ServiceMaster Restore: Restoring Confidence Through Decades of Disaster Recovery Expertise

Founded in 1929 by Marion E. Wade in Chicago, Illinois, ServiceMaster began as a modest moth-proofing business. Over the decades, it evolved into a diversified service provider and became one of the first companies in the U.S. to adopt franchising in 1952.

Today, ServiceMaster Restore operates as a core brand under the ServiceMaster Brands umbrella and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

ServiceMaster Restore specializes in disaster restoration services for both residential and commercial properties. Its offerings include water and fire damage restoration, mold remediation, storm damage repair, and specialty cleaning.

With over 2,000 franchise locations worldwide, the brand has established a reputation for helping communities recover quickly and professionally from unexpected emergencies.

Training

ServiceMaster Restore offers a structured training framework for its franchisees to ensure operational excellence and alignment with brand standards:

1. Initial AOS Training
   The primary program, known as the Academy of Service (AOS Training), is mandatory for up to two designated trainees per franchise. It may include classroom, on-the-job, and virtual components. Completion is required within a specified time frame and before the franchise opening.
2. Additional Training
   The franchisor provides other training programs as it deems necessary for franchisees, managers, or staff. These may come with additional fees and are aimed at enhancing specific operational areas.
3. Ongoing Training Requirements
   Every year, franchisees must attend at least two seminars, workshops, or meetings offered by the franchisor to stay updated with system changes. These events are mandatory and must be self-funded by the franchisee.
4. Training for New Managers or Replacements
   Any new or replacement managers must also complete AOS Training. Additional fees may apply if trainees exceed the initial two or require repeat training.
5. Operations Manual and Intranet Access
   Franchisees receive access to ServiceMaster’s intranet, which includes the Operations Manual and training materials for ongoing learning and compliance.

Territory Protection

ServiceMaster Restore does not offer exclusive territorial protection to its franchisees. Although each franchise is assigned a designated territory where they are expected to operate and market, the franchisor retains the right to allow other businesses, including affiliates, to operate in any area, even within the same geographic market.

Franchisees are also explicitly told that they may face competition from other franchisees, company-owned businesses, or other distribution channels. Franchisees are allowed to perform services outside their assigned territory if the customer initiates the request or if the marketing aligns with a pre-approved plan.

However, they must seek prior approval to relocate within their territory and do not receive preferential rights for additional units. Essentially, the franchisor maintains broad flexibility to authorize operations that may compete directly or indirectly with an existing franchise location.