You do not need to be home when your house is being pressure washed. Exterior house washing only requires access to the outside of the property, not interior access. As long as you have confirmed the appointment, ensured the exterior is accessible, closed all windows and doors, and secured pets indoors, the crew can complete the work without you present.
What needs to happen before you leave
A few simple steps before you leave for work or an errand ensure the job goes smoothly.
Close all windows and doors: This is the most important step. Even soft washing at low pressure can introduce mist into openings if windows or doors are left ajar. Verify this throughout the house, including basement windows, garage side doors, and any windows that may not be immediately visible.
Secure all outdoor furniture and decorations: Move lightweight items like cushions, potted plants in lightweight containers, and outdoor rugs off the areas being washed. Heavy furniture can usually stay, but the crew will work around it. Lighter items can be displaced by the water stream.
Bring pets inside: Dogs and cats should be kept indoors during washing. The cleaning solution and water pressure are disorienting for animals, and the noise of the equipment is significant.
Mark any fragile items: If there is a specific area of the exterior that has a fragile fixture, an older weather vane, a decorative element that could be moved or damaged, let the company know in advance.
Confirm water access: Most professional pressure washing companies carry their own water supply or use a property spigot. Confirm whether the crew needs access to an outdoor hose bib and make sure it is functional before you leave.
What the crew handles without you
A professional crew can perform the entire job without homeowner supervision: assessing the surfaces, applying pre-treatment chemistry, washing, and rinsing. They do not need to enter the home. If anything unexpected comes up during the job, a professional company will document it and communicate with you afterward.
When being home might be useful
Being home is not required, but it is useful in a few situations:
- First-time service with a new company: Being home for the initial job lets you meet the crew, confirm the scope, and ask any questions.
- Jobs with specific problem areas: If you have a stain or area of concern you want the crew to pay particular attention to, being there to point it out is more reliable than a phone description.
- Large or complex properties: Multi-building properties or homes with unusual access situations sometimes benefit from a walkthrough with the owner before the crew begins.
Confirming the job is complete when you return
When you return after a professional exterior wash, a quick walkthrough is worthwhile. Look for:
- Clean siding with no missed sections.
- All furniture and items back where they were or accounted for.
- No pooling water or chemistry residue on plantings.
- No visible damage to windows, siding seams, or trim.
Most professional companies will provide a completion confirmation. If you have concerns after the job, contact the company while the details are fresh.
CARE's scheduling process for Fort Worth homeowners
CARE serves Fort Worth and 20 surrounding cities. Owner Stephen McPherson is on-site at every job. You do not need to be home, but we confirm all job details in advance to make sure access and conditions are set for a clean result. Call (945) 275-8031 or visit our house washing page to schedule service.