterns in what customers say. Are there repeated complaints about being late? Incomplete jobs? Poor cleanup?

A strong commercial pressure washer will have verified reviews from property managers, building owners, or facilities teams. These carry more weight than basic residential feedback.

Also, look at how the company responds to criticism. A good business will reply to negative reviews with professionalism and a willingness to fix issues. No response at all can be just as telling.

Why a track record matters

Commercial buildings require a level of care that goes beyond curb appeal. You need results you can count on, especially for repeat service. A company with a proven track record gives you confidence they’ll show up, do the job right, and treat your property with respect.

Too many negative reviews? Hard to find any reviews at all? It’s probably best to keep searching.

Choosing the Right Commercial Pressure Washer

Knowing what to avoid is the first step. Knowing what to look for is just as important. A great commercial pressure washer will offer more than a quick wash, they’ll understand the full scope of your property needs and communicate clearly from the start.

Ask the right questions

• Do they have commercial experience, not just residential?
• Can they show recent examples of similar jobs?
• Do they offer a clear breakdown of services and pricing?
• Will they walk your property before quoting?

These questions give you insight into how seriously they take your business. A solid contractor won’t just say “yes” to everything; they’ll ask smart questions, too.

Demand clarity up front

Vague quotes or rushed walkthroughs are a warning sign. Reputable contractors offer written estimates with full details, including:

• What surfaces will be cleaned
• What cleaning agents will be used
• How long the job will take
• What the total cost includes

This protects you from surprise charges and sets expectations on both sides. If something doesn’t seem clear, don’t be afraid to ask. A trustworthy commercial pressure washer will take the time to explain everything.

Final Thoughts

Hiring the right commercial pressure washer can make a big difference in how your building looks, how well it’s maintained, and how much you spend on repairs down the line.

Avoiding unlicensed contractors, underpowered equipment, and poor reputations is key. The risks aren’t worth it. With a little research and the right questions, you can partner with a provider who delivers real value and reliable service.

Sun Brite Services has helped businesses across the Atlanta metro area keep their properties clean, professional, and safe with expert pressure washing and building cleaning services.

Contact our team today to schedule your next commercial cleaning project.

FAQs

What does a commercial pressure washer do?

A commercial pressure washer removes dirt, mold, grease, and stains from large exterior surfaces like buildings, sidewalks, loading docks, and parking garages.

How often should I hire a commercial pressure washer?

Most commercial properties benefit from pressure washing at least once or twice a year, depending on foot traffic, weather exposure, and building materials.

What should I look for when hiring a commercial pressure washer?

Look for proper licensing, insurance, commercial-grade equipment, and a strong history of positive reviews from other commercial clients.

Can pressure washing damage my building?

If done incorrectly or with the wrong equipment, yes. That’s why it’s important to hire a professional commercial pressure washer with experience on the materials your property uses.

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