Do Carpet Cleaners Need a Cleaning License?

Running any sort of business usually demands certain legal obligations, like securing permits and licenses. The cleaning industry is no exception. Carpet cleaning businesses in particular, are called to the same standards to help regulate their work to protect both the clients and the company. So whether you’re planning to join the venture or you’re a homeowner simply ensuring your transactions are with trusted carpet cleaners, we’re here to tackle the question: do carpet cleaners need a license?

Franchises or Startups

Like any other business, franchises are also available in the carpet cleaning industry. Franchising is the easiest option for aspiring business owners since you’re already leveraged by the current reputation of the company. This saves you the time and financial investments needed to build your own name and reputation. However, a hefty sum is needed to afford the franchise investment on top of other startup costs.

From the customer’s perspective, franchising assures them of the same service standards upheld by the brand. A thriving franchise will ideally offer top-rate customer services considering its years in the business.

Individual carpet cleaning businesses, on the other hand, provide cleaners with much more flexibility in terms of service provisions and prices. It’s also much cheaper than franchising but will call for more investment in reeling in customers. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) provides carpet cleaning training and certifications that you can avail of. Likewise, customers can also check if their local carpet cleaners are listed and certified.

Licenses

Apart from having business bank accounts, carpet cleaners are expected to meet the minimum requirements for operation. Applying for a cleaning license will depend on your location. Some local governments specifically require cleaning business licenses while others are fine with just regular business permits. Before getting licensed, you may also be required to get a license bond.

Getting these requirements settled will help you close certain contracts with clients, including government agencies. You can always visit the US Small Business Administration for more information.

Bonds

Bonds, while created to help mainly clients, also help businesses in terms of financial coverage and credibility. They ensure clients that you’re able to deliver agreed upon services, and that you can reimburse them should you fail to meet requirements.

In fact, many clients nowadays prefer that you get bonded before signing a contract with you. Getting surety bonds are therefore a practical choice for covering potential damages and inefficiencies, as well as marketing your services.

Insurance

Apart from the required bonds, you can go the extra mile and ensure your business is backed by insurance.

Now, you might be wondering what the difference between insurance and bonds may be. For one, bonds are intended to protect the clients. Your insurance, on the other hand, protects your business. Another difference is payment. Bonds need to be paid in full, including premiums, whereas insurance only needs premium payments.

There are a few insurance options available for your carpet cleaning business. The ones you’ll need will largely depend on your location, the size of your company, and the services you provide.

For homeowners, welcoming strangers, even service people, can be discomforting. Knowing that you’re letting in people who are licensed to conduct their services and are proficient at what they do is an assurance people definitely need. A common takeaway for both homeowners and aspiring carpet cleaners is that proper licenses, permits, and bonds make up an excellent cleaning professional.

Originally published at www.thecarpetlegacy.com on October 15, 2018.