For an Auntie Annes franchise, is the franchisee required to employ a licensed architect to prepare Architectural Plans?
Auntie_Annes Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
6.2 Architectural Plans.
- A. Architectural Requirements. We will provide you with a sample layout for the interior of a typical Business and specifications for furniture, fixtures, equipment, and décor. You must, at your expense, employ a licensed architect that we accept in writing and licensed engineers (e.g., mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or structural engineers) as necessary to prepare your plans, modify or complete the layouts, renderings, plans, and specifications, which must include interior and exterior elevations of the Accepted Location (the "Architectural Plans"). Our acceptance of your architect will not in any way be our endorsement of your architect or render us liable for your architect's performance or your architect's compliance with professional design standards or adherence to local codes.
- B. Compliance with Legal Requirements. You must, before we approve the Architectural Plans, have your architect or you certify to us that the Architectural Plans comply
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 106)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Auntie Anne's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to employ a licensed architect to prepare Architectural Plans for their franchise location. Auntie Anne's must provide written acceptance of the architect chosen by the franchisee. The franchisee is also responsible for any expenses related to the architect's services.
The Architectural Plans must adhere to Auntie Anne's provided sample layout and specifications for furniture, fixtures, equipment, and décor. The plans should include interior and exterior elevations of the location. Additionally, if necessary, licensed engineers may need to be employed to modify or complete the layouts, renderings, plans, and specifications.
Before Auntie Anne's approves the Architectural Plans, the franchisee or their architect must certify that the plans comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), its architectural guidelines, and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws. This ensures the franchise location meets all legal requirements before construction begins.