| QualifiedTier A | Independent | JMJim MeyerPresident+2 more | 4,431 | 44,546 | $62KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $65K | Large-scale, family-owned independent operator with a massive digital footprint and multi-market presence. Explicitly states they are not private equ...EvidenceVerdict: Independent Large-scale, family-owned independent operator with a massive digital footprint and multi-market presence. Explicitly states they are not private equity owned in recruitment materials, making them a prime acquisition target. Extremely high review count (4,400+), 55+ year operating history, and coverage of three major Ohio metro markets with physical offices in each. Full audit record |
| Not qualified | PE Platform Ultimate: Alpine Investors via Apex Service PartnersPlatform: Apex Service Partners | Jerry BassettOwner signal pending | 897 | 5,083 | $62KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $65K | The company is a regional platform that has already scaled significantly and acts as an acquirer (PE-backed or self-funded platform behavior). PitchB...EvidenceVerdict: PE Platform — Apex Service Partners / ultimate owner Alpine Investors via Apex Service Partners The company is a regional platform that has already scaled significantly and acts as an acquirer (PE-backed or self-funded platform behavior). PitchBook evidence confirms it has completed multiple acquisitions, indicating it is a platform/consolidator rather than an independent target. Multi-state operation (OH/IN) with high review counts (897+ in Columbus alone), multiple service lines (HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical), and a history of making its own acquisitions (e.g., Jones Home Services). Full audit record |
| Not qualified | PE Platform Ultimate: Brookfield InfrastructurePlatform: Service Experts / Enercare | Not foundOwner signal pending | 742 | 69,760 | $62KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $65K | Service Experts is a massive, well-known PE-owned/corporate platform. While they have recently introduced a franchise model in select markets, this l...EvidenceVerdict: PE Platform — Service Experts / Enercare / ultimate owner Brookfield Infrastructure Service Experts is a massive, well-known PE-owned/corporate platform. While they have recently introduced a franchise model in select markets, this location is part of their established national corporate network (formerly Stevenson Service Experts). National platform with over 100 locations and thousands of employees; formerly owned by Lennox and Enercare, currently a major PE-backed entity. Full audit record |
| QualifiedTier A | IndependentDatabase said PE-backed.
Evidence says independent. | JMJohn MathewsFounder+2 more | 542 | 634 | $55KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $57K | Strong independent operator with high review volume (542 reviews, 4.9 rating) and a clear focus on high-value commercial/facility maintenance. Explic...EvidenceVerdict: Independent Strong independent operator with high review volume (542 reviews, 4.9 rating) and a clear focus on high-value commercial/facility maintenance. Explicitly states local ownership by John Mathews. PitchBook 'PE-backed' tag appears to be a false positive or confusion with 'Trades Holding Company' (Mr. Rooter) mentioned in other search results. High review count (542), significant commercial/facility focus, and evidence of large-scale service agreements (e.g., Red Lobster bankruptcy filings showing $21k+ contract). Full audit record |
| QualifiedTier B | Independent | TGTravis GuntherBusiness Owner | 834 | 10,969 | $111KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $117K | Highly rated independent operator with significant local market presence (800+ reviews). Family-owned for 20+ years with a professional website and c...EvidenceVerdict: Independent Highly rated independent operator with significant local market presence (800+ reviews). Family-owned for 20+ years with a professional website and clear service area in the Columbus metro. Not affiliated with any known PE platforms or franchises. Strong review count (834) for a local plumber, 20+ years of operating history, and a diverse service offering including commercial backflow testing and hydro jetting. Full audit record |
| QualifiedTier A | Independent | CECharles EvansPresidenthighNo LinkedIn +1 more | 773 | 1,660 | $62KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $65K | Independent family-owned operator with a very strong local reputation (4.8 stars on 700+ reviews). They offer high-margin specialized services (trenc...EvidenceVerdict: Independent Independent family-owned operator with a very strong local reputation (4.8 stars on 700+ reviews). They offer high-margin specialized services (trenchless sewer, slab leak detection) and maintain a professional, non-franchised digital presence. High review count (773) indicates significant market share and volume; specialized equipment like trenchless repair and hydro-jetting suggests a sophisticated operation beyond a one-man shop. Full audit record |
| QualifiedTier B | Independent | | 755 | 1,310 | $55KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $57K | Strong independent operator with over 750 reviews and a 4.9 rating. While they operate as a 'home maintenance' company, they have dedicated plumbing...EvidenceVerdict: Independent Strong independent operator with over 750 reviews and a 4.9 rating. While they operate as a 'home maintenance' company, they have dedicated plumbing and drain cleaning divisions, making them a prime target for a residential services rollup looking for a high-reputation local anchor. High review volume (755 reviews) and a broad service offering across plumbing, electrical, and exterior maintenance suggest a robust local operation with significant market penetration in the Columbus area. Full audit record |
| Not qualified | Franchise Ultimate: Water Intelligence plcPlatform: American Leak Detection, Inc. | Not foundOwner signal pending | 399 | 1,295 | $62KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $65K | Confirmed franchise of American Leak Detection, a national franchise system headquartered in Connecticut.EvidenceVerdict: Franchise — American Leak Detection, Inc. / ultimate owner Water Intelligence plc Confirmed franchise of American Leak Detection, a national franchise system headquartered in Connecticut. Strong review count (399) and multi-market coverage (Columbus and Youngstown) since 1994, but operates as a franchise unit. Full audit record |
| QualifiedTier A | Independent | | 677 | 715 | $111KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $117K | Highly established independent operator with 30+ years of history, strong review volume (677 reviews, 4.8 rating), and multiple service lines. Clearl...EvidenceVerdict: Independent Highly established independent operator with 30+ years of history, strong review volume (677 reviews, 4.8 rating), and multiple service lines. Clearly not a franchise or PE-backed platform based on local branding and 'locally owned and operated' claims. Operating for over 30 years with two physical locations, a high review count (677), and a multi-trade service offering (HVAC, Plumbing, Electric). Full audit record |
| QualifiedTier B | Independent | | 231 | 252 | $47KZIP HHICOL 95.5 / adj $49K | High-quality independent operator with a strong local reputation (4.8 stars / 231 reviews). Offers a full suite of high-ticket services including sew...EvidenceVerdict: Independent High-quality independent operator with a strong local reputation (4.8 stars / 231 reviews). Offers a full suite of high-ticket services including sewer excavation and hydro excavation, which are attractive for PE rollups. Family-owned with clear owner identification. Strong review count (231), established since 2009, 30+ years of industry experience, and active hiring for technicians. Operates in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors with specialized excavation capabilities. Full audit record |