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Avoiding
the Carpet Cleaning Scam?
How
to select a professional carpet cleaner. article
by Linda D. Kanouse
"Cleaning
Carpet Can Be a Dirty Business."
"Not
All Scum is in the Carpet."
"Don't
Let Them Pull the Rug Out From Under You."
"Clean
Your Carpets Without Cleaning Out Your Wallet."
"Don't
Ger Taken to the Cleaners."
These
clever phrases have appeared recently in newspaper articles and television
consumer news programs across the nation warning consumers about carpet
cleaning scam operations. The media had related horror stories of trusting
consumers who have responded to low-price carpet cleaning specials only to
become victims of unethical cleaners who refuse to honor the advertised
price, intimidate the consumers, and do poor quality work.
Bait
and switch operators are prevalent in many industries, and the carpet
cleaning industry is no exception. This does not mean, though, that all
carpet cleaners are rip-off artists. But, how do you know who is and who
is not? The professional carpet cleaning industry has cited these scam
activities as a major industry concern and is taking action to help
eliminate unprofessional workmanship and unethical tactics. Once of these
leaders in this campaign is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and
Restoration Certification (IICRC); an international, nonprofit
organization that certifies cleaners who meet prescribed levels of
technical proficiency and pledge to operate by a "Code of
Ethics."
To
help educate consumers so they will not become victims of fraudulent
practices within the cleaning industry, the IICRC has released a list of
guidelines to consider when selecting a carpet cleaner.
-
Price
- If an advertised price sounds too good to be true - it is! Often
carpet cleaners advertise a low price just to get their foot in the
door. Use common sense; low price usually equates to low quality for
any product or service. Legitimate business people have legitimate
expenses they must cover, including licenses, taxes, insurance,
employee wages including benefits, and quality tools of the trade. A
professional carpet cleaner who must cover all of these business
expenses and make a reasonable profit to stay in business cannot
afford to drive to your house for $5.95., much less clean a room of
carpet when there.
-
Quality
- Never should the price of cleaning services be the sole criterion
for selecting a carpet cleaner. A price that sounds high may not be a
signal of a rip-off. In all professions, quality work deserves a
quality price.
-
Truth
in Advertising - Read the fine print in advertised specials to
find out exactly what the price includes, and request a firm price in
writing before the work begins.
-
Training
- Professional cleaning firms require management and employees to
engage in formal training in a variety of cleaning disciplines, and
these educational efforts will be ongoing. Consumers should ask about
the formal training background of technicians who will be cleaning
their carpet.
-
Certification
- Professional firms require certification of technicians through such
certification organizations as the IICRC or through comparable
franchises or independent training and testing organizations.
-
Experience
- The years of experience a firm has, combined with formal training
programs contribute significantly to the experience and proficiency of
its employees.
-
Knowledgeable
- Professional firms employ and train technicians who have the ability
to answer basic questions regarding carpet performance and maintenance,
as well as spotting and cleaning.
-
References
- Consumers should ask for references from previous customers, and
they should consult friends and business acquaintances about the
reputation of the cleaning firm they are considering. Do not hesitate
to call the Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau.
-
Trade
Associations - Professional cleaning firms are members of regional
or national trade associations or other organizations that promote
high ethical standards and continuing education. Look for the PCUCA
(Professional Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners Association) logo when
selecting your next cleaner.
-
Cleaning
Standard - Ask if the cleaner is operating according to the IICRC
S001-1991 Cleaning Standard. Ask to see a copy of this industry
prescribed document.
-
Method
- Ask the cleaner which method of cleaning will be used and the
advantages and disadvantages of this method compared to other methods.
-
Proof
- Never hesitate to ask for proof. Ask to see the cleaner's
certificate of training, business license, and insurance certificate.
-
No
Pressure - Technicians must be courteous and willing to take the
time to thoroughly explain the cleaning and answer all questions. The
consumer should never feel pressured.
There
is no single criterion for selecting a carpet cleaning service. Several
combined factors must be considered in the selection decision.
<end>
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Article: Carpet
Cleaner or Exterminator? Understanding what lies beneath your wand will result
in a healthy carpet. article by Joe Domin
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