Under what conditions will Benjamin Franklin Plumbing charge an extension fee for the Opening Deadline?
Benjamin_Franklin_Plumbing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
only and does not apply to any transaction involving brokers or any other third-party referral sources.
Opening Deadline Extension Fee
You are required to open the Franchised Business to the public by the deadline specified in your Franchise Agreement (the "Opening Deadline"). If you request an extension of the Opening Deadline, we have complete discretion whether to give an extension. If we agree to an extension, we have the right to charge you an extension fee of up to $1,000 per month of extension. However, you will not be charged an extension fee if your request is accompanied by supporting documentation demonstrating to our satisfaction that, despite your best efforts, you are u
Source: Item 5 — INITIAL FEES (FDD pages 15–18)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to open their business by the Opening Deadline specified in the Franchise Agreement. If a franchisee requests an extension to this deadline, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has the discretion to grant it. If the extension is granted, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has the right to charge an extension fee of up to $1,000 per month.
However, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing will not charge an extension fee if the franchisee provides supporting documentation that demonstrates, to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's satisfaction, that despite their best efforts, they could not obtain the necessary equipment to open and operate the franchise by the Opening Deadline.
This policy means that franchisees need to diligently pursue acquiring all necessary equipment to avoid potential extension fees. It also highlights the importance of clear communication and documentation in the event of unavoidable delays. Franchisees should maintain thorough records of their efforts to secure equipment, as this documentation could be crucial in avoiding extension fees if a delay occurs.