Have you ever wondered what it takes to unite some of the most in-demand home service businesses under one powerful umbrella? Imagine a company that strategically acquires, nurtures, and grows multiple service-oriented brands, each poised for success. Enter Authority Brands, a Columbia, Maryland-based parent company that has been changing the face of home services since 2017. With an impressive collection of franchises operating over 1,900 locations across the United States and around the globe, this thriving business is a testament to innovation, resilience, and a relentless commitment to supporting franchise owners.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the story behind this brand’s formation, the types of services it champions, and a small selection of the individual franchises powering its mission. If you’re searching for insights on a company that has built its reputation by delivering essential home service solutions, read on for a deep dive into how this visionary organization continually raises the bar.

A Legacy Built on Essential Services.

The Spark of a New Beginning.

Picture the home services industry before 2017, a time when numerous specialized brands operated independently. Each company excelled in its niche, whether it was pest control, swimming pool maintenance, or HVAC repair. While there was no shortage of expertise, few organizations had unified these various services under one well-structured platform. That all changed with a pivotal moment in September 2017, when Apax Partners acquired The Cleaning Authority. This acquisition set the stage for a grand vision: to build a cohesive family of home service franchises that could offer synergy, resources, and a proven track record of success.

The formation of Authority Brands quickly followed, with its first major acquisition being Homewatch CareGivers, which provided early proof of the company’s expanding reach. In just a few months, Authority Brands added America’s Swimming Pool Company and Mosquito Squad to its roster, marking the beginning of rapid expansion. What began as a small initiative soon evolved into a broad and diversified portfolio, encompassing a wide range of services, including HVAC repair, plumbing, pet waste management, and more.

The Core of Authority Brands’ Success.

At the heart of Authority Brands’ business strategy is a focus on “essential services”—those services that remain vital to consumers regardless of economic shifts or technological advances. By investing in brands that provide these crucial services, Authority Brands ensures that its franchise owners are well-equipped to weather market disruptions.

• Durability: Services like cleaning, home repairs, and senior care will always require a personal touch, even as technology reshapes other industries. Essential services are built to last.
• Stability: While luxury spending may decline during economic downturns, consumers will continue to invest in maintaining or improving their living spaces, ensuring steady demand for these services.
• Scalability: The consistent need for essential services provides a stable foundation for growth. A strong franchise can scale quickly by expanding its service offerings or opening new locations.

By emphasizing these principles of durability, stability, and scalability, Authority Brands has positioned itself as a cornerstone of the home services industry, uniting essential services under one powerful brand.

Rapid Growth Through Acquisitions.

The First Wave of Expansion.

In building its multi-brand home service empire, Authority Brands has demonstrated an impressive ability to expand quickly and strategically. The company’s acquisition strategy is just as crucial as the services it provides. Shortly after Homewatch CareGivers joined the family, Authority Brands cast a wider net by acquiring America’s Swimming Pool Company and Mosquito Squad. These early acquisitions clearly signaled the company’s intent to target industry leaders in each service niche. Not only did each acquisition add a stable and in-demand service, but it also introduced valuable operational expertise that further strengthened Authority Brands’ overall ecosystem.

As the company grew, so did its service offerings, which began to cover more of the essential home service needs homeowners rely on. The next major milestone in this journey occurred in 2019, when Authority Brands brought in three highly regarded brands: One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, and Mister Sparky Electric. These additions were a significant leap forward, reinforcing the parent company’s dedication to providing a full range of essential services for homeowners.

Milestones Amid Challenges.

Despite facing global uncertainty, Authority Brands continued its rapid pace of acquisitions. In 2020, amid the ongoing challenges brought on by the pandemic, the company managed to add two new powerhouse brands to its portfolio: Monster Tree Service and STOP Restoration. These acquisitions were a testament to the resilience of Authority Brands’ business model, which is rooted in offering services that remain in demand through all kinds of economic conditions. From tree care to disaster restoration, these new additions reflected the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of homeowners, no matter the external circumstances.

In 2021 and 2022, Authority Brands continued to build its portfolio with the addition of DoodyCalls, Lawn Squad, and Woofie’s. These strategic acquisitions allowed the company to diversify its service offerings even further while maintaining a focus on essential services that customers rely on every day. With each new brand, Authority Brands continued to elevate its reputation for aggressively pursuing top-tier service providers that fit into its broader mission of providing comprehensive and reliable home services.

The Core Philosophy: Empowering Franchise Owners.

Tools, Resources, and Ongoing Support.

A key driver behind Authority Brands’ success is its unwavering commitment to empowering its franchise owners for long-term growth. While many parent companies offer training or operational guidance, Authority Brands takes this a step further by providing an extensive support system that helps franchisees thrive in the competitive home services industry.

In the home services sector, where logistical efficiency, brand reputation, and customer satisfaction are critical to success, Authority Brands ensures that its franchise owners have everything they need to excel. From cutting-edge technology platforms that streamline booking and billing to dedicated field support teams, the company consistently invests in resources that make running a franchise easier and more efficient.

Key components of the robust franchise owner support structure include:

1. Initial Training Programs: Authority Brands provides comprehensive onboarding, ensuring new franchise owners understand the brand’s core systems, operational best practices, and industry standards.
2. Marketing Assistance: Franchisees gain access to a wealth of promotional materials, targeted campaigns, and digital marketing expertise designed to build local brand awareness and attract new customers.
3. Operational Guidance: Continuous support helps franchise owners navigate the complexities of staffing, customer service, territory management, and more, ensuring their operations are smooth and efficient.
4. Technology Tools: Authority Brands equips franchisees with streamlined digital solutions for scheduling, billing, and customer relationship management, enabling them to run their business more effectively and deliver exceptional service to customers.

By providing these critical resources, Authority Brands empowers its franchise owners to operate high-performing businesses, setting them up for success and ensuring that the brand’s reputation for excellence is upheld at every location.

Building Large, Sustainable Businesses.

Authority Brands’ impressive track record highlights a core objective: enabling franchise owners to build businesses of meaningful size. By strategically focusing on high-demand essential services, each brand within the portfolio is positioned to capture local market share more efficiently. This approach helps franchisees generate consistent revenue streams, creating a stable foundation for growth.

For the parent organization, this strategy results in a win-win scenario. When franchise owners at the ground level thrive, the entire network benefits. The success of individual franchises directly contributes to the overall strength and sustainability of the broader Authority Brands ecosystem, reinforcing its position as a leader in the home services industry.

Glimpses into Key Brands.

While the success of Authority Brands lies in its larger corporate structure, it’s essential to highlight the individual franchises that form the backbone of the network. Each brand brings its own identity, approach, and dedicated customer base, yet they all embody the core principles that make this parent company thrive. Here’s a brief tour of some standout businesses contributing to Authority Brands’ expanding empire:

1. One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning.
   • Focus: Residential HVAC services.
   • What Sets It Apart: Known for timely service, scheduling guarantees, and an unwavering commitment to customer comfort, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning has earned a reputation for reliability.
   • Franchisee Support: Franchisees receive comprehensive training, equipping them with both technical expertise and strong customer-facing skills to ensure high levels of service satisfaction.
2. Mister Sparky Electric.
   • Focus: Expert electrical services, from installations to repairs.
   • What Sets It Apart: Mister Sparky Electric stands out for its emphasis on safety, punctuality, and transparent pricing, offering peace of mind for customers seeking dependable electrical solutions.
   • Franchisee Support: Franchise owners benefit from a wealth of operational and marketing resources, helping them effectively grow their businesses while upholding the brand’s high standards.
3. The Cleaning Authority.
   • Focus: High-quality home cleaning services.
   • What Sets It Apart: The Cleaning Authority excels with its proven system for consistent, detailed cleaning, paired with strong customer retention strategies that ensure long-term satisfaction.
   • Franchisee Support: Franchisees are equipped with extensive training in time-saving cleaning techniques and efficient scheduling, allowing them to provide high-quality services while managing operations smoothly.
4. Monster Tree Service
   • Focus: Tree trimming, removal, and plant health care.
   • What Sets It Apart: Monster Tree Service is recognized for its environmentally responsible practices and use of advanced equipment that ensures safe and effective tree care.
   • Franchisee Support: Franchise owners receive ongoing education around safety, arboriculture, and best customer service practices, ensuring that they provide the highest standard of tree care in every community they serve.
5. Homewatch CareGivers
   • Focus: In-home care and companionship for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
   • What Sets It Apart: Homewatch CareGivers takes pride in its compassionate care model, stringent hiring standards, and continuous oversight of care quality, ensuring that clients receive the best possible care.
   • Franchisee Support: Franchisees are trained in healthcare guidelines, business operations, and compliance with state regulations, empowering them to run a successful business while providing exceptional care.

Steps Toward Ownership: What to Expect.

Investing in a franchise is a significant decision that involves careful research, planning, and due diligence. Authority Brands supports prospective franchise owners throughout every phase of the process, ensuring they make an informed decision and enter the system with a clear understanding of what to expect. Here’s a general roadmap that aspiring franchisees follow within this home service network:

1. Initial Inquiry: The first step is to complete an online inquiry form or directly engage with the brand to express your interest in owning a franchise. This is the starting point where you’ll begin learning more about the available opportunities within the network.
2. Introductory Call: After expressing interest, you’ll have an introductory call with a franchising representative. During this call, you’ll gain insights into available territories, franchise financials, and the overall company culture. This conversation serves as a great opportunity to ask preliminary questions and get a sense of whether the brand is a good fit for you.
3. FDD Review: Next, you’ll be provided with the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). This detailed document outlines all the fees, obligations, and support systems in place. Reviewing the FDD is an essential step in understanding your responsibilities as a franchise owner and the support you will receive from the parent company.
4. Discovery Day: Discovery Day is your chance to meet the corporate team in person, see operational processes firsthand, and get any questions you have answered in detail. This is a key step in getting a feel for the brand, its leadership, and the culture before making your final decision.
5. Signing and Onboarding: Once you’re ready to move forward, you’ll sign the franchise agreement and begin your initial training program. The onboarding process will ensure you’re well-prepared to operate your franchise successfully from day one.

The entire process can vary in length, but what remains consistent is Authority Brands’ commitment to guiding its franchisees throughout the journey. From initial inquiry to franchise ownership, the brand invests considerable resources to ensure franchise owners are fully prepared for success.

Comparative Overview of Key Brands.

To get a sense of how these different companies stack up within the home service arena, consider the table below. It provides a simplified snapshot of key attributes that prospective franchisees often look for. Keep in mind that each brand offers a unique culture, market niche, and growth potential.

Franchise Brand	Core Service	Year Joined	Primary Differentiator
The Cleaning Authority	Residential Cleaning	2017	Proven, repeatable cleaning systems*
Homewatch CareGivers	Senior & Disability Care	2017	Compassion-driven care approach*
America’s Swimming Pool Co.	Pool Maintenance & Repair	2017	Emphasis on tech-savvy pool solutions*
Mosquito Squad	Outdoor Mosquito & Pest Control	2017	Seasonal strategies & repeat customers*
One Hour Heating & Air	HVAC Services	2019	Punctual service guarantees*
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing	Plumbing Services	2019	Comprehensive plumbing solutions*
Mister Sparky Electric	Electrical Services	2019	Strict punctuality & safety measures*
Monster Tree Service	Tree Care & Maintenance	2020	Eco-friendly arboriculture practices*
STOP Restoration	Disaster Restoration & Cleanup	2020	Rapid emergency response protocols*
DoodyCalls	Pet Waste Management	2021	Hygienic & convenient service model*
Lawn Squad	Lawn Care & Landscaping	2022	Expertise in seasonal lawn treatments*
Woofie’s	Pet Care & Services	2022	Personalized pet grooming & walks*

Where Innovation Meets Tradition.

Stability Amid Technological Disruption.

In an era where technology often drives change, Authority Brands understands the delicate balance between embracing innovation and maintaining the personal touch that defines essential home services. While technology plays a crucial role in streamlining scheduling, billing, and customer engagement, many core services in the home services industry still require in-person expertise. From HVAC repairs to plumbing fixes, these tasks demand hands-on skills and a level of personal care that automated bots or virtual reality can’t replace.

This reality positions Authority Brands and its portfolio of franchises apart from industries at risk of becoming obsolete due to rapid technological advancements. The company has strategically sought out businesses that cater to day-to-day homeowner needs—needs that are unlikely to be replaced by emerging tech solutions.

However, innovation is still a key part of the strategy. Authority Brands invests in digital tools that enhance the efficiency and reach of each franchise. By combining traditional, hands-on services with modern marketing and management platforms, these franchises remain at the cutting edge of customer satisfaction, staying relevant in an ever-changing landscape.

Commitment to Community.

Alongside technological investments and strong brand identities, Authority Brands emphasizes the importance of community. Every franchise is encouraged to be an active participant in the local areas it serves. Whether it’s by supporting local charities, sponsoring neighborhood events, or simply offering prompt responses in emergencies, these franchises aim to build trust and foster genuine relationships with residents. This focus on community engagement ensures that each franchise doesn’t just meet the immediate needs of homeowners—it becomes an integral, trusted part of the community fabric.

The Power of Synergy.

One of the main reasons Authority Brands thrives is the synergy created by operating under a unified banner. Instead of independent franchises, being part of a larger network allows for shared best practices, cross-promotion of services, and leveraging economies of scale.

• Collaborative Learning: New franchises often bring fresh ideas that can be shared across the entire network, ensuring continuous improvement and the implementation of successful practices.
• Cross-Promotional Opportunities: Homeowners trusting one brand for services like cleaning may also consider other services, such as plumbing or electrical, from the same parent company. This cross-promotion boosts growth for all franchises.
• Centralized Support Systems: Franchisees benefit from collective negotiating power, helping reduce costs on suppliers, marketing, and technology while ensuring access to top-notch resources.

This synergy maximizes success, amplifying growth from the smallest location to the corporate level.

“Behind the Scenes” Corporate Culture.

Leadership and Vision.

The momentum behind Authority Brands is driven by a unified leadership vision. From the initial acquisition of The Cleaning Authority, the leadership team saw the potential in combining successful, independent home service companies. Their mission is not just to acquire businesses but to equip them with the necessary resources to strengthen local franchises and ensure exceptional customer experiences.

Ongoing Development.

Authority Brands is committed to both personal and professional growth for its franchise owners and staff. This commitment includes ongoing training sessions, leadership summits, online courses, and personalized consultations with corporate support teams. By fostering talent within the network, the organization creates a culture of loyalty and shared purpose, helping all stakeholders reach their goals.

Mapping Out the Future: Why Invest Now?

The home services industry offers substantial growth potential, driven by essential services like pest control, pet care, and more. Demographic shifts, such as an aging population, increase the demand for in-home care and maintenance services. As remote work and family gatherings become more common, the need for comfortable, well-maintained living spaces is rising. The timing couldn’t be better for investing in a franchise within this resilient industry.

Why Invest in Authority Brands Now?

For those considering franchise ownership, joining a network backed by an established home service parent company provides key advantages:

• Brand Recognition: Leverage well-known names that already enjoy trust and credibility in the marketplace.
• Comprehensive Training: Start with a proven playbook, minimizing risks and reducing guesswork.
• Marketing Leverage: Access cost-effective marketing campaigns that would be difficult to replicate independently.
• Future-Focused Growth: Benefit from the parent company’s ongoing acquisition strategy, which introduces new services and cross-promotional opportunities.

Investing now positions you to capitalize on the future growth of a dynamic industry, ensuring you’re prepared to meet tomorrow’s opportunities, especially in a market as resilient as home services.

Forging Ahead: A Vision of Home Service Excellence.

Looking back on its evolution, it’s clear why Authority Brands has become a leader in the home services sector. From the initial acquisition of The Cleaning Authority to its expansive portfolio of diverse franchises, Authority Brands showcases what’s possible when strategic thinking meets unwavering commitment.

Franchise owners enjoy a robust support system designed for long-term success, while customers receive top-tier services that address a broad range of household needs. This commitment to excellence positions the company as a key player in the industry.

If you’re inspired by innovation, stability, and community focus, now is the perfect time to explore franchise ownership. Join a thriving network of dedicated franchise owners who are revolutionizing home services. Take the next step today—explore your options and begin your journey toward ownership in the growing and resilient home service industry.

Visit Find Franchises to request more information and start your path to owning a franchise that’s shaping the future of home services.

---

Did you know that we can offer you
franchise consulting at no cost?

Please fill out the form to contact us.