Getting started in pressure washing
Steps to go from zero to your first paying pressure-washing client.
- 1
Choose your starting equipment tier
An entry-level gas pressure washer, surface cleaner, downstream injector, hoses, and safety gear can start around $700-2,000; a full commercial-grade rig with a 12V soft-wash system, water tank, and trailer/truck skid runs $3,000-10,000+ — start lean and upgrade once bookings justify it.
- 2
Get general liability insurance (and commercial auto if using a dedicated vehicle)
Budget roughly $500-1,500/yr for general liability, plus $1,200-3,000/yr for commercial auto if you're running a dedicated work truck or trailer — this covers accidental property damage and reassures clients before you're spraying chemicals near their home.
- 3
Learn soft washing before you touch siding or roofs
High pressure can strip paint, force water behind siding, or damage shingles — soft washing (low pressure + specialized chemicals) is the correct method for these surfaces and is worth learning or getting basic training on before offering it.
- 4
Set a per-square-foot rate and a minimum job fee
Price by surface type ($0.15-$0.80/sqft) or build simple flat packages (driveway, house wash, combo), and set a minimum job fee ($100-150) so small jobs stay worth the drive and setup time.
- 5
Create a simple service agreement
Cover scope by surface, cleaning method, pre-existing condition, landscaping protection, and weather-rescheduling policy before your first job.
- 6
Check local water-runoff and licensing rules
Some municipalities regulate where pressure-washing wastewater can drain (e.g. not directly into storm drains) and may require a general business license — requirements vary by location, so check before your first job.
- 7
List yourself locally and ask for reviews
A Google Business Profile, Nextdoor, and local Facebook community groups drive most early bookings; offering a seasonal or annual maintenance contract after a great first job builds repeat revenue fast.