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Hiring a professional carpet cleaning company
Not sure what to look for when hiring a professional carpet cleaning
company? We have put together some information to get you started.
 If
you’re finding that no matter how much you vacuum, your carpet still
does not look like it used to, it may be time for a deep cleaning. While
there are do-it-yourself cleaning methods on the market, hiring a
professional may be the safest, fastest and easiest option.
Picking a Professional cleaner
Perhaps the best way to select a carpet-cleaning professional is through
references from friends and family. A glowing endorsement can provide
great peace of mind. But, if you don’t know anyone with recommendations,
request references from the company. A reputable cleaning professional
should have available a list of satisfied clients or businesses that use
their services. Also, the local Better Business Bureau can act as a
reliable source of information on the cleaning company’s history.
Be cautious of any company contacting you over the phone or one that is
canvassing your neighborhood. Also, be wary of any company that
advertises a cleaning price by the room, as room sizes vary and charges
should be based on the total area cleaned. Some companies advertise the
use of brand name cleaning products or chemicals; however, it should be
noted that this does not necessarily suggest an affiliation with those
companies or added credibility for the cleaning service.
In order to determine the amount and type of cleaning services needed,
have the carpet cleaning representative come to your home for a visual
inspection. Do not accept quotes over the phone. He or she can check the
carpet for problem stains or excessively soiled areas that require
additional attention. Obtain a written agreement for all work to be
performed. Under normal circumstances, there should be no extra charge
for moving furniture, preconditioning, and routine spot and stain
removal.
Beware of pricing that is "too good to be true." Professionals should
charge only for services that are authorized in writing before cleaning
begins. Most cleaning is based on the total number of square feet to be
cleaned. Many firms have cleaning specials; however, pricing by the room
or low prices quoted over the phone may have hidden restrictions or
additional cost add-ons. A reliable firm will tell you the steps needed
to clean your carpet and provide a written agreement before work begins.
Contact the carpet manufacturer before allowing treatments to prevent
voiding warranties.
Interviewing the company
Once you have identified one or two companies, conduct an informal
interview to make sure you are dealing with a qualified, professional
cleaner. Here are some questions you can ask:
- How long has the company been in
business or a part of its current community? The answer can speak
volumes about its reputation and experience.
- What formal training is required for
the company’s management and cleaning technicians? A reputable
company should require that employees receive training certification
from recognized national companies or organizations and participate
in continuing education programs.
- What are the basic services offered
and what constitutes an extra charge? What are the prices for each?
- What type of cleaning method should
be used? Discuss with the professional the best cleaning method for
your carpet, as there are a variety of methods to suit different
carpet types and installations.
- Who will move the furniture, and is
there an extra charge for doing so?
Remember, before hiring carpet cleaning professionals, have a
representative come to your home and determine the type of cleaning
method that is most suitable, as well as inspect your carpet for
problem spots or extremely soiled areas. Discuss in detail the exact
services that are needed. To prevent voiding warranties, contact the
carpet manufacturer before allowing additional treatments, such as
re-applying stain treatments or anti-static treatments.
Signing the Contract
After you’ve finally made your decision, but before work begins, it is
recommended that you secure a written contract or invoice that confirms
the total price, as well as statements of guarantees that the cleaning
company offers. Carefully scrutinize the laundry list of services to be
performed. Make sure that you are not charged for any "extras," such as
removal of spots, preconditioning, deep cleaning, triple processes, pile
setting, vacuuming prior to cleaning, or color brightening, as these
services are usually included as part of normal cleaning.
While there are more than 35,000 reputable, ethical and good carpet
cleaning professionals in the United States, it is helpful to arm
yourself with these tips to ensure a quality job. Although it may be
tempting to base your decision on price alone, it is not advisable.
Consider all aspects of the company to get the full picture.
Helpful carpet cleaning information:
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