About the Exterior Cleaning Association (ECA)
Raising Standards in Exterior Cleaning Across the UK and Ireland
About Us
The Exterior Cleaning Association (ECA) was founded to bring professionalism, safety, and credibility back to the exterior cleaning industry across the UK and Ireland. In recent years, our industry has seen an increase in untrained and unqualified operators often using unsafe methods or illegal chemicals, and causing damage to property and the environment. These unsafe practices not only risk harm to themselves, customers surfaces, the environment and the general public but also undermine skilled, professional contractors who take pride in their work. The ECA was created to restore order, raise standards, and build trust between professionals and the public. Our goal is to create a level playing field where quality, safety, and integrity come first.
We support our members through:
- Training and accreditation to ensure competence and compliance.
- Guidance on safe, legal, and environmentally responsible practices.
- A professional network for businesses to share knowledge and grow.
- Public awareness campaigns helping customers choose verified contractors they can trust.
Raising Standards Across the UK & Ireland
Why Join the Exterior Cleaning Association?
Gain recognition, guidance, and community as part of the UK & Ireland’s trusted network of professional exterior cleaning contractors.
Professional Recognition
Training & Accreditation
Networking & Support
Safe & Responsible Practices
Credibility & Trust
Industry Representation
Interested in becoming a member of the ECA?
Join the UK & Ireland’s leading association dedicated to raising standards in exterior cleaning.
Independent and Non-Brand Specific
The Exterior Cleaning Association (ECA) is a fully independent, non‑brand‑specific organisation. We do not endorse or promote any single product manufacturer, supplier, or training provider. Our mission is to represent the interests of all exterior cleaning professionals regardless of brand, method, or equipment used provided they operate safely, legally, and to professional standards. This independence ensures that the ECA remains impartial, inclusive, and focused solely on raising industry standards.
Raise standards of workmanship, safety, and environmental responsibility.
Promote training and accreditation across all areas of exterior cleaning.
Protect both professionals and the public through clear guidance and ethical business practices.
Support contractors through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community building.
Scope & Purpose
The ECA exists to unite and represent everyone working within the exterior cleaning industry across the UK and Ireland. Our scope covers the full range of exterior cleaning disciplines including pressure washing, roof and gutter cleaning, surface restoration, sealing, exterior maintenance, and safe chemical cleaning methods such as soft washing. We recognise that specialist organisations already exist to support specific techniques within the trade, such as soft washing. The ECA’s role is to complement and collaborate, not compete providing a unified voice that represents the entire profession to customers, suppliers, insurers, and regulatory bodies.
Mission & Vision
Integrity, Safety, and Trust Across the UK & Ireland
Our Story
We founded the Exterior Cleaning Association to bring pride and professionalism back to our industry. Too many untrained operators cut corners. We unite skilled businesses across the UK & Ireland, promote safe, legal methods, and help the public choose trusted contractors through clear standards, recognised training, and a visible member badge.
Mission
Raise standards in exterior cleaning by championing competence, safety and integrity. We support members with COSHH-aware training, practical guidance and a non-brand-specific approach. We make it easier for customers to find insured, professional contractors who work responsibly and deliver quality results every time.
Vision
A respected industry where every contractor operates safely, legally and to high professional standards—and every customer can hire with confidence. Across the UK & Ireland, the ECA badge becomes the mark of trustworthy workmanship, fair practice, and continuous improvement in exterior cleaning.
Raising Standards Across the UK & Ireland
Ready to Join the Exterior Cleaning Association?
Become part of the UK & Ireland’s trusted network of professional exterior cleaners. Access accredited training, industry recognition, and a supportive community dedicated to raising standards in safety, quality, and professionalism.