Franchises make up more than 10 percent of U.S. employer businesses in 295 industries, states the2007 Economic Census Franchise Report, which surveyed 4.3 million companies. It is the first detailed report from the U.S. Census Bureau on this segment of the U.S. economy, the results of which were released last September. The next economic survey will be conducted in 2012.
Of the 92,572 plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractor establishments the Census Bureau counted in 2007, 1,627 of them were franchise businesses. Of those 1,627 businesses, franchisees owned 1,296, took in revenues of $1.7 billion and employed 12,815 workers.
The International Franchise Association, in its2011 Franchise Business Economic Outlook, predicts that 2011 will see a 2.5 percent increase in all franchise establishments, which will create more jobs.
For the nearly 91,000 PHC companies not affiliated with a franchise, partnering with an affinity group and/or association listed on the following pages can help put you on a level playing field with your franchise bretheren. These groups provide education and training on a variety of business topics to keep you focused on making your business profitable. Do your homework to find the best fit for your business philosophy.
However, if you’ve decided that the franchise route is for you, the companies listed here will help you with a lucrative career or exit strategy.
[Editor’s note: Rescue Rooter and Service Experts are not listed as all their locations are company-owned and franchises are not available.]
PHCP Franchises
1-800-Plumber
Founded:In 2009.Markets to:Plumbing/heating/cooling contractors and entrepreneurs looking for a best practices home services model.
Franchisee qualities:Entrepreneurs and contractors who desire to build a significant asset. Owners need to be committed to customer service through technology, innovation and individual attention. Specifically designed for owners looking for customized systems in pricing, marketing, training and technology for their unique market to allow them to spend their time growing their business.
Restrictions:Yes.
Costs/fees:Dependent on market size and approval.
Why you should join:We have transformed the home services industry by taking the most desired brand and phone number in the industry and creating a best-practices model. Contractors will now own the rights to the name and number, 1-800-PLUMBER, for their unique market. Overhead costs can be reduced by our 24/7/365 service center, which offers constant contact with customers through direct mail and outbound calling.
The creation of the t-Tab has revolutionized the industry with its real-time interaction between the service center and technicians. This allows for real-time paperless accounting in the customer’s home, which nearly eliminates back-office invoicing and payroll. Each technician will offer in-home computer presentations and a real-time price guide that can be updated in minutes to guard profit margins.
Contact:Call 1-800-PLUMBER (800/758-6237) or 281/492-3051, emailfranchiseinfo@1800Plumber.com, or visitwww.1800plumber.com.
Ace Duraflo Systems
Founded:In the 1990s. ACE DuraFlo began offering in-place pipe restoration system franchises in 2001.Number of operations:55 franchisees in North America and Europe. Of those, seven are corporate-owned.
Markets to:Plumbing contractors and leak detection firms.
Franchisee qualities:Those who want to gain a competitive advantage in their market and increase their bottom line by offering their customers a choice when it comes to repairing small-diameter piping systems.
Restrictions:Yes; based on population.
Costs/fees:Initial investment is as low as $36,190. Investment varies based on equipment package and size of territory. There are ongoing fees.
Why you should join:ACE DuraFlo Systems’ ePIPE Advantage Program is designed to provide a “Local Competitive Edge” through specially designed equipment, comprehensive training, marketing materials, 24/7 field support, communication through Internet and Intranet, as well as amulti-patented-protected technology.
Contact: Derek Cherryatdcherry@aceduraflo.com, 800/359-6369 for a free information kit or visitwww.epipeinfo.com.
Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning
Founded:In 1992. Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning is a global franchise organization providing installation, maintenance and repair of HVAC and indoor air quality systems. It is a subsidiary of The Dwyer Group.Number of operations:There are more than 180 locations in North America and all are locally owned and operated.
Markets to:Heating, air-conditioning and ventilation contractors.
Franchisee qualities:Aire Serv franchisees must possess a strong work ethic along with the willingness to learn and apply proven, successful business systems.
Restrictions:Yes; Aire Serv restricts how many franchises are in a territory/region.
Costs/fees:Initial investment is $64,300 to $183,900. The investment varies due to size of territory and population that a franchisee purchases. There are ongoing fees.
Why you should join:Franchise owners receive management, marketing, sales and start-up training. They also benefit from national conferences, regional training and ongoing telephone and on-location support.
Contact: Krystal Humphrey, lead development, or Director of Franchise DevelopmentBruce Knudson. 800/583-2662; Fax: 800/209-7621;AireServFranchise@dwyergroup.com;www.leadingtheserviceindustry.com.
American Leak Detection
Founded:In 1974, for the purpose of providing nondestructive detection of concealed water, sewer and other leaks. Franchising of American Leak Detection began in 1984.Number of operations:136 franchisee locations in the United States and 15 locations in seven countries. Five are corporate-owned.
Franchisee qualities:Entrepreneurs who are strong leaders with sales, marketing and people skills, and are results-oriented. The top “Team Members” are those who want to run their own businesses while following a proven system, and receive satisfaction knowing they have helped their customers and the environment.
Restrictions:Yes; every territory is defined and protected.
Costs/fees:The initial franchise fee is between $29,500 and $80,000. The overall investment ranges from $83,255 to $233,500.
Other costs include $4,500-$6,000 for six weeks training (travel and living expenses are additional).
Royalties are paid on monthly adjusted gross sales as follows: 10 percent on the first $5,000; 9 percent on the next $5,000; and 8 percent thereafter. When annual adjusted gross sales reaches $750,000 in the calendar year, the rate is 6 percent.
American Leak Detection participates in the International Franchise Association’s MinorityFran and VetFran programs, which provide a discount in initial fees to U.S. veterans who meet the requirements of the program.
Why you should join:The training program includes: training on proprietary equipment in a variety of settings; marketing and business management tools and techniques; an operations manual; an Intranet site; lead-generation program; and access to an individual, customized Web page.
Support systems include: refresher courses through American Leak University; a network of support staff and franchisees to answer questions; quarterly newsletters; and an annual convention.
Contact: Judy Howard, director of franchise operations, 800/755-6697,jhoward@americanleakdetection.com.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Founded:In 2001. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is Clockwork Home Services’ nationally branded franchise in the plumbing market.Number of operations:As of January 2011, there were more than 200 franchises across the United States. Of these, 12 are company-owned.
Markets to:Ambitious residential contractors and business owners seeking to grow their companies and dominate their markets by providing trustworthy plumbers who will show up on time.
Franchisee qualities:Contractors who value professionalism, punctuality and consider customer satisfaction their No. 1 priority. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing contractors recognize the importance of their customers’ time and go to great lengths to make sure service, replacement and repairs are done right the first time with courtesy, convenience, cleanliness and competence.
Restrictions:Yes; franchisees are given exclusivity in a defined territory.
Costs/fees:Contractors must be able to qualify both financially and ethically. There is an initial investment, which varies according to the population of the territory, and ongoing fees based on sales volume.
Why you should join:The Benjamin Franklin franchise offers residential service plumbers the opportunity to compete with industry consolidators and franchised drain cleaners; plus, it provides them with an appropriate exit strategy.
Franchisees have access to company-wide programs and training opportunities provided by Clockwork Home Services and its parent company, Direct Energy: wholesale distributor Buy Max provides significant discounts on private-label manufacturing equipment; the Success Academy training program helps improve technical service with respect to the customer’s home, budget and time; help with negotiating advertising contracts with marketing suppliers; and PhoneFacts evaluations, a telephone tracking program.
Contact: John Henkelsat 866/574-7431 to request information or visitwww.thesuccessfulcontractor.com.
Linc Network
Founded:In 1979, the Linc Service Network provides energy solutions to commercial building owners worldwide. Linc Network is the franchisor of the Linc System, a business format for operating a commercial HVAC service business.Number of operations:156; 24 are company-owned.
Markets to:Independently owned mechanical contractors looking to specialize in preventative maintenance for the commercial HVAC industry.
Franchisee qualities:To be recognized as leading contractors in their marketplaces; reputation for quality and ethical standards; the desire to grow their service business; the willingness to adhere to a business format that has proven to be successful for more than 30 years; the aspiration to expand their overall operations by increasing the amount of maintenance and project work they perform for customers.
Restrictions:Yes; Linc Service contractors each purchase the franchise rights to a specific territory. In some cases, more than one Linc Service contractor may purchase the rights to a given area.
Costs/fees:The franchise fee is $65,000. Royalty fees are charged by a schedule based on service revenue. Some additional fees for training and recruiting are charged.
Why you should join:Linc Service contractors have: access to quality tools and training; chances to share best practices with top professionals in the HVAC industry; membership in an organization that’s expanding its scope and service offerings on a worldwide level.
Contact:For ownership and general inquiries, contact COOBert Kendall, 724/873-2948,Bert.Kendall@thelincgroup.com.
Mr. Rooter
Founded:Franchising began in the 1970s. Mr Rooter is a subsidiary of The Dwyer Group Inc., providing plumbing installation and repair.Number of operations:About 260 franchises in the United States and Canada, and about 100 in other foreign countries. None of the franchises are company-owned.
Markets to:Plumbing contractors (new construction and service) and mechanical contractors.
Franchisee qualities:Customer-centric business people who want to grow their businesses through positive customer experiences and disciplined business systems.
Restrictions:Yes; Mr. Rooter determines how many franchisees may be in an area based on population.
Costs/fees:Total investment, including franchise fees of $26,000 per 100,000 population, ranges from $54,950 to $145,250.
Why you should join:Mr. Rooter provides systems for approaching the customer; managing the financial end of your business; as well as consulting and coaching in areas of operations and personnel management. Mr. Rooter also works with each of its franchisees on a regular basis to help set and achieve both personal and professional goals.
Contact:Phone: 800/298-6855; Fax: 800/209-7621; Email:MrRooterFranchise@dwyergroup.com; Website:www.mrrooterfranchise.com.
Mr. Waterheater
Founded:In 1981; franchising began in 2007. Mr. Waterheater is an emergency response specialty plumbing business that can be added to a full-service plumbing or HVAC business.Number of operations:N/A
Markets to:Plumbing and HVAC contractors.
Franchisee qualities:Contractors devoted to growing a business through marketing, and providing great service and pricing to customers.
Restrictions:Yes; Protected territories are 50,000 to 100,000 households.
Costs/fees:The initial franchise fee is $9,900 and a territory fee of 25 cents per household. Total investment ranges from $54,325 to $150,995. The royalty rate is 5 percent of sales.
Why you should join:Mr. Waterheater is a profitable, simple-to-operate, recession-resistant niche business. Franchisees are provided all the tools to build a great business - a proven marketing program; back-office solutions; group purchasing power; and ongoing support. Franchisees will be able to build equity, grow the business and sell to other qualified professionals as an exit strategy.
Contact:Call 866/misterw or visitwww.mrwaterheater.com/franchise_info.asp.
One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
Founded:In 2003; One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning is Clockwork Home Services’ nationally branded franchise in the HVAC market.Number of operations:As of January 2011, there were more than 220 One Hour franchises across the United States and five in Canada. Of these, 45 are company-owned.
Markets to:Residential contractors and business owners who are interested in accelerating their growth and revenue through the implementation of the company’s professional business practices, systems, high ethical standards and dedication to delivering outstanding customer service.
Franchisee qualities:Contractors who value professionalism, highly ethical business practices, punctuality and who consider an outstanding customer experience their top priority. One Hour contractors recognize the importance of the customer’s time and go to great lengths to make sure service, replacement and repairs are done right the first time.
Restrictions:Yes; One Hour gives each of its franchisees exclusivity in a defined territory.
Costs/fees:Contractors must be able to qualify both financially and ethically. There is an initial investment, which varies according to the population of the territory, and ongoing fees based on sales volume.
Why you should join:One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning franchisees have the following available to them: access to state-of-the-art, private-label equipment at affordable prices through the company’s wholesale distributor BuyMax; business and customer-service training programs through Clockwork University; technical training through Clockwork’s Success Academy; tools and training on ways to generate greater revenue more efficiently; access to business process software applications; and marketing, communications and branding solutions. It also provides an appropriate exit strategy.
Contact: John Henkelsat 866/574-7431 to request information or visitwww.thesuccessfulcontractor.com.
Plumbing Doctor
Founded:In 1995 by Michael Farias, a plumbing contractor for more than 30 years. Plumbing Doctor began offering franchises in 2007. The goal is to offer its franchise system to other plumbing contractors in small- and mid-sized markets, and assist them in growing their small operations into larger, successful businesses.Number of operations:Four; two are company-owned.
Markets to:Service and repair plumbing contractors in secondary markets. The company is currently targeting 15 markets in northern and central California and is accepting applications for other markets on a case-by-case basis.
Franchisee qualities:Licensed plumbing contractors who want to start their own business, or currently own a small- to mid-sized company and want to grow it. If a contractor has the technical skills, Plumbing Doctor can give him the business tools and operating systems to help him succeed.
Restrictions:Yes. Plumbing Doctor’s territories are based on Yellow Pages distribution markets (one franchise per market).
Costs/fees:Franchise fee is $20,000. There are additional costs, such as purchasing tools and insurance, but none of the fees go to the company. It does not dictate where franchisees have to purchase goods and services. The estimated cost of the franchise is $24,500 to $59,300.
Why you should join:Plumbing Doctor provides a comprehensive operating system that has been proven to help establish and grow service and repair plumbing businesses. It has developed a successful customer retention program and provides a memorable brand name, federally protected trademarks and an exclusive territory.
There is also an operations manual that describes the complete operating system for all aspects of the business - office management training; advertising plans complete with printable, ready-to-use, full-color ads; press releases and marketing pieces; a variety of ready-to-use forms and contracts; sales pieces for all aspects of the business from snaking a sewer line to selling a trenchless sewer replacement; and a pricing system which includes full-color pricing books.
Franchisees receive three full days of training as well as ongoing assistance and DVDs of the training to keep.
Contact: Bethany Helmboldt, director of marketing and development, 916/915-3740,bethany@plumbingmd.com,www.fastaidsuccess.com.
Rooter-Man
Founded:In 1970; began franchising in 1981.Number of operations:484.
Markets to:Contractors and business owners looking for an opportunity to brand their business and increase their revenue and profits in the plumbing, drain and sewer cleaning business.
Restrictions:Select territories are available.
Costs/fees:Franchise fee is $3,975 per 125,000 population; ongoing royalty is not a percentage of sales but a flat monthly fee of $125 per 125,000 population. Total investment in the business equipment is about $25,600 to $46,800, depending on size of operation.
Why you should join:Low overhead; high return; optimized website with online marketing plan; on-the-job training, both technical and management; marketing, bookkeeping and telephone sales training; employee incentive plans; step-by-step business plan to brand your business.
Contact:Visitwww.rooterman.comor call 800/700-8062.
Roto-Rooter
Founded:In 1935 by Samuel Blanc. The Roto-Rooter U.S. independent franchise system is full (international franchise opportunities are still available), but Roto-Rooter continues to partner with independent contractors in various markets.Number of operations:51 company-owned branches, 500 independently owned franchises and 64 independent contractors (hybrid partnership between company and contractor).
Contractor qualities:Independent contractors should be ambitious, innovative and technically competent with good management skills and a desire to grow the business. He or she must possess or be willing to obtain a plumbing license, or the contractor must employ a licensed plumber.
Restrictions:Independent contractor territories are owned by Roto-Rooter and serve markets with population sizes of 200,000 to more than 1,000,000 people.
Costs/fees:Through a licensing agreement, Roto-Rooter contracts with an individual to run a Roto-Rooter business within a select territory.
Why you should join:Established customer and sales base; paid advertising program; relocation opportunities; support of a national company; business training; equipment; management, accounting and marketing support. The independent contractor keeps a portion of labor sales plus 100 percent of all parts and consumer product sales. After expenses, yearly income ranges between 8 percent and 10 percent of customer sales.
Contact:Call 800/780-3292 or emailcontractorrecruiting@rrsc.com.
PHCP Affinity Groups
AirTime 500
Founded:In 2000. Part of the Success Group International family, AirTime 500 provides
independent HVAC contractors with management direction, buying power and
training.Number of members:More than 325 members.
Markets to:HVAC contractors seeking a competitive advantage who want to provide superior service to homeowners and profit from it.
Member qualities:AirTime 500 members must be driven to succeed. They are committed to providing their customers with unparalleled service, build wealth for themselves and their employees, and operate their businesses in a highly ethical manner.
Restrictions:Yes; membership with AirTime 500 is restricted in order to ensure contractors have a competitive edge in their respective markets.
Dues/fees:An initial membership investment gives members access to the Instafix system and franchise-level tools: million-dollar turnkey ad campaigns; world-class trainers; and a team of negotiators working daily to boost members’ purchasing power. A minimal membership fee provides access to a team of industry experts for consultation.
Why you should join:AirTime has the tools, systems and knowledge to help HVAC contractors turn around a struggling company or expand an already successful one. Contractors can make more money and spend more time with their families.
Contact:Contractors are urged to attend a no-cost Profit Day seminar; call 800/483-8190 or visitwww.airtime500.com.
Construction Contractors' Alliance
Founded:In 1998. An enhanced service group of the PHCC-National Association, the Construction Contractors’ Alliance provides contractors with a means to find solutions to the specific issues new construction contractors face.Number of members:Membership averages 25 members.
Markets to:CCA serves PHCC’s plumbing and mechanical contractors specializing in residential, industrial, commercial and institutional new construction.
Member qualities:Professional, forward-thinking business owners who have an entrepreneurial approach to business.
Restrictions:There are no territorial restrictions, but prospective members must belong to PHCC.
Dues/fees:$2,500 to $5,000 per year.
Why you should join:To enhance the profitability and professionalism of their business through education and networking opportunities. CCA’s key focus areas are workforce issues, construction methods, business practices, networking/peer groups, industry/business evolution, and education and personal growth.
Membership benefits include: two CCA Alliance Meetings each year; specialized meetings for CCA employees (e.g., controllers and purchasing agents); CCA Connect email communication with members; peer groups; Contractor Spotlights (“virtual tours” of member companies); “Hot Topic” contractor roundtables; and a Forms Notebook.
Contact: Charlotte Perhamat 800/533-7694,perham@naphcc.org. For general inquiries, visitwww.phccweb.org/cca.
Mechanical Service Contractors of America
Founded:In 1975. The Mechanical Service Contractors of America is a subsidiary of the Mechanical Contractors Association of America.Number of members:More than 1,200 members.
Markets to:Union mechanical service contractors.
Member qualities:Interested in learning about new ways to increase productivity and profitability.
Restrictions:Restricted to union mechanical service contractors.
Dues/fees:MSCA’s dues are .06 cents per manhour, with a minimum of $720 and a maximum of $15,000. Members who belong to both MCAA and MSCA make only one minimum dues payment.
Why you should join:MSCA provides education, marketing and labor/management services to assure its HVACR contractor members deliver quality performance, value and expertise for all building system needs. MSCA’s contractor qualifications program, MSCA STAR, recognizes contractors that have met the highest standards of excellence in the industry and employ highly-skilled UA STAR-certified technicians.
Contact:For more information, visitwww.msca.org. For membership inquiries, contactJan Letowat 301/869-5800 orjletow@mcaa.org. For general inquiries, contactBarbara Dolimat 301/869-5800 orbdolim@mcaa.org.
Nexstar Network
Founded:In 1992. Formerly Contractors 2000, Nexstar is a business development and best practices organization for the plumbing, HVAC and electrical home service industry.Number of members:400 member companies across the continent.
Markets to:Independent plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical residential service providers.
Member qualities:Dedicated to being “simply the best” in customer service, profitability and employee satisfaction. Attracts members with a desire to grow their business, but know that they need and want help. They practice business ethics and best practices, and are willing to adhere to the organization’s code of ethics.
Restrictions:Yes; Membership is allocated by market areas, so the only restriction is market availability.
Dues/fees:There are several levels of membership, each having a range of dues and fees appropriate to individual needs.
Why you should join:Nexstar helps business owners get rapid results guided by incredible peer connections, experienced coaches and surefire systems. Nexstar coaches have more than a century of experience and have walked in the shoes of the people they serve. Nexstar systems are proven to increase revenues and increase satisfaction among the customers their members serve. Members share experience, insight and best practices. Nexstar understands the importance of the quick and long-term return on investment. They attract members by offering better ways and earn loyalty by delivering measurable results.
Contact: Lisa SchardtorBryan Martinat 888/240.STAR orinfo@nexstarnetwork.com, or visitwww.nexstarnetwork.com.
Plumbers' Success International
Founded:In 1999. Part of the Success Group International family, Plumbers’ Success International provides independent plumbing contractors with management direction, buying power and training.Number of members:More than 230 members.
Markets to:Plumbers seeking a competitive advantage who want to provide superior service to homeowners and profit from it.
Member qualities:Must be driven to succeed. They want to provide their customers with unparalleled service, build wealth for themselves and their employees, and operate their businesses in a highly ethical manner.
Restrictions:Yes; to ensure members have a competitive edge in their respective markets.
Dues/fees:An initial membership investment gives members access to the Profit Success System and franchise-level tools: million-dollar ad campaigns; world-class training; and a team of negotiators working daily to boost members’ purchasing power. A minimal membership fee provides access to a team of industry experts for consultation.
Why you should join:PSI has the tools, systems and knowledge to help HVAC contractors turn around a struggling company or expand an already successful one. Contractors can make more money and spend more time with their families.
Contact:Contractors are urged to attend a no-cost Profit Day seminar; call 800/419-6551 or visitwww.plumberssuccess.com.
Plumbing Contractors of America
Founded:In 1982. Officially became the Plumbing Contractors of America in 2000, a subsidiary association within the Mechanical Contractors Association of America.Number of members:Every member of MCAA is automatically a member of PCA without separate dues.
Markets to:Union-affiliated plumbing contractors.
Member qualities:Prospective members must be interested in education, new technology and optimizing their companies.
Restrictions:General membership is restricted to union-affiliated plumbing contractors. Potential members who do not fit into this category may be eligible to join as associate members.
Dues/fees:Part of MCAA’s dues; based on manhours.
Why you should join:PCA provides the highest level of education for contractors; labor representation through an open dialogue with the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada; and research for industry technology, techniques and issues.
Contact: Sean McGuire, LEED AP, director of industry programs,smcguire@mcaa.org.
Quality Service Contractors
Founded:In 1994 by a group of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors - National Association members wanting a group within PHCC to provide tools and member networking to improve their businesses not necessarily found through PHCC.Number of members:224.
Markets to:Any residential or light commercial plumbing-heating-cooling service and repair contractor looking for ways to improve productivity and profitability while growing both professionally and personally.
Member qualities:Willing to participate and make changes based on what their particular needs are. The group wants members with the desire to be the “best of the best” in the industry.
Restrictions:None; anyone can be a member, even multiple contractors from any area. QSC members also must be members of PHCC.
Dues/fees:The 2011 QSC investment is $3,742 for 12 months. This may be broken down into monthly payments.
Why you should join:QSC has Power Meetings, held twice yearly, to help members learn new techniques to maximize the profitability and productivity of their companies, and to refocus and get recharged. QSC employs a business coach, and is also heightening its focus on Internet technology and developing Web-based member services, such as its online Customer Service Training and biweekly Technician Training. The group also is continuing to develop traveling programs - Business Operations & Systems Success seminar, Sales Boot Camp and Total Opportunity Performance Systems technician training program.
Contact:QSC vice president and COOCharlie Wallace, 800/533-7694,www.qsc-phcc.org.
Service Roundtable
Founded:In 2002. The Service Roundtable was formed to offer contractors an affordable business support alternative to existing alliances, which can be expensive and, due to territorial exclusivities, often unavailable.Number of members:More than 2,500 people.
Markets to:Residential and light commercial plumbing contractors, HVAC service and installation contractors, solar contractors and electrical contractors.
Member qualities:Contractors who want to grow and improve, who are seeking to build legacy companies that will live on after present ownership exits the business.
Restrictions:None; any plumbing, HVAC, solar or electrical company can join.
Dues/fees:$50 per month for plumbing; $75 for any two industries together together. Membership is monthly.
Why you should join:The Service Roundtable helps contractors build the top line and drive more profit to the bottom line, in less time. Contractors get all the business tools and resources necessary for success at their desktop - without hype, major expense, lectures, costly mandatory meetings and “without Kool-Aid.”
Contact:Visitwww.ServiceRoundtable.comto learn more. For membership inquiries, contactLiz Patrickby email atLiz@ServiceRoundtable.com, 877/262-3341.
The Unified Group
Founded:In 1998 by a small group of independent commercial HVAC contractors in response to the consolidation movement affecting the industry at the time.Number of members:56.
Markets to:Top-quality independent, commercial and industrial contractors around the country. The group has a mix of small and large companies, both union and nonunion members.
Member qualities:Contractors that are well-rounded and can provide multiple services; have a strong belief in constantly improving and learning; a real desire to share with and learn from other contractors; and believe in ongoing training. Participation is key to the group.
Restrictions:Yes; territories are geographically exclusive. The territory depends on the member company and is typically one in which the member can reach its customers within 1 1/2 to 2 hours. This varies by the size of the member and the density of the territory.
Dues/fees:n/a
Why you should join:The Unified Group offers several training programs per year that are industry-specific. The members select the topics and the sessions are very hands-on.
The group negotiates purchasing partnerships with select vendors to allow its members to purchase more effectively. Not only do members receive discounted pricing or rebates, vendor partners also provide training and additional customer support.
Unified Group members use each other to provide service to their customers regionally and nationally. And members have the opportunity to learn best practices from each other by sharing information.
Contact: Allison Rodgersat 888/714-5990,rodgersa@theunifiedgroup.com, for all inquiries. Web address iswww.theunifiedgroup.com. An informational video can be viewed atwww.youtube.com/watch?v=horTg782F5A.
Union-Affiliated Contractors
Founded:In 1995 to address the specific needs of signatory contractors within PHCC.Number of members:281.
Markets to:Union plumbing and mechanical contractors.
Restrictions:The only restriction is that prospective members must employ union plumbers and pipefitters, and belong to PHCC.
Dues/fees:$366 per year.
Why you should join:UAC pursues a national agenda via direct, high-level links to the United Association. The group also: negotiates national labor agreements; assists local affiliates in addressing labor issues; provides top speakers to discuss the key issues facing the industry; identifies opportunities for helping contractors improve market share and profitability; and, when appropriate, UAC works with other industry organizations to establish shared positions and implement the appropriate responses.
The UAC also offers an annual Unity Conference that is specifically geared to signatory PHC contractors, labor leaders, association executives and key industry suppliers. In addition to high-level networking, the Unity Conference 2011 program delivers sessions designed to help generate business and operate more effectively during this challenging economic environment.
Contact:UAC Executive DirectorRodney Jones, 888/997-0535,jones@naphcc.org.
PHCP Associations
Mechanical Contractors Association of America
Founded:In 1889. MCAA was then called the National Association of Master Steam and Hot
Water Fitters. In 1918, the leadership changed the name to Heating and Piping
Contractors National Association. With the advent of air conditioning, the
leadership in 1933 renamed the organization The Heating, Piping And Air
Conditioning Contractors National Association. Finally, in May 1955, the
organization became known as the Mechanical Contractors Association Of America
Inc., its fourth and, to-date, final identity.
Additional historical information
may be found atwww.mcaa.org/news/AR1999MCAA.pdf.Number of members:2,300 members in total, including members who work in mechanical construction and service, plumbing, and pipe welding.
Markets to:Primary market is union mechanical construction contractors. MCAA also markets to union mechanical service contractors through its Mechanical Service Contractors of America subsidiary, to union plumbing contractors through its Plumbing Contractors of America subsidiary, to union pipe welding contractors through its National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau subsidiary, and to industry manufacturers and suppliers through its Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
MCAA’s foundation, the Mechanical Contracting Education & Research Foundation, markets to the industry as a whole.
Member qualities:Interested in learning about new ways to increase productivity and profitability. Some topics that have been embraced by MCAA members are technology, BIM, sustainable construction and strategic estimating.
Restrictions:General membership is restricted to union mechanical construction, service, plumbing and pipe welding contractors, and industry manufacturers and suppliers. Potential members who do not fit into one of those categories may be eligible to join as associate members.
Dues/fees:Dues are .06 cents per manhour, with a minimum of $720 and a maximum of $15,000. These dues include membership in the PCA. Members who belong to both MCAA and MSCA make only one minimum dues payment, which applies to both organizations.
Why you should join:MCAA is the “education association,” and it shows in its broad range of educational programs; excellent educational resources in the form of books, CDs/DVDs and training materials; and its drive to always exceed members’ expectations.
Contact:For membership inquiries, contactJan Letowat 301/869-5800,jletow@mcaa.org. For general inquiries, contactAdrienne Breedloveat 301/869-5800,mcaainfo@mcaa.org.
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors - National Association
Founded:In 1883. Since then, the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors - National Association has been the leader in promotion, advancement, education and training.PHCC’s notable achievements include: establishing a framework for the industry’s first apprenticeship system; championing the cause of safe, adequate sanitation to state legislatures; encouraging the invention of better plumbing appliances and fixtures; and spearheading education programs to keep pace with technological change.
Number of members:More than 3,500 contractor members.
Markets to:Primarily to both open and union shop contractors who work in the residential, commercial, new construction, industrial and service and repair industry segments.
Member qualities:Professional plumbing-heating-cooling contractors who are interested in taking their business and industry to the next level.
Restrictions:None.
Dues/fees:The annual national membership dues amount is $460. Because PHCC is a federation system, state and local dues also of varying amounts may be required when a chapter exists in a member’s area.
Why you should join:PHCC members have access to exclusive business-building benefits such as: business and technical “know how” to be successful in an increasingly competitive market, with more than 250 education and training options, and online resources, available to them; resources to build a quality workforce for their company and the industry with PHCC’s apprenticeship and journeyman training, scholarships and career promotional material; proactive legislative and regulatory initiatives that protect contractors’ interests on the national, state and local levels; and regular online and print periodicals that keep members up-to-date on industry news, technical breakthroughs and business solutions.
Membership also includes: an annual convention (this year’s CONNECT 2011 is Sept. 21-24 in Minneapolis -www.phccweb.org/connect) featuring networking, education and business-building resources; exclusive affiliation with Partners for Professionalism’s co-branded products that include enhanced features, benefits and warranties to help better serve customers; and members-only arrangements with PHCC’s Preferred Service Providers for credit card processing, uniforms, business forms, websites, marketing services, etc.
Contact:For membership inquiries, call 800/533-7694. For general inquiries, visitwww.phccweb.org.
Radiant Professionals Alliance
Founded:In 1994. The Radiant Professionals Alliance is an international group of manufacturers, distributors, designers, dealers and installers of radiant panel heating and cooling systems and components. Its purpose is to facilitate communication and cooperation among those interested in the advancement of the radiant panel heating and cooling industry primarily in North America.Number of members:Approximately 800.
Markets to:Mechanical contractors, plumbing contractors, HVAC contractors and building contractors, as well as the public and policy makers.
Member qualities:An interest in furthering the technology and acceptance of radiant heating and cooling.
Restrictions:None.
Dues/fees:Contractor - Silver: $300 per year; Contractor - Gold: $500 per year.
Why you should join:Members become part of a growing network of radiant panel experts through the RadNet Bulletin Board; the national conference; a membership directory, CD and online; and local chapters.
Members also receive industry surveys, market statistics, research studies and a monthly newsletter to keep up with what is going on in the organization and the industry.
As well as:Radiant Living Magazine, which supports the trade and keeps the industry in touch; theRadiant Flooring Guide, with information for your and your customers on the best flooring products to go over under-floor radiant heat; a consumer website that informs the public and directs them to you; a lead generation service; and marketing materials.
Members can improve the quality of installations through education and instruction: attend a full range of schools on radiant heating and cooling or sponsor a school in your location; study and attend live or recorded courses over the Internet at member prices; get a member discount on complete kits that provide everything you need to complete your radiant studies at home; member discounts are available on technical, marketing and business books, tapes and recordings; guidelines on radiant techniques; and technical assistance by the RPA technical staff.
Contact: Call 315/303-4735 or visit www.radiantpanelassociation.org
