IICRC certification can give you the technical skills, qualifications, and expertise your customers expect, so you can do the job right.
When it comes to performing cleaning and restoration services for a home or business, there's a world of difference between getting a job done and getting a job done right. But how do you know what "right" is? Well, if you're in the cleaning and restoration industry, the answer is training and certification through the IICRC.
IICRC certification gives you the skills, knowledge and expertise to perform cleaning and restoration work in a variety of environments in accordance with globally recognized standards. Whether you're brand new to the restoration industry or a seasoned veteran who's been on numerous water damage restoration jobs, obtaining IICRC certification is well worth your time and effort.
Here, we'll briefly go over what IICRC certification is all about and why you should get your training done with Jon-Don.
What does it mean to be IICRC-certified?
The IICRC refers to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Headquartered in Las Vegas, the IICRC is a professional certification coalition that - in addition to providing training - sets best-practice standards for the restoration, cleaning and inspection industries.
When a technician is IICRC-certified, it means that they've satisfied all of the core competencies necessary to be a true carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and/or inspection professional.
Why is IICRC certification important?
Think about any service you may need, whether in your personal or professional life. You go into it with certain expectations that the person you're hiring has received the necessary education and training that makes them qualified to do what they do.
Because the IICRC is so highly respected, world-renowned and long-standing (established in 1972), IICRC certification is considered the gold standard of credentials in the cleaning and restoration industry. It means that your customers can trust that you have the training to effectively get the job done. In short, it creates confidence in your work. It also makes you more likely to be contacted for the job than someone who may be experienced, yet doesn't have this credential.
But there are many other reasons why IICRC certification is important to your business:
Carpet Manufacturers Specifically Recommend IICRC-Certified Cleaning Professionals
Most carpet mills and manufacturers recommend that cleaning be handled by an IICRC-certified professional to maintain the warranty on the carpet. If you aren't certified, you're less likely to get the job than someone who is. Plain and simple.
Some States and Insurers Make IICRC Certification Mandatory
When it comes to water damage, fire restoration or mold abatement, several states and property insurers often require contractors to have IICRC certification. Not having the appropriate certification may make you or your company ineligible to perform work in that state or for that adjuster.
Reduce Your Risk of Liability
Restoration work is inherently dangerous, both to your crew as well as to your customers. Dealing with Category III water damage or black mold remediation without the proper IICRC training and certification can lead to serious injury and the potential for legal action. You can reduce that threat by making sure you and your crew are up-to-date on all the latest standards and procedures.
When it comes to carpet and upholstery cleaning, the risk to health is less severe, but the wrong chemical or cleaning method can cause permanent and expensive damage. You don't want to have to pay for a new couch for your customer because you made a rookie mistake.
Advance Your Career and Grow Your Business
IICRC training offers a pathway to more advanced skills and training. After you obtain basic certification, you can continue to work toward Journeyman or Master designations. Building your skills and expertise can help you advance in your career or give you the knowledge you need to expand your business with new services.
Increase Profitability
IICRC certification can help you identify better work practices and improve your communication skills by understanding standards more thoroughly. You'll be able to work more efficiently and achieve better results. The more you can do, the better you can work, the more you can earn.
What does IICRC certification entail?
The IICRC offers certifications in a number of different fields for the cleaning and restoration industry. Here's a brief look at the most popular IICRC certification courses:
- Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)
- Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD)
- Building Moisture Inspection (BMI)
- Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT)
- Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS)
- Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT)
- Water Restoration Technician (WRT)
- Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT)
- Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician (SMT)
- Odor Control Technician (OCT)
- And several more!
To receive certification in any of these disciplines, you must complete the respective course assignments and pass an exam. The length of these courses can vary. Some are as short as one day, while others are as long as four or five days.
Similarly, the exams vary in the number of questions, and in the time you have to complete them, but they're all multiple choice. You must receive a 75% or above to pass the course but will have the opportunity to take it again, so long as it's within 45 days of your original testing date.
Get your IICRC certification training from Jon-Don
If you're looking to become an IICRC certified technician or an IICRC certified company, make Jon-Don your education provider of choice. Jon-Don is an IICRC approved school that offers a wide range of courses taught by the industry's best and most knowledgeable instructors. These courses include restoration seminars (OCT, WRT, FSRT), hard floor care seminars (SMT, VCT, LVT), carpet and upholstery cleaning seminars (CCT, UFT, VAST) and more.
Whether you're looking for the convenience of a virtual class or the hands-on experience of an in-person class, you can find the educational format that meets your needs here at Jon-Don. We're a one-stop shop for everything your business needs, including products and equipment, chemicals, cleaning supplies and more. Additionally, if your equipment requires service or repair, our team of industry experts will get it back in good working order as fast as possible.
Visit us online to find your next course or give us a call at 800-556-6366.
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