Wastewater FAQ - Environmental Cleaning

PWNC contractors support local government efforts throughout the Carolinas to implement reasonable and rational Clean Water Act regulations.

These regulations are designed to safeguard the future quality of recreational waters and the supply of quality drinking water for coming generations in our states.

Our member-contractors are trained in proper methods to handle used wash water so that it doesn’t end up in our streams, lakes, and coastal waters. Handling used wash water in a responsible manner protects the environment, protects our customers, and protects our businesses. Applying common-sense guidelines and practical solutions to problem areas like this can be good for everyone.

The environment is protected because wash water does not end up flowing into our beautiful waterways, keeping them pristine and protecting aquatic life.

Property owners - our customers - are protected from fines and penalties for Clean Water Act violations by hiring a trained PWNC contractor member. The EPA has declared that property owners are responsible for the proper disposal of any soils on their property – including oil dripped on parking lots and other everyday pollution sources. Property owners are responsible for the cleaners and chemicals a contractor might use to clean a property, too.  PWNC contractors protect property owners by properly handling used wash water and properly disposing of pollution using the approved Best Management Practices recommended in each region.

Our businesses can prosper, free of unrealistic restrictions on the use of water or our waste water systems. Taxes stay lower, too, because we reduce the need for additional waste water treatment capacity. When you hire a trained professional for your exterior cleaning, everyone wins.

Responsible contractors are always the right choice for your exterior cleaning needs.  Many PWNC members are recognized as trained Environmental Pressure Wash Contractors by Alliance Trade Education Services, an independent industry training company.

If your current contractor stares at the ground and shuffles his feet when you ask him about environmental cleaning, it is time for you to look for a trained professional. You can’t afford not to. Please check out the Network Associates feature of this PWNC web site, select your area and find an environmentally responsible expert near you.  

If you are interested in the municipal codes for your area, there is an online library available at Municode.com

Frequently Asked Questions

(Q) What is the Clean Water Act?

(A) The Clean Water Act is a U.S. federal law that regulates the discharge of pollutants into the nation's surface waters, including lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands, and coastal areas.

(Q) What is the difference in a Storm Drain and a Sanitary Sewer?

(A) A Storm Drain is for water from the sky and flows directly to the water supply without treatment. A Sanitary Sewer is for wastewater that needs to be cleaned and recycled back to the creeks.

(Q) Who is affected by the Clean Water Actt?

(A) Everyone! This law does not just apply to power washers. It is everyone's responsibility to comply with the Federal Guidelines for what water is allowed to reach Storm Drains! Beyond the Federal Guidelines are state, county & municipal regulations on what water can be disposed of in Sanitary Sewers! Sanitary Sewers and the subsequent treatment facilities can't handle everything!

(Q) What do pressure washing professionals do with my wash water?

(A) Depending on the nature of the cleaning project, a professional & compliant company will prevent any water from reaching the storm drains or sanitary sewers prior to the appropriate treatment. There are a variety of methods that can be implemented in order to stay within the boundaries set by the governing authorities. The PWNC works with many entities to insure that BMP's or Best Management Practice's are put into place to protect our environment. Many companies also elect to become Certified Contractors in Environmental Cleaning.

We welcome your questions! Please feel free to email your questions to us at info@pwnc.org!