Are architect and engineering fees included in the Construction and Leasehold Improvement estimates for a Buff City Soap Makery?
Buff_City_Soap Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You may incur architect and engineering fees in the development of your location.
Construction and Leasehold Improvement estimates do not include rent or utilities.
| Nature of Expenditure | Low | High Estimate | Payment | When Due | Payment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architects and Engineering | As | Before | |||
| $5,750 | $20,000 | incurred | opening | Suppliers | |
| Construction and Leasehold | As | Before | |||
| Improvements (See Note 4) | incurred | opening | Suppliers | ||
| $42,860 | $310,000 |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 24–28)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buff City Soap's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, architect and engineering fees are separate from the Construction and Leasehold Improvement estimates. The FDD states that a franchisee "may incur architect and engineering fees in the development of your location." The table outlining the estimated initial investment lists "Architects and Engineering" as a separate expenditure, with an estimated cost between $5,750 and $20,000.
This means that prospective Buff City Soap franchisees should budget for these fees in addition to the estimated costs for Construction and Leasehold Improvements, which range from $42,860 to $310,000. These fees are paid as incurred, before opening, to suppliers.
It is important for potential franchisees to understand that the Construction and Leasehold Improvement estimates cover the build-out of an existing building or space to meet Buff City Soap's required image and décor. These costs do not include rent or utilities. Given that architect and engineering fees are not included in the Construction and Leasehold Improvement estimates, franchisees need to account for these additional costs when planning their initial investment.