5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Fence Cleaner Near Me

Richard Reynolds • September 13, 2025

Your fence plays a crucial role in your home’s curb appeal, privacy, and overall value. Over time, fences can collect dirt, algae, mold, and mildew—making them look worn and neglected. That’s why many homeowners search for a fence cleaner near me to restore their fence’s beauty. But before you hire the first company you find online, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you’re getting professional, reliable service.

In this article, we’ll cover five essential questions to ask before hiring a fence cleaning company. By the end, you’ll be prepared to choose a trustworthy professional who can deliver great results.

1. What Cleaning Methods Do You Use?

Not all fences are made the same, and the cleaning method should match the fence’s material. For example:

Wood fences require a gentle wash to avoid splintering or stripping the wood.
Vinyl fences often benefit from soft washing that removes dirt and algae without high pressure.
Metal fences may need a mix of pressure washing and rust removal treatments.

Ask the company:

Do they use pressure washing or soft washing?
How do they prevent damage to delicate surfaces?
What cleaning solutions or chemicals do they use—and are they eco-friendly?

A professional company should be able to explain why their method is right for your specific type of fence. According to the Power Washers of North America (PWNA), using the wrong pressure or chemicals can permanently damage surfaces.

2. Are You Licensed and Insured?

When you hire someone to work on your property, you want peace of mind knowing they’re covered. Accidents can happen during fence cleaning—such as water damage, chemical spills, or even personal injury.

Be sure to ask:

Do you have general liability insurance?
Are your technicians covered by workers’ compensation?
Do you hold any state or local licenses for pressure washing?

A reputable fence cleaner should readily provide proof of insurance. This protects both you and the workers in case something goes wrong. According to Better Business Bureau (BBB), verifying licenses and insurance is one of the top ways to avoid contractor scams.

3. Can You Provide References or Before-and-After Photos?

The best way to judge a company’s quality is by looking at their past work. Before-and-after photos show the results you can expect, while references let you hear directly from other customers.

Questions to ask:

Do you have a portfolio of completed jobs?
Can I speak with past clients in my area?
Are there online reviews I can read?

Check platforms like Google Reviews or Yelp to see what past customers say. A trustworthy company will be proud to showcase their results.

4. What’s Included in Your Service (and What’s Extra)?

Some companies advertise low prices but then tack on hidden fees. Before hiring, make sure you understand exactly what’s included in the quote.

Things to clarify:

Does the price include cleaning both sides of the fence?
Are stain or sealant applications included or extra?
Do they handle minor repairs (like replacing boards or tightening screws)?
Is travel time or setup included in the cost?

Request a detailed written estimate so you know exactly what you’re paying for. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of fence cleaning ranges from $150 to $300 depending on the size and material of the fence—but extras like sealing can raise the price significantly.

5. Do You Offer Maintenance Plans or Warranties?

Cleaning your fence once is helpful, but long-term maintenance keeps it looking great year after year. Many professional companies offer service plans or warranties that protect your investment.

Questions to ask:

Do you offer annual or seasonal cleaning packages?
Is there a warranty on your work?
What happens if I notice algae or mildew returning within a few weeks?

A company that offers a satisfaction guarantee or warranty shows confidence in their service. For example, the International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA) recommends choosing contractors who stand behind their work—it’s a sign of professionalism and accountability.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a fence cleaner near you is an investment in your home’s beauty and longevity. By asking these five key questions, you’ll be better equipped to choose a professional who: