According to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the high estimate for additional funds needed during the initial three months of operation is $90,000 for a start-up franchise and also for a conversion franchise. These funds are intended to cover ongoing expenses such as employee salaries, and utility costs. The FDD specifies that these estimates can vary based on individual circumstances, including staffing decisions and employee salaries.

For a prospective Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchisee, this means they should be prepared to have access to at least $90,000 in liquid capital to cover operational expenses during the first three months. This figure is in addition to the other initial investment costs outlined in Item 7 of the FDD, such as the franchise fee, marketing expenses, and equipment costs. It is important to note that this is just an estimate, and actual costs may be higher or lower depending on the franchisee's specific circumstances.

It is also important to consider the assumptions underlying this estimate. The high estimate assumes that the franchisee will hire a non-owner key person to manage the business, and that this person will be paid a salary. If the franchisee plans to manage the business themselves, the additional funds needed may be lower. Additionally, the estimate depends on the number of employees hired and their anticipated salaries. A franchisee who plans to hire more employees or pay higher salaries will need to have access to more capital.

Franchisees should carefully review Item 7 of the FDD and consider their own individual circumstances when estimating their initial investment costs. They should also consult with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and other franchisees to get a better understanding of the potential costs involved in starting and operating a franchise. It is always better to overestimate the initial investment costs than to underestimate them, as running out of capital can be a major challenge for new businesses.