I know we’ve touched on this topic before, but I wanted to revisit the importance of not only being an IICRC Certified Technician, but also making sure your company is an IICRC Certified Firm.

Becoming a Certified Firm enables your company to promote itself in more ways, and may provide a competitive advantage for your business. Of course, you know that Certified Firms are the only cleaning, restoration and inspection companies listed in the IICRC referral database, available to consumers at www.certifiedcleaners.org, but what are some of the other benefits?

As the IICRC works with other organizations, part of the goal is to incorporate a suggestion or recommendation for using IICRC Certified Firms in consumer or other materials. Most professionals are aware of the Shaw warranty, which went into effect January 1, 2008, and requires warranty work be done by an IICRC Certified Firm. The IICRC also recently partnered with the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) to include a suggestion for use of IICRC Certified Firms that specialize in upholstery cleaning in its Furniture Care Codes.

Then there is the IICRC’s government affairs work. The IICRC has been working with the State of Maryland for some time on potential mold legislation. While the legislation was put on hold due to budgetary reasons resulting from the recession, the government affairs committee was still able to get the IICRC included in a mold remediation brochure directed at consumers.

Being a Certified Firm can also directly help your business. Certified Firms are the only companies allowed to use the IICRC Certified Firm logo in marketing materials. And, the IICRC works hard to ensure its logo is used properly. Each reported violation of improper logo use is investigated by a dedicated staff member and proper action is taken. In fact, if you see a supposed violation, you can contact IICRC directly at cf-tmissues@iicrc.org.

The IICRC also works with the American Risk Management Resources Network, LLC to provide customized insurance packages for IICRC Certified Firms. More information is available at http://www.armr.net/IICRC.html.

As the IICRC evolves as an organization, emphasis will continue to be placed on promoting IICRC Certified Firms via online channels, partnerships, government involvement and other areas of promotion. Want to become an IICRC Certified Firm? Download the application at http://www.iicrc.org/firmfaq.shtml.