Driveway and patio pressure washing business

Homeowners, landlords and letting agents who want a tidy property without doing the work themselves.

Price per job, usually by area or by the time it takes. Add-ons such as sealing, sanding and gutter or fascia cleaning raise the value of each visit.

• Physical fitness and patience
• Good eye for detail and finish
• Quoting jobs fairly
• Customer service

• Public liability insurance, which most customers and letting agents will expect
• Check whether you need permission to use a customer's water supply and where run-off water can go
• Check local rules on wastewater, especially near drains and watercourses
• High pressure can damage soft stone, old pointing, paintwork and windows, so test first
• Weather and seasons can make work uneven, with quieter winter months

Startup costs are typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on the pressure washer, van, add-on equipment and insurance you choose. These are estimates, so price up your own kit list and compare suppliers before you buy.

Check that you have public liability insurance, which most customers and letting agents expect. Also check whether you need permission to use a customer's water supply, where run-off water can go, and local rules on wastewater near drains and watercourses.

Monthly revenue is typically around £600 to £3,500, depending on how many jobs you take and whether you add weed treatment or sealing. Expect at least around 8 hours a week, with quieter winter months.