Why You Need a Pressure Washing Contract: Essential Tips for Protecting Your Business
Hey everyone, Mike here from All About Pressure Washing! Today, I'm tackling a frequently asked question: Do I need a pressure washing contract? Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned business owner, the answer is a resounding yes. A contract is essential for protecting both your business and your customers. Let’s dive into why it’s so important and how it can save you from potential headaches.
The Importance of a Contract
A contract is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a legally binding agreement that sets expectations for both parties. Here’s what a good contract does:
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Protects Your Business: Should anything go wrong, you’re covered. This includes property damage, unforeseen additional work, or misunderstandings about the scope of the job.
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Protects the Customer: Ensures their property is respected and cared for. It also sets clear expectations about what they need to do to prepare for your arrival.
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Clarifies Expectations: Both you and the customer know what’s expected, reducing the chance of disputes.
Why Most Customers Don’t Read Contracts
Here’s the reality: Most customers won’t read the contract. Even though they agree to the terms and conditions upon accepting your estimate, they rarely read the fine print. However, you still need to have it. If things go south – like bleach getting inside due to a bad window seal – the contract has you covered.
Preparing Your Customers
Since most customers won’t read the contract, it’s up to you to communicate the essentials:
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Preparation: Inform customers about what they need to do before your arrival, like moving items off the porch.
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Potential Issues: Make them aware of common issues, like ensuring windows and doors are sealed properly.
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Additional Charges: Explain any additional charges for tasks like moving furniture.
Effective Communication Strategies
To ensure your customers are prepared, use email automation to remind them about these key points. This can be done through:
- Text Messages
- Emails
- Phone Calls
Having written documentation can be useful if you need to reference it later.
Pre-Inspection Walkthrough
Before starting any job, conduct a pre-inspection walkthrough with the customer. Document any pre-existing damage and ensure the customer understands that these issues are not caused by your company. This is crucial for protecting yourself from liability.
My company uses a 28-point pre-inspection app designed specifically for the pressure washing industry. It allows us to take pictures, videos, and voice memos, which are then emailed to the customer before starting the job. This thorough documentation process ensures transparency and helps maintain a smooth operation.
Resources to Protect Your Business
To save you time and money, we offer a legally binding contract created by an attorney, along with a pre-inspection package that includes our app and email sequences. These resources are available on our resource page – check the link below.
Additional Learning Opportunity
If you’re serious about taking your pressure washing business to the next level, consider checking out the SESW Softwash 101 class. This class offers comprehensive training on soft washing techniques, chemicals, equipment, and more, providing you with the knowledge to succeed in the industry.
