Under what condition can a Carvel franchisee begin construction?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ned to assess structural integrity or compliance with applicable laws. After our initial review of your Architectural Plans at no cost and our review of one revised set of Architectural Plans that incorporate our required changes at no cost, we may charge a fee of $2,500 for each set of drawings we review that include any other modifications from the plans that we have previously accepted. We must accept your Architectural Plans in writing prior to you submitting them for permits and beginning constru
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, a franchisee must have their Architectural Plans accepted in writing by Carvel before submitting them for permits and beginning construction. Carvel will review the Architectural Plans developed by the franchisee's Architect and engineers to ensure compliance with Carvel's standards. This review is not designed to assess structural integrity or compliance with applicable laws.
Carvel offers an initial review of the Architectural Plans at no cost and a review of one revised set of plans that incorporate Carvel's required changes, also at no cost. However, Carvel may charge a fee of $2,500 for each subsequent set of drawings reviewed that include any other modifications from the previously accepted plans.
During construction, Carvel may inspect the Shoppe or photographs provided by the franchisee to verify compliance with the Architectural Plans and Carvel's Standards. Carvel may charge a $2,500 on-site inspection fee if it conducts two or more on-site inspections. The franchisee cannot open the Shoppe until Carvel provides written consent.