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This is a great topic for the PWNA to tackle and hopefully provide direction. It is a tough position as all states are different when it comes to licensing. There is no real classification for power washers in CA. I contacted them several times and asked for direction. Everytime I called I received different answers. I agree with Alan that by having a state license would certainly bring creditability to our industry and to the company that posses the license. For me ~ I have a city business license. Before I was issued my license, my city called the State Contractors Board and asked whether or not I needed a specific license to conduct business. They were told no. Though our industry is rich in heritage it is still very much fragmented as it relates to overall standards. I think this is a wortwhile topic and should be kept on everyones radar screen for future discussion. Alan/Jon ~ Let me know when you guys want to meet. I would like to see the PWNA Chapter idea manifest itself for us out here in Calif. Cheers!

Aaron - I agree with Rick ~ try to get as much equipment that you need to promote/expand your business with a "frugal" perspective. Going from 2 to 10 employees is a big jump and trust that you researched the "negative" impact your company will have if you were to lose 25%, 35% or 45% of its contracts. Nobody likes to lose contracts but it happens in our business for one reason or another. The loan officer may inquire what your contigency plan would be if you were to loose ~ say 27% of your business! Be ready with a direct and thought out response (reduction in workforce, increased marketing ideas, expanded services such as cleaning houses, flat work, fleet wash, govt. contracts and etc.) Some people may disagree, but a "complete" business plan should include a contigency plan that addresses what you would do if your company were ever faced with serious cuts in your contracts. Loans are great when everything is going great but they can be a liability when your services take a "dip". The loan officer wants to feel comfortable financing you ~ even during the "bad times". Show him/her that you care enough about your business that you considered all angles. Good luck Quote - "You can't think your way into good living...you need to live your way into good thinking"

Mike C, I would also be interested in hearing how the installation went. I am considering putting a skid mount in a Dodge 350 extended van. I am not so much worried about the room but the suspension. As Mike from NFPW mentioned ~ you will have a lot of weight on the back of that E250. That is going to be alot of work on the suspension and the engine if you are running the rig pretty consistently. Let us know how it worked out and good luck ;)

Dale, I could use a copy of both also if you do not mind! email at newlookpowerwash@aol.com Thanks, New Look Power Wash