The Hidden Risks of Hiring Power washing “Contractors” in Northwest Ohio
Power washing looks simple. A hose, some pressure, and a few hours later your home, business, or camper looks brand new. Because of that, many property owners turn to inexpensive “contractors” they find online or through word-of-mouth.
Here in Northwest Ohio, especially in towns like Archbold, Napoleon, Holgate, Whitehouse—and throughout the surrounding communities—summer brings a wave of people offering power washing services. Many are local students or young entrepreneurs looking to make extra money.
There’s nothing wrong with that hustle. In fact, it’s great to see.
But from an insurance and risk standpoint, it’s important to understand what you’re really hiring.
What seems like a low-cost service can quickly turn into a very expensive problem if something goes wrong.
Not All “Contractors” Are Actually Insured
One of the biggest misconceptions is that anyone offering a service is properly insured. In reality, many power washing operators carry no liability insurance, have inadequate coverage limits, let policies lapse or cancel for nonpayment, or operate under someone else’s insurance—which often doesn’t apply.
This is especially common with informal or seasonal operations. If damage occurs and there’s no valid coverage, the financial responsibility can fall back on the property owner.
The Damage Potential Is Real
Power washing isn’t harmless—it’s controlled force. In the wrong hands, it can cause serious damage. Siding can be stripped or cracked, including vinyl, wood, and fiber cement. Water can be forced behind siding, leading to mold and rot. Roofs—especially shingles—can be damaged. Concrete and brick can be etched or pitted. Window seals can fail or glass can break. Water can also create electrical hazards if it reaches fixtures improperly.
Campers and RVs are especially vulnerable. High pressure can compromise seals, force water into seams, and strip decals or finishes. In many cases, that damage isn’t immediately visible and shows up later as leaks or interior issues.
An inexperienced operator—even with the best intentions—can cause thousands (or tens of thousands) of dollars in damage in a matter of minutes.
Your Insurance May Not Cover It
Many homeowners assume, “If something goes wrong, my insurance will take care of it.” That’s not always the case.
Depending on the situation, your homeowners or recreational vehicle policy may deny coverage if the damage is considered preventable or tied to poor contractor selection. Filing a claim can still impact your claims history and future premiums. Even if your insurer does pay, they may pursue subrogation against the contractor—which often goes nowhere if that contractor isn’t properly insured.
In short, you could be left with the bill—even if you didn’t directly cause the damage.
“Cheap” Often Becomes Expensive
There’s a reason some power washing quotes come in significantly lower than others. Those savings often come from cutting corners, whether that’s no insurance, no formal business structure, limited experience, or lack of equipment training.
That friendly neighborhood rate—or the summer side hustle—might save a few hundred dollars upfront, but it can expose you to thousands in uninsured risk.
How to Protect Yourself
Before hiring a power washing contractor, there are a few simple but critical steps to take. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and make sure it shows active general liability coverage, ideally verified with the issuing agent. Check coverage limits, as water and structural damage claims can escalate quickly. Ask about experience, including whether they’ve worked on surfaces like siding, roofs, or campers. Get a written agreement that defines the scope of work and responsibility for damage. And finally, be cautious with pricing that feels too low—if it seems too good to be true, it usually is.
Final Thought
At Frost Insurance, we see firsthand how often small decisions turn into large, unexpected claims.
There’s nothing wrong with someone trying to earn money and build a business—especially during the summer. But when it comes to your home, business, or camper, good intentions don’t replace proper coverage and experience.
Power washing may look simple, but the risk is real. Hiring the right contractor isn’t just about results—it’s about protecting what you’ve worked hard to build.