How to Select a Professional Company
and Avoid Getting Burned!
Phrases have appeared recently in newspaper articles and televised
consumer news programs across the nation warning consumers about
carpet cleaning scams. The Media has reported horror stories
of trusting consumers who have responded to low-price carpet
cleaning specials only to become victims of unethical cleaners.
They refuse to honor the advertised price, intimidate consumers,
and charged 15 to 20 times the original amount and still get
a poor quality work.
Bait-and-switch operators are prevalent in many industries, and
the carpet cleaning industry is no exception. This does not mean
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 concern and is taking
action to help eliminate unprofessional workmanship and unethical
tactics. To help educate consumers so that they do not become victims
of fraudulent practices White Knight Steamer has a list of guidelines
to consider when selecting a professional carpet cleaner.
PRICE: If an advertised
price sounds too good to be true' it is! Often carpet cleaners
advertise a low price to get their foot in the door, then charging
up to 20x the original price. Use common sense; low price equates
to low quality for any product or service. Legitimate business
people have expenses they must cover, including license, insurance,
taxes, employee wages, benefits, and quality tools of the trade.
A professional carpet cleaner who must cover all these business
expenses and make a reasonable profit to stay in business cannot
afford to drive to your house for $9.95, much less clean a room
of carpet when there. The average industry price to clean a room
is $48.00. (20/20 & Nightline).
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 signal of
a rip-off. In all professions, quality work deserves a quality
price. Many of these Bait-and-switch companies do a terrible job;
Over charge you and cause damage to your carpet. History Teaches
us: "You pet what you pay for!"
TRUTH IN ADVERTISING:
Read the fine print in the advertised specials to find out what
the price includes and request a firm price over the phone or before
the work begins. You'll find that the more you question about getting
your carpet the cleanest, the higher your price goes. This shows
their true intent.
TRAINING: Professional
cleaning firms require management and employees to engage in formal
training. Consumers should ask about the formal training background
of technicians who will be cleaning their carpet.
CERTIFICATION: Professional
firms should have some certifications. There are many options for
ongoing training and testing for organizations and/or individuals.
EXPERIENCE: The years
of experience a firm has, combined with formal training programs,
contribute significantly to the experience and proficiency of its
employees.
REFERENCES: Consumers
should ask for references. Most importantly they should consult
friends, neighbors and business acquaintances about the reputation
of the cleaning firm they are considering. Don't hesitate to call
the Better Business Bureau 704-527-0012
KNOWLEDGE: Professional
firms employ and train technicians to have the ability to answer
basic questions regarding carpet performance and maintenance, as
well as spotting and cleansing. No one is going to have all the
answers, but should be knowledgeable in what they are doing.
TRADE ASSOCIATIONS: Professional
cleaning firms are members of regional or national trade associations
or other organizations that promote high ethical standards and
continuing education. Some major ones are BBB, IICRC, ASCR, ISCT,
Chamber of Commerce, etc.
METHOD: Ask the cleaner
which method of cleaning will be used and the advantages and disadvantages
of this method compared to other methods. The basic methods are,
Dry Foam, Dry Cleaning, Absorbent Pad, Rotary Shampoo, & Hot-Water
Extraction. Most cleaners will chose a cleaning method based on
their business startup costs, not which process is the best for
you or your carpets.
PROOF: Never hesitate
to ask for proof. Ask to see certificates, business licenses or
insurance certificates. Many say they have it but don't! You don't
just want anyone in your house!
NO PRESSURE: Technicians
should be courteous and willing to take the time to thoroughly
explain the cleaning and to answer all questions. The consumer
should never feel uncomfortable or pressured to do anything against
their will.
GUARANTEE: Cleaners should
offer a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE ON THEIR WORKMANSHIP. If they don't
have enough confidence in themselves, why should you feel comfortable
in hiring them?
Experienced
Professionals Who Care About What They’re Doing.
The
Proper Equipment. (HOT-WATER EXTRACTION) 
