Rooter-Man Franchise

Rooter-Man has established itself as a leading franchise in the sewer and drain cleaning industry. Since its inception in 1970 and franchising beginning in 1981, Rooter-Man has expanded its reach, providing premier services that include sewer maintenance, emergency plumbing repairs, and various other related services and products.

Key Franchise Information

• Founded: 1970
• Franchising Since: 1981
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia
• Number of Units: Approximately 725

Comprehensive Training Program

All franchisees undergo a rigorous training program designed to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge for success. The initial training spans four weeks and includes:

• 40 hours of specialist-directed on-boarding
• 40 hours of online training
• 36 hours of classroom training at the headquarters in Charlottesville, Virginia
• 4 hours of field training

Additionally, periodic refresher training is provided to ensure franchisees stay updated with the latest operational standards.

Territory Protection

Rooter-Man values the success and growth of its franchisees by offering a protected territory. Each franchisee is granted an area delineated by zip codes, ensuring a geographic region of no less than 125,000 people where no other Rooter-Man businesses will be established.

Franchisee Obligations

Franchisees are expected to adhere strictly to the company’s standards and operational procedures. Key requirements include:

• The business must be under direct, full-time supervision of a designated manager.
• Operations must be conducted from an approved home office or office space and vehicles designated for Rooter-Man services.
• Franchisees must comply with the methods and standards specified in the brand standards manual.

Investment Details

Starting a Rooter-Man franchise requires an initial investment that caters to various startup costs. Below is a breakdown of the estimated initial investment:

• Initial Franchise Fee:

  • Low: $4,975
  • High: $4,975

• Vehicle:

  • Low: $1,500
  • High: $5,000

• Real Estate and/or Leasehold Improvements:

  • Low: $0
  • High: $3,000

• Equipment & Supplies:

  • Low: $5,000
  • High: $7,000

• Insurance:

  • Low: $2,000
  • High: $5,000

• Signage:

  • Low: $3,000
  • High: $4,000

• Technology Fee:

  • Low: $2,500
  • High: $2,500

• Grand Opening:

  • Low: $2,500
  • High: $5,000

• Training Expenses:

  • Low: $2,000
  • High: $4,000

• Licenses/Bonds:

  • Low: $100
  • High: $1,500

• Professional Fees:

  • Low: $1,500
  • High: $3,000

• Additional Funds (3 months):

  • Low: $20,000
  • High: $37,500

• Estimated Total:

  • Low: $45,075
  • High: $82,475

Other Associated Fees

Beyond the initial investment, franchisees should be aware of additional fees that may apply, such as:

• Royalty Fee: $3 per 1,000 of population in the territory
• Marketing Fund: $1 per 1,000 of population in the territory
• Website Fee: $199 per month
• Technology Fee: $399 per month, per technician
• Advertising Cooperative Fee: Up to greater of $10,000 or 2% of gross sales per year
• Various other fees and penalties for non-compliance

Term and Renewal of Agreement

The initial term length for a Rooter-Man franchise agreement is ten years, with two additional successive terms of ten years each available if all requirements are met.

Financial Assistance

Rooter-Man does not provide direct or indirect financing nor guarantee any franchisee’s note, lease, or obligation.

Key Takeaways

• Rooter-Man offers a profitable opportunity in the essential sewer and drain cleaning industry.
• The franchise ensures comprehensive training and continued support.
• Protected territory provides competitive assurance for franchisees.
• Initial investment ranges from $45,075 to $82,475.

To learn more about opening your own Rooter-Man franchise, download the full Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), or fill out the free information request form on this page.