The Cleaning Authority: Leading the Way in Residential Cleaning Services

Established in 1977 in the Baltimore-Washington D.C. metro area, The Cleaning Authority quickly became one of the first companies in its region to offer comprehensive residential cleaning services. Today, it is recognized as a leading franchise across the United States and Canada.

Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, The Cleaning Authority launched its franchising program in 1996. Since then, it has grown steadily, now boasting more than 208 locations throughout North America.

The brand specializes in thorough home cleaning using its unique Detail-Clean Rotation System, designed to deliver consistent, high-quality results with each visit.

A major factor behind The Cleaning Authority’s success is its strong support for franchise owners, offering in-depth training, advanced technology tools, and strategic marketing initiatives to help drive growth and maintain customer loyalty.

Training

The Cleaning Authority offers several training programs to prepare franchisees for successful business operations. Here are the programs provided:

1. Initial Training Program
   The Cleaning Authority requires the Key Person and any designated Owners to attend and successfully complete a pre-opening training program. This program typically lasts 10 business days and is conducted at the franchisor's headquarters, covering leadership, operations, and service delivery topics.
2. Additional and Optional Training
   After opening, The Cleaning Authority provides access to additional required and optional training programs. These programs may be delivered in person, by video, online, or through other methods, focusing on updates to operations, services, or technology.
3. Employee Training
   Franchisees are responsible for training all employees of the franchised business, although The Cleaning Authority provides training modules, guidelines, and access to online resources to support this responsibility.
4. Brand Conferences and Conventions
   Franchisees' designated representatives must attend annual conventions and regional conferences. Attendance at these events is mandatory, and franchisees bear all associated travel and accommodation costs.
5. Site Training for Purchasers of Existing Franchises
   If a franchisee purchases an existing Cleaning Authority location, they must complete a 3-day immersive training session at a designated Site Training Facility to learn daily operations and system standards.

Territory Protection

The Cleaning Authority grants franchisees a protected territory during the term of the Franchise Agreement, provided they stay in compliance. Within this territory, the franchisor will not open another Cleaning Authority location or authorize others to operate under the brand. The territory is defined by zip codes and is based on a specific number of designated households.

However, The Cleaning Authority reserves the right to advertise, recruit employees, and service national accounts within a franchisee’s territory. Franchisees do not have rights of first refusal for neighboring areas, and territories may be reconfigured upon renewal. While protection exists against direct brand competition, full market exclusivity is not guaranteed.