What is the process for plan approval for an Embassy Suites hotel, and can changes be made after approval?
Embassy_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
licies or procedures might apply to the Hotel or Hotel site. The table of contents of the Manual is attached as Exhibit H-1.
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- Before you retain or engage an architect, Interior designer, general contractor and major subcontractors, we will review your selection, and you must obtain our prior written consent (Franchise Agreement, Section 6.1.1).
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- We will review the plans, layouts and specifications, drawings and designs for constructing and furnishing your Hotel, including guest suite areas, and grant or deny approval, which may be conditioned on your architect or other certified professional certifying to us that the Plans comply with all laws related to accessibility, accommodations and facilities for those with disabilities. You may not start construction until you receive our approval.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 53–67)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Embassy Suites Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must adhere to a specific process for plan approval when constructing or modifying their hotel. Before engaging an architect, interior designer, general contractor, or major subcontractors, the franchisee must submit their selections to Embassy Suites for review and obtain prior written consent. This ensures that the professionals involved meet the brand's standards and are capable of executing the project to the required specifications.
The franchisee is required to submit the plans, layouts, specifications, drawings, and designs for the hotel's construction and furnishing, including guest suite areas, to Embassy Suites for approval. Embassy Suites may grant or deny approval, and this approval can be conditional. For instance, Embassy Suites might require the architect or another certified professional to certify that the plans comply with all laws related to accessibility, accommodations, and facilities for those with disabilities. This condition ensures that the hotel meets legal requirements and provides appropriate facilities for all guests.
Construction cannot commence until the franchisee receives approval from Embassy Suites. Furthermore, once the plans have been approved, no changes can be made without obtaining advance consent from Embassy Suites. This requirement ensures that the final product aligns with the brand's standards and specifications, maintaining consistency across all Embassy Suites hotels. Failing to adhere to these guidelines can result in delays, additional costs, and potential breaches of the franchise agreement.