IICRC Standards

Trained Technicians - Companies must be willing to send trained technicians to pre-inspect carpet in all of the areas that need cleaning. They must identify the carpet’s construction and fiber, evaluate individual needs and recommend an appropriate cleaning method or procedure. The certified technician is the key to quality results - not a particular method, machine or process.

NO Hidden Cost - Consumers have the right to expect itemized and firm prices before technicians begin each portion of the work sold. While technicians may offer added services such as odor control and carpet protector at an additional cost, consumers should never feel pressured to accept anything more than the services they request and authorize.

Pre-vacuuming - Technicians should carefully pre-vacuum all carpet before other cleaning techniques are employed, regardless of the method of cleaning used. Special emphasis should be placed on vacuuming major entry areas where soils accumulate. This is what most companies fail to perform. Make sure it is on the written estimate or they might fail to vacuum.

Furniture Moving - Unless clearly specified otherwise, moving some furniture to access and clean carpet underneath should be considered part of the normal cleaning job. Items such as fish tanks, waterbeds, loaded china cabinets, computers or extremely delicate or fragile furnishings (pianos, antiques) are considered exceptions.

Spotting - Special attention to spots is included in normal job performance. However time-consuming specialized spotting or prolonged effort on color-added spots (ex: kool aid) may incur an additional charge. Customers should be advised of additional charges before extensive spotting procedures are undertaken. Stains are considered permanent and need alternate procedures. Stains are spots that will not come clean with any cleaning method.

Pre-conditioning - Special treatment with pre-conditioning agents in heavily soiled entry and traffic areas should be included in the cost of cleaning. However, overall job cost may increase in extreme soiling situations. Then a shampooing method might be needed at an additional charge. Consumers should be advised in advance for such increased charges.

Minimal Drying Time - It is the cleaner’s responsibility, with the consumers cooperation, to ensure that the carpet is dried and returned to normal use within a reasonable time frame. The amount of time required for drying will vary with different method, the degree of soil and the aggressiveness of cleaning. However, under no circumstances should carpet dying require more than twenty four hours (24) with proper ventilation. The consumers cooperation in providing continuous airflow and or ventilation to expedite drying cannot be over emphasized.