Why It Matters Who You Hire: Setting the Standard in Exterior Cleaning
When it comes to protecting your property - whether it's a family home, school, preschool, medical centre, or commercial building, exterior cleaning plays a vital role in both appearance and long-term maintenance. In New Zealand, the demand for building wash, soft washing, and water blasting has grown, but not all service providers offer the same level of care, safety, or professionalism. That’s why understanding the current state of the industry is more important than ever.
A Fragmented Industry With Growing Expectations
The exterior cleaning industry in New Zealand is largely made up of self-taught sole operators. While many are hard-working and passionate, the level of experience, safety knowledge, and technical skill varies significantly. With a low barrier to entry, it's common for people to start businesses without formal training or consistent standards putting properties, warranties, and even personal safety at risk.
Unfortunately, many residential and commercial property owners aren't aware of what to look for in a professional cleaning provider. As a result, the market includes a wide mix of quality, from best-in-class operators to underprepared individuals using outdated or unsafe techniques.
The Rise of the External Cleaning Industry Association (ECIA)
The industry began shifting in 2020, following the introduction of Auckland's water restrictions. At the time, there was no industry body to represent or support exterior cleaning professionals. In response, the External Cleaning Industry Association (ECIA) was formed, a move that has since helped raise standards nationwide.
The ECIA has developed a Code of Practice and a suite of Best Practice Guidelines that address key areas such as:
- Health and safety on residential and commercial job sites
- Sustainable chemical and water use
- Methods that support product warranties and protect building materials
The ECIA is also working closely with Waihanga Ara Rau to create New Zealand's first NZQA-recognised micro-qualification for exterior cleaning, due in early 2026. This qualification will standardise skills across the industry, making it easier for property managers and homeowners to hire with confidence.
Local Leaders Raising the Bar: JK Building Wash and Blast Off Services
Two stand-out ECIA members are leading the charge for better, safer cleaning standards: JK Building Wash in the South Island and Blast Off Services in Greater Auckland and the Waikato.
- JK Building Wash delivers expert, professional, and environmentally responsible exterior cleaning across the South Island. Their team specialises in soft washing and building wash services for homes, commercial sites, schools, and healthcare facilities, ensuring safety, quality and sustainability in every job.
- Blast Off Services brings expertise, professionalism, and eco-conscious techniques to homes, businesses, and institutions across Auckland and the Waikato, specialising in water blasting and commercial exterior cleaning.
Both companies proudly display their ECIA membership as a badge of trust, showing that they follow proven processes, operate with integrity, and put customer safety and satisfaction first.
Why ECIA Membership Matters for Your Property
Whether you're a homeowner wanting to extend the life of your paintwork, a preschool looking to maintain a hygienic play area, or a commercial landlord seeking to comply with maintenance standards, hiring an ECIA member comes with real benefits:
- Consistent Results: ECIA members are trained in best practices that protect property and ensure high-quality finishes.
- Warranty Protection: Many paint and cladding warranties require regular cleaning to remain valid.
- Health & Safety: From ladder use to chemical handling, ECIA members follow robust safety protocols.
- Eco-Friendly Solutions: Members adopt methods that conserve water and reduce chemical runoff, helping you meet your own sustainability goals.
In Summary: Know Who You Hire
As demand for exterior cleaning grows in Auckland, Waikato, Christchurch, and beyond, the need for professionalism and accountability in the industry has never been greater. The ECIA is paving the way for a better future and local members like JK Building Wash and Blast Off Services are helping to lead it.
When it comes to protecting your property, don’t just choose the cheapest quote. Choose experience. Choose accountability. Choose an ECIA-accredited provider.
Looking for trusted exterior cleaning in Auckland, Waikato or Christchurch?
Contact Blast Off Services (Auckland and Waikato) or JK Building Wash (South Island) – your local ECIA-accredited specialists in water blasting, building wash, and soft wash cleaning services.
