A quick search for “driveway cleaning Yorkshire” returns dozens of results — from sole traders with a consumer pressure washer to established professional companies with proper training and insurance. The price difference can be significant, but so can the quality difference. Here are the 8 questions you should ask before hiring anyone to clean your property.
1. Are They Fully Insured?
This is non-negotiable. Any reputable exterior cleaning company should carry at least £2m public liability insurance — and ideally £5m. Ask to see the certificate before work begins. If a company can't produce proof of insurance, walk away. Exterior cleaning involves working at height, using high-pressure equipment, and applying chemical treatments — all of which carry risk if something goes wrong.
2. Are They IPPTS or CHAS Accredited?
IPPTS (Institute of Professional Pressure Washing and Soft Washing) and CHAS accreditation demonstrate that a company meets professional standards for training, equipment, and safety. These aren't just badges — they require ongoing compliance and regular audits. Aqua-Blasters holds both accreditations, which you can verify on our certifications page.
3. Do They Use the Right Method for Your Surface?
Different surfaces require different cleaning methods. Render should never be pressure washed at high pressure — it requires soft washing. Natural stone requires pH-neutral cleaners. Resin bound driveways need carefully controlled pressure. A good company will assess your surfaces before quoting and explain exactly what method they'll use and why.
4. Do They Offer Biocide Treatments?
Cleaning without biocide treatment is a short-term fix. Moss, algae, and lichen will return within 12–18 months without a follow-up biocide application. Any company that doesn't offer or recommend biocide treatment after cleaning is either cutting corners or doesn't understand the science. Ask specifically whether biocide treatment is included or available as an add-on.
5. Can They Show You Before & After Photos?
A reputable company should have a portfolio of before and after photos demonstrating the quality of their work. Check their website, Google Business profile, and social media. If they can't show you examples of their work, that's a red flag. Our gallery shows hundreds of real before and after photos from jobs across Yorkshire.
6. What Do Their Reviews Say?
Google and Facebook reviews are your best guide to a company's reliability and quality. Look for companies with a large number of reviews (not just a handful) and read the detail — not just the star rating. Pay attention to how the company responds to any negative reviews. Aqua-Blasters has 117 verified five-star reviews across Google and Facebook.
7. Do They Provide a Written Quote?
Always get a written quote before work begins. This should specify exactly what work will be carried out, what products will be used, and the total price including VAT. Verbal quotes are worthless if there's a dispute later. Be wary of companies that quote very low prices without seeing the job — they often add charges on the day.
8. Are They Local?
A locally based company has a reputation to protect in your community. They're more likely to turn up on time, do a good job, and be available for follow-up if needed. National franchises and online booking platforms often subcontract to whoever is cheapest — with no accountability for quality. Aqua-Blasters is based in Yorkshire and covers the local area exclusively.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Why Choose Aqua-Blasters?
Aqua-Blasters ticks every box on this list. We're IPPTS-certified, CHAS accredited, and carry £5m public liability insurance. We have 117 verified five-star reviews on Google and Facebook. We provide written quotes, use the correct method for every surface, and always recommend biocide treatment where appropriate.
We cover a wide area across Yorkshire — from Wetherby and Harrogate to Wakefield and Selby. Our services include driveway cleaning, patio restoration, roof cleaning, render cleaning, and UPVC cleaning.
You can verify our accreditations on our certifications page, read our reviews on Google and Facebook, and see our work in our before and after gallery.
Get a Quote from Yorkshire's Trusted Exterior Cleaning Specialists
Free, no-obligation quotes across Yorkshire — fully insured, IPPTS certified, 117 five-star reviews