Is the payment for Big Blue Swim School site visit reimbursement refundable?

According to the 2025 Big Blue Swim School Franchise Disclosure Document, the reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses for site visits after the first visit is not refundable. Big Blue Swim School may visit the territory once for no additional fee to review potential sites for each swim school to be constructed and developed. However, Big Blue Swim School has the right to require franchisees to reimburse their out-of-pocket expenses for each subsequent site visit.

This means that if Big Blue Swim School conducts more than one site visit, the franchisee will be responsible for covering the franchisor's expenses for each subsequent visit. The FDD is explicit that these payments are non-refundable, regardless of whether the site is ultimately approved or the franchisee decides not to proceed with that particular location. This policy is in place to cover the franchisor's costs associated with evaluating potential locations and providing support to the franchisee during the site selection process.

Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the potential costs associated with site visits and factor them into their overall investment budget. It would be prudent to discuss with Big Blue Swim School the typical expenses incurred during a site visit and the criteria they use to evaluate potential locations. Understanding these factors can help franchisees make informed decisions about site selection and manage their expenses effectively. Franchisees may also want to inquire about the possibility of conducting virtual site visits or utilizing local resources to minimize the need for multiple in-person visits from the franchisor.