Bill Hyde started to repair leaking showers in Sydney in 1992. When he added regrouting and rejuvenation of the entire bathroom to the service the business expanded exponentially. In 2006, in pursuit of a sea change, he sold the Sydney business and set up a new one in Hawks Nest. By the time he started franchising Tile Rescue in 2007 he had 15 years of experience in tile maintenance under his belt.

Tile Rescue offers an alternative to re-tiling for about a tenth of the cost. One of the real benefits for franchisees is personal satisfaction; customers are generally thrilled by the transformation.

A good operator gets lots of referrals, says Hyde. Word of mouth and customer referrals are important as Tile Rescue is still relatively new in the marketplace. We’re working hard to let people know about our service.

The system works on any tiles or pavers, in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry, foyer, patio and even around the pool.

Franchisees work with real estate agents, in motels, retirement villages, restaurants and clubs as well as in the home.

The $25,000 start-up cost includes everything apart from the van; equipment, training, access to a centralised call centre and a $2000 marketing package. Pretty much all of the cost goes straight back to the franchisee, says Hyde.

With two franchisees in Melbourne, four in New South Wales and one about to start up in Queensland, Hyde is pursuing the goal of a national operation. He’s looking for motivated franchisees who are committed to customer service, have an eye for detail and take pride in what they do.

Tile Rescue involves physical work but it isn’t a ‘bloke’ thing, he says. A successful franchisee is just as likely to be female.