Under what condition is a Crave Cookies franchisee required to engage the services of an architect?
Crave_Cookies Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee shall construct (or remodel) and finish the Location in conformity with Crave Cookies Franchising's System Standards.
If required by Crave Cookies Franchising, Franchisee shall engage the services of an architect licensed in the jurisdiction of the Location.
Franchisee shall not begin any construction or remodeling work without first obtaining Crave Cookies Franchising's approval of Franchisee's plans.
Crave Cookies Franchising may, but is not required to, inspect Franchisee's construction or remodeling progress at any reasonable time.
Franchisee shall not rely upon any information provided or opinions expressed by Crave Cookies Franchising or its representatives regarding any architectural, engineering, or legal matters (including without limitation the Americans With Disabilities Act) in the development and construction of the Business, and Crave Cookies Franchising assumes no liability with respect thereto.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 47)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Crave Cookies's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is required to engage the services of a licensed architect if Crave Cookies Franchising requires it. This requirement is tied to the construction or remodeling of the franchise location to meet Crave Cookies's System Standards.
This means that as a prospective franchisee, you might incur additional costs for architectural services if Crave Cookies mandates it for your location's build-out or any subsequent remodeling. It is important to note that the franchisee cannot begin any construction or remodeling without the franchisor's approval of the plans.
Crave Cookies also clarifies that they may inspect the construction or remodeling progress but are not obligated to do so. Furthermore, the document explicitly states that franchisees should not rely on any information or opinions from Crave Cookies regarding architectural, engineering, or legal matters, including compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act. Crave Cookies assumes no liability in these areas, placing the onus on the franchisee to ensure compliance and proper construction.
Given this information, a prospective Crave Cookies franchisee should clarify with the franchisor under what specific circumstances an architect's services are typically required. Understanding this will help in budgeting for the initial build-out and any future remodels, as well as ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.