Things to know
Different surfaces need different pressure, technique, and sometimes chemical treatment. A wooden deck cleaned at the same pressure as a concrete driveway will be damaged, not cleaned. Price each surface type as its own line, not a flat "pressure washing" rate, so a customer with a mix of patio, driveway, and decking sees that the approach, and cost, genuinely differs by surface.
A protective sealant applied after cleaning meaningfully extends how long a surface stays clean, particularly on driveways and patios exposed to weather. Offer it as a clearly separate, optional line instead of bundling it into the wash. Customers who decline it should pay less, and those who take it should understand exactly what they're getting for the extra cost.
Where chemical treatments are used, wastewater and runoff need proper consideration, particularly near drains that lead to surface water systems instead of foul sewer. This is a genuine environmental compliance point worth mentioning on the quote. It signals professionalism and protects you if runoff into the wrong drain is ever questioned.
Like most exterior work, pressure washing is weather-dependent. Heavy rain shortly after a treatment can undo a sealant application before it's cured. A brief note that scheduled dates may shift for weather protects you without making the quote look uncommitted. It's a standard enough caveat that customers rarely push back on it.
Typical pressure washing line items and UK prices
Indicative ranges, excluding VAT. Rates vary by region (London and the South East run higher) and by job size.
| Item | Unit | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Block paving driveway clean | per m² | £3–£6 |
| Re-sand block paving (kiln-dried sand) | per m² | £2–£4 |
| Sealant application (block paving) | per m² | £4–£8 |
| Patio clean (stone/porcelain) | per m² | £3–£6 |
| Soft wash render | per m² | £6–£12 |
| Decking clean + treat | per m² | £6–£12 |
| Minimum charge | per job | £80–£150 |
Common pressure washing jobs and how to price them
- Driveways
- Per m², with re-sanding and sealing as separate options.
- Patios and paths
- Per m², often combined with driveways for a discounted total.
- Render and cladding
- Soft wash per m² with biocide, access priced separately.
- Decking
- Per m² clean and treat, with timber condition noted.
Regulations and certificates to reference
- Biocidal products — algae and lichen treatments are biocides and must be used to their product label. Note the product on the quote.
- Run-off and surface water drains — dirty water and detergent run-off must not go into surface water drains, which usually flow straight to rivers and streams. Collect it or direct it to a foul drain, and ask the local water company whether regular discharges need a trade effluent consent. If containment is part of the job, show it on the quote.
- Work at Height Regulations 2005 — roof and high-level render cleaning needs suitable access — price it as its own line.
Payment terms pressure washings commonly use
- Payment on completion; sealing jobs may need a second visit once the surface is fully dry.
- Commercial: 14–30 days.
Read more: Invoice payment terms explained · Payment methods to offer clients
VAT and CIS for pressure washings
VAT
Pressure washing is standard-rated at 20% once you are VAT-registered.
Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)
Routine exterior cleaning for homeowners and businesses is not a construction operation, so CIS does not apply.
External cleaning of buildings is excluded from CIS unless it's preparation for painting or decorating — for example, washing down a wall before a contractor paints it.
General guidance, not tax advice — check your position with HMRC or an accountant.
Read more: Do I need to charge VAT on my invoices? · What must an invoice include? (UK legal requirements)
What this template includes
- Surface type priced individually (driveway, patio, decking, render)
- Protective sealant treatment as an optional line
- Water runoff and drainage considerations noted
- Weather-dependent scheduling flagged
- PDF download or shareable tracked link
Full guide
How to Start a Pressure Washing Business as a Sole Trader
Frequently asked questions
Pressure washing removes some jointing sand from block paving. Re-sanding restores it and stabilises the blocks. It is a separate material and labour cost.
Sealing slows weed and algae regrowth and protects colour, but it needs a fully dry surface. Offer it as an option with its own price.
High pressure can damage render. Soft washing with low pressure and a biocide is the usual method. State which you will use.
Set a minimum charge to cover travel, setup and water. Price per m² above that.
Different surfaces need different pressure and technique — a deck cleaned like a driveway can be damaged. Pricing by surface type reflects the real difference in approach.
It's optional but extends how long a surface stays clean. It should be a clearly separate line so customers who decline it pay less than those who take it.
Heavy rain shortly after sealant application can affect curing. Scheduling is weather-dependent, and this should be noted on the quote.
More free templates
All templates- InvoiceDrainage EngineerA professional invoice template for drainage engineers. Itemise the CCTV survey, clearance method, and drain responsibility — download a branded PDF in under a minute.
- QuoteDamp Proofing SpecialistA professional quote template for damp proofing specialists. Itemise diagnosis, treatment, and guarantee terms — download a branded PDF in under a minute.
- QuoteInsulation InstallerA professional quote template for insulation installers. Itemise the pre-installation survey, ventilation notes, and grant eligibility — download a branded PDF in under a minute.
Send your first quote today
Free plan stays free forever. No credit card. Branded PDFs in 60 seconds.
Start free