What is the range of estimated costs for architectural, engineering, and related consultant services that a Del Taco franchisee can expect to pay?
Del_Taco Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Type of Expenditure | Amount | Method of Payment | When Due | To Whom Paid | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee2 | $35,000 | $35,000 | Lump Sum | (Note 2) | Us |
| Promotional Fee2 | $10,000 | $10,000 | Lump Sum | (Note 2) | Us |
| Land3 | Not Included | Not Included | Not Included | Not Included | Not Included |
| Fee for Architectural and Engineering and Related Consultant Services4 | $27,000 | $124,000 | As Agreed | As Agreed | Consultants |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 21–28)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Del Taco's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated cost for architectural, engineering, and related consultant services ranges from $27,000 to $124,000. These fees are paid as agreed upon with the consultants.
The FDD specifies that consulting costs can vary significantly based on the documentation needed to secure development-related approvals. These approvals may include those from landlords, third parties, zoning authorities, planning commissions, building/municipal entities, signage authorities, health departments, fire departments, and other agencies.
Consultants that a Del Taco franchisee might hire include architects, permit expediters, zoning consultants, landscape architects, structural engineers, utility designers, fire sprinkler engineers, land surveyors, geotechnical engineers, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers, outside project managers, and construction testing consultants. It is important to note that these consulting costs do not include the actual fees paid for permits and approvals to municipal and governmental agencies, nor do they include fees assessed by utility service providers.