February 2011 – There is no legal requirement in Australia for carpet cleaning practitioners to be regulated or licensed. KATHERINE STEWART from Individual Cleaners Australia and New Zealand (ICAN) outlines the case for centralised industry stewardship.
Did you know that the cleaning, carpet cleaning and flood restoration industries are completely unregulated?
Pretty scary, considering that a poorly completed job can lead to major health and now legal issues.
So how does one sort the professionals from the cowboys? And how can the professionals make themselves known to clients and the public, who may have little knowledge about the difference between the two?
Katherine Stewart.
This is one of the many goals that ICAN is working towards. ICAN is a non-profit association that represents all individuals in the cleaning industry.
The strength of any association relies on the number of its members and it is the responsibility of all professional individuals in the industry to support a trade association trying to make their industry better and more profitable for them.
Most recently, ICAN has been working towards trade recognition for the carpet cleaning industry, which would mean a regulated and controlled industry – without the cowboys. Carpet is one of the most expensive items in a home or business, and it is also one of the biggest filters. When cleaned properly by a trained and certified carpet cleaner, carpet will last longer, meaning you get the most out of your investment. If, however, you opt for an untrained and non-certified carpet cleaner, what you save on initial costs will only be lost through premature carpet replacement and ongoing health and even legal issues. Many health issues can arise from carpet that has not been cleaned properly or with proper equipment.
Make sure your carpet cleaner has:
- recognised qualifications, including certified training such as Cert II and III Asset Maintenance
- membership of an Australian registered industry association – and can produce evidence of membership, not just the logo on their website, and
- further training through a registered training organisation like IICRC, Daniels Associates, Jena Dyco, ITI, WoolSafe, Bennett Direct.
The other more recent goal ICAN has been working towards is formal education for property managers through the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales, particularly on topics such as water damage, flood restoration and the effects of mould in carpet, from both legal and health perspectives.
Most people are not aware that carpet can be fully restored and repaired after a flood, and consequently the carpet would not have to be replaced if its cleaning were entrusted to a trained and certified water damage/flood restoration technician – this is different to a carpet cleaner.
Wet carpet, if left too long, will start to produce mould, which can not only jeopardise health, it can also minimise the possibility of repair. Most technicians will offer a seven-day, 24-hour response for emergency jobs, so the carpet has the best opportunity for full restoration. Using a trained and certified technician will also maximise the likelihood of a speedy claims process.
ABOUNT ICAN
As the ‘new kid on the block’ when it comes to associations within the industry (and revolutionising the idea that bigger is better), ICAN is a relatively small association, run by its members, and borne from the need for an independent body. ICAN helps certified, trained and skilled technicians to realise their aims for the betterment of the industry as a whole.
ICAN not only encourages people to enter the cleaning industry, but also helps develop their knowledge and confidence through: business development, mentoring, networking and training. The association has a core membership of experienced people who are willing to freely share their time and knowledge. They are not affiliated with any one supplier, training body or manufacturer, but are supported by a range of all three of these sectors – most of which can offer ICAN members discounts as part of their support of the association and its work. This ensures that ICAN can offer truly independent advice and support to members to help them reach their full potential.
Other ways ICAN supports its members:
- The Forum: members of ICAN have online access to a vast web of thoroughly professional, skilled and experienced people within the industry. From posting simple questions and getting answers fast to learning new techniques and gaining up-to-date information, members can discuss all sorts of topics on a simple, easy-to-use platform.
- The Support: The ‘support network’ isn’t purely online for ICAN members. There is also a ‘helpline’ of sorts, available to all members. This is an invaluable service, particularly to newcomers to the cleaning industry, especially when on-site help is required. ICAN also runs social nights for members and potential members.
- The Network: ICAN, through its close-knit network, believes ‘cooperation’ has all but replaced ‘competition’. Established ‘gurus’ help the new guys (and gals) through referrals and subcontracting.
Katherine Stewart is chief executive officer of Individual Cleaners Australia and New Zealand (ICAN). As co-owner of ADSAM Carpet Cleaning and THE RUG WASH, both based in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Stewart offers a range of services including carpet, upholstery, leather, tile, paver cleaning, carpet repair and specialised services, as well as fine rug care and cleaning.
FIVE MYTHS ABOUT CARPET CLEANING:
(1) Myth: All carpet cleaners are the same.
FACT: Use a trained and certified carpet cleaner – see the difference.
(2) Myth: All carpet cleaners can restore flood-damaged carpet.
FACT: They must be a certified water damage/flood restoration technician.
(3) Myth: Carpet causes allergies.
FACT: When properly cleaned, carpeting may improve air quality by trapping dust and allergens.
(4) Myth: Vacuum quality makes little difference.
FACT: A high-quality vacuum can maintain your carpet between cleans.
(5) Myth: The five-second rule.
FACT: Bacteria can live on carpet for up to four weeks.
More information
ICAN www.individualcleaner.org