After having to correct work performed by "companies" and witnessing property damage repeatedly, I decided to write about a recurring problem we have noticed become more prominent as of late in our industry. With the current state of our economy, shopping on price has become more important. However, in the service industry it is almost always a bad decision to keep shopping until you are out of the realm of what is realistic for a legitimate, taxpaying, licensed and insured business to provide. Then, you run into problems with inexperience, cutting corners and even risking lawsuits by having unreputable persons working on your property. We have a photo album full of property damage that far exceeds the rate charged for the services rendered.
Questions to ask exterior cleaning contractors:
1. Do you have a license to work in my area?
2. Do you have liability insurance?
3. Do you have references? (The Better Business Bureau - BBB - and Angie's List are excellent resources for this.)
4. Ask them to explain their methodology. A professional should be more than happy to explain the benefits of using their services.
5. I would say to ask them how long they have been in business, but this is not always a good indicator of proper technique. (PPC has been in business for 5 years.)
If you are comfortable with the answers given for these few questions, then you can be confident you have done your research.
"The bitter taste of disappointment remains long after the sweetness of a low price is gone." - Unknown
Examples of poor workmanship:
- Etched glass
- Busted window seals
- Chemical damage to siding or shrubs
- High pressure damage to vinyl, wood, concrete or roof shingles
- Wand marks on vinyl, screens or bricks
"Remember: Buy cheap, buy twice." - Unknown
Is it worth the risk?
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