Terms of Service

SnoWhite Property Maintenance

These Terms of Service ("Terms") apply to all pressure washing, soft washing, house washing, gutter cleaning, and related exterior cleaning services ("Services") provided by SnoWhite Property Maintenance ("we", "us", "our") to the customer ("you", "the Client"). By accepting a quote, booking a service, or allowing us to commence work, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

1. Scope of Services

1. 1.1 We provide exterior cleaning services using water, detergents, chemicals, and equipment appropriate to the task.
2. 1.2 Services are limited to the areas specifically quoted or agreed in writing.
3. 1.3 Any additional work requested on-site may incur additional charges and must be approved before commencement.

2. Access, Utilities, and Site Conditions

1. 2.1 You agree to provide safe, clear, and unrestricted access to the work areas.
2. 2.2 You agree to provide access to a suitable water supply and electricity where required.
3. 2.3 We are not responsible for delays or inability to complete work due to unsafe conditions, aggressive animals, locked gates, poor access, or undisclosed hazards.

3. Client Responsibilities

1. 3.1 You must disclose all known issues with the property, including but not limited to:
   • Pre-existing damage
   • Leaks, loose fittings, or compromised structures
   • Electrical faults, exposed wiring, or non-compliant installations
   • Weather-tightness or weathertightness concerns
2. 3.2 You are responsible for ensuring all windows, doors, vents, and openings are properly closed and sealed prior to service.
3. 3.3 You must remove or secure fragile items, furniture, and personal belongings from work areas.

4. All Care, No Responsibility – General Disclaimer

1. 4.1 All care is taken; however, all Services are undertaken entirely at the Client's risk.
2. 4.2 Exterior cleaning may reveal pre-existing damage including, but not limited to, cracked paint, flaking coatings, deteriorated sealants, loose fixtures, or hidden defects.
3. 4.3 We accept no responsibility or liability for damage arising from:
   • Pre-existing conditions
   • Normal wear and tear
   • Poor workmanship by others
   • Age, degradation, or improper installation of materials

5. Electrical Components – No Liability (Critical Clause)

1. 5.1 Electrical components are cleaned entirely at the Client's risk.
2. 5.2 This includes, but is not limited to:
   • Exterior power outlets
   • Light fittings
   • Heat pumps and air conditioning units
   • Meter boxes
   • Doorbells, cameras, alarms, sensors, and smart home devices
   • Any component described as "weatherproof", "weather-tight", or "IP rated"
3. 5.3 While reasonable care is taken, we do not guarantee that any electrical component is waterproof, weather-tight, or fit for exposure to water.
4. 5.4 Many electrical fittings rely on seals that degrade over time. We cannot assess the integrity of these seals.
5. 5.5 SnoWhite Property Maintenance accepts no responsibility for:
   • Electrical failure
   • Short circuits
   • Loss of power
   • Damage to electrical systems or components
   • Consequential loss arising from electrical malfunction
6. 5.6 By proceeding with the service, you expressly agree that all electrical components are excluded from any liability or warranty, regardless of their rating, description, or age.

6. Water Ingress & Weathertightness

1. 6.1 Pressure washing and soft washing involve the use of water near building surfaces.
2. 6.2 We are not responsible for water ingress caused by:
   • Failed or degraded seals
   • Cracked cladding
   • Poor flashing or building design
   • Blocked or defective drainage systems
   • Historical or hidden weathertightness issues
3. 6.3 This includes but is not limited to leaks into wall cavities, ceilings, electrical systems, or interior spaces.

7. Surfaces & Materials

1. 7.1 Some surfaces may be unsuitable for pressure washing, including fragile paint, old timber, damaged plaster, or previously repaired areas.
2. 7.2 We are not liable for damage caused by cleaning surfaces that are inherently weak, compromised, or incorrectly installed.
3. 7.3 Colour fading, patchiness, or uneven appearance may occur due to age or previous coatings and is not our responsibility.

8. Chemicals & Treatments

1. 8.1 Cleaning chemicals are used in accordance with industry standards.
2. 8.2 We are not responsible for adverse reactions caused by previous treatments, coatings, or unknown substances on surfaces.

9. Quotes, Pricing & Payment

1. 9.1 Quotes are based on visible conditions at the time of inspection or information provided by the Client.
2. 9.2 Additional charges may apply if conditions differ from those described.
3. 9.3 Payment is due as agreed. Late payments may incur fees or recovery costs.

10. Cancellations & Weather

1. 10.1 We reserve the right to reschedule due to unsafe weather conditions.
2. 10.2 Cancellation fees may apply if insufficient notice is provided.

11. Limitation of Liability

1. 11.1 To the maximum extent permitted by New Zealand law, our liability is limited to re-performing the Services or refunding the amount paid, at our discretion.
2. 11.2 We are not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential losses, including loss of use, income, or enjoyment.

12. Consumer Guarantees Act 1993

1. 12.1 Where Services are supplied for personal or household use, nothing in these Terms is intended to exclude rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
2. 12.2 Where Services are supplied for business or commercial purposes, the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 does not apply.

13. Indemnity

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless SnoWhite Property Maintenance from any claims, damages, or losses arising from:

• Undisclosed hazards
• Pre-existing defects
• Failure to comply with these Terms

14. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand.