For Consumers

• Keep Fall Allergies at Bay

  In a recent survey by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, more than 50 percent of homes had at least six detectable allergens present. To keep your allergies at bay, schedule a cleaning with a cleantrust professional.

• Protecting Your Carpet from Man's Best Friend

  The US is home to approximately 68 million dog owners and 73 million cat owners, which equals thousands of tiny “accidents” on carpets that require quick cleanup to remove bacteria and odor. For tips on proper cleanup, new and old homeowners alike can seek advice from a cleantrust professional.

• Storm Damage

  Whether insured or not, it is important for property owners to document damage with photographs or video, and immediately, to begin loss mitigation procedures themselves; or hire a qualified contractor to do this on their behalf.

At the IICRC, your experts are known as cleantrust. With the cleantrust logo and patches, IICRC technicians can be easily recognized by these symbols of technical proficiency and high ethical standards.

Before hiring anyone confirm that they are trained by the cleantrust, an IICRC program, in the type of work to be performed and ask for credentials. Be sure to informally interview the company representative or technician, obtain a written estimate of the work to be completed, and receive a written contract or invoice confirming the total price along with any statements or guarantees.