Pressure washing in Southwark.

Look at the border as well as the paving.

A patio bordered by shrubs, pots or a lawn needs more than a photograph of its middle. Show the edge where soil spills onto the slabs, any pond and the route used by pets. This helps us agree protection, debris collection and the parts of the garden that need to remain accessible.

Leaf staining, algae and black spots are different problems. Tell us which marks persist after sweeping and where water sits after rain. We can discuss a realistic clean and any separate treatment without assuming that every dark mark should be chased with more pressure.

Keep the detail that makes the entrance yours.

Southwark publishes separate conservation information for Dulwich Village and Dulwich Wood. Check the address against the council guidance if exterior work may affect an older building or protected feature; a postcode alone does not establish its status.

For an old tiled path, decorative step or weathered garden wall, send close-ups of the surface and the joints. Our ordinary cleaning offer does not include specialist heritage restoration. A test and a gentler approach may be appropriate; fragile or significant fabric may need another specialist.

Southwark Council: conservation area list and maps

Agree the route, then the finished space.

Where there is no side gate, photograph the route through the house, including the narrowest door and any changes in level. Let us know about shared access or a garden reached from another street. We agree a practical route before accepting the job.

For a whole-garden clean, identify the surfaces you want included: paving, side path, steps, deck or accessible wall. Heavy planters, waste removal and repairs need their own agreement. We leave you with an explanation of drying, any remaining marks and any separately planned finishing work.