How a South Georgia Team Became Mr. Rooter Franchisee of the Year

This Mr. Rooter video celebrates the brand's Franchisee of the Year: Buddy Carver, his wife Synda, and Buddy's longtime friend and business partner Michael Medders, who run Mr. Rooter of Southeast Georgia and Mr. Rooter of East Central Georgia from their office in Douglas, Georgia. The business focuses on plumbing and drain cleaning, with a growing push toward drain cleaning and sewer replacements.

Buddy started his first Mr. Rooter franchise with Synda in 2005, and later opened the East Central Georgia franchise with Michael. Their group has since expanded into other Neighborly brands, including Aire Serv and Mr. Appliance, and employs around 30 people.

Before franchising, the business operated as Buddy Carver Plumbing. Buddy says it lacked systems and the team was constantly running from job to job. He wanted structure and organization, which led him to research Mr. Rooter and visit Waco. Synda, who handles the bookkeeping, admits she was convinced it would not work and was emotional during the process, but says the results made a believer out of her. Better systems, stronger marketing and someone to call when problems arise all made a difference.

The team credits their award to culture. They take care of their people, and in turn their people take care of homeowners who are often dealing with stressful situations such as flooded houses. Several employees have been given second chances and have thrived.

Buddy says that if a small South Georgia shop can win Franchisee of the Year, anyone can, and his biggest regret is not joining Mr. Rooter sooner.