Does Beem Light Sauna require approval of architectural drawings and specifications before submission for permitting?
Beem_Light_Sauna Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
tee a lease for you.
4.4 Site Construction.
- (a) Plans. We will make available to you a set of prototype plans and specifications (not for construction) for the Studio and for the exterior and interior design and layout. You must engage designers, architects, and engineers to adapt for the Site our standard plans and specifications for the exterior and interior design and layout, fixtures, furnishings, signs, Trade Dress, and equipment for the Studio. We will review the architectural drawings and specifications for the construction of the Studio showing all leasehold improvements, interior designs, and elevations developed by your contractors (collectively "Plans"), which we must approve prior to their submission for permitting. After we have accepted the final Plans, you may not modify the Plans without our prior written consent. We have the right to require you to obtain our prior written approval of any project managers, architects, engineers, or designers that you would like to use before you engage them.
- (b) Permit, Licenses, and Compliance. Before beginning any construction, you, at your expense, must obtain all necessary government permits and licenses for the lawful construction and operation of your Studio. You must abide by your landlord's rules and guidelines. It is your responsibility to ensure that all Plans comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and similar rules governing public accommodations for persons with disabilities, other applicable ordinances, building codes, permit requirements, and lease requirements and restrictions.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 71–230)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Beem Light Sauna's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must have their architectural drawings and specifications approved by Beem Light Sauna before submitting them for permitting. Beem Light Sauna will provide prototype plans and specifications, which are not for construction, to the franchisee. The franchisee is then responsible for engaging designers, architects, and engineers to adapt these standard plans to the specific site.
Beem Light Sauna retains the right to review and approve these adapted plans, ensuring they meet the brand's design requirements. Franchisees are not allowed to modify the final plans without prior written consent from Beem Light Sauna. Additionally, Beem Light Sauna has the right to approve the project managers, architects, engineers, or designers that the franchisee intends to use.
Before starting any construction, the franchisee is responsible for obtaining all necessary government permits and licenses. The franchisee must also ensure that the plans comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, applicable ordinances, building codes, permit requirements, and lease requirements. Beem Light Sauna's review of the plans is limited to ensuring compliance with their design requirements and does not assess compliance with other applicable laws and regulations.
Before construction can begin, Beem Light Sauna must provide written approval of the plans and the franchisee's choice of general contractor. This process ensures that all Beem Light Sauna locations maintain a consistent brand image and meet the franchisor's standards, while also placing the responsibility for legal and regulatory compliance on the franchisee.