What fee does Carvel charge for reviewing Architectural Plans after the initial and revised review?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
se Agreement, Section 6.2.A.(i))
- 6. Plans and Build-out. We will provide a sample layout and specifications for the Shoppe. We will review the Architectural Plans developed by your Architect and engineers. Our review of the Architectural Plans is limited to ensuring your compliance with our Standards and is not desi
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 59–74)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Carvel provides an initial review of the franchisee's architectural plans at no cost. Carvel also provides a review of one revised set of architectural plans, incorporating required changes, also at no cost. However, for each subsequent set of drawings that Carvel reviews, which include any modifications from the plans that Carvel has previously accepted, Carvel may charge a fee. This fee is $2,500 for each set of drawings reviewed.
This fee is important for prospective franchisees to consider as it directly impacts the costs associated with setting up their Carvel Shoppe. If the initial architectural plans require multiple revisions beyond the first one, the franchisee will incur additional expenses. This could happen if the franchisee's architect is not familiar with Carvel's standards or if there are unforeseen site-specific issues that require adjustments to the plans.
It is crucial for franchisees to ensure their architect is well-versed in Carvel's design and construction standards to minimize the need for multiple revisions. Effective communication between the franchisee, the architect, and Carvel is essential to streamline the plan approval process and avoid incurring these additional review fees. Franchisees should also factor in a contingency budget to cover potential architectural plan review fees when planning their initial investment.