The carpet cleaning business is rife with companies that overshoot their guarantees and, in the opinion of Cleaner One's Paul Beaton, under-deliver. “You need to do your research,” says Mr. Beaton, owner of Cleaner One in San Ramon. “Past behavior is the best indicator of future behavior.”
He recommends relying on referrals, word of mouth and, most of all, the endorsement of unbiased sources such as Diamond Certified. He also suggests checking the Better Business Bureau’s previous complaint list. “Some companies have a shady past,” he warns. “You should also look for problems on their contractor’s license.”
While there’s nothing inherently wrong with carpet cleaning companies that offer a bargain, Mr. Beaton warns against shopping by price alone. “In the carpet cleaning business, margins aren’t large enough for companies to slash prices too much and still turn enough of a profit that allows them to stay in business and offer good service. Often, too-low prices translate to poor quality, and in the long run, that’s no bargain,” he says.
Hire a company you trust and feel comfortable interacting with, advises Mr. Beaton. “Trust your instincts. Look for some degree of personal chemistry. If problems arise, you need to know you can work amicably toward a resolution.”
