Is an Epcon Communities franchisee required to participate in the QualityMark inspection program?
Epcon_Communities Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We can require you to participate in an inspection program where the Units in your project are inspected for defects and deficiencies in the workmanship of the improvements and features of the Unit. We currently require you to participate in the QualityMarkTM inspection program. After the inspection, all of the trade partners, the work of which has been noted as sub-standard on the inspection report, must correct any deficiencies or problems with their work before the Unit buyer sees the finished Unit. You must employ or contract for the inspector who will perform the QualityMark™ inspection. The inspector must be a person other than your construction superintendent or any other person who was involved in the day-to-day construction of the Epcon Community at which the inspection will occur.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 32–35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Epcon Communities' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are currently required to participate in the QualityMark inspection program. This program involves inspections of units within the franchisee's project to identify any defects or deficiencies in workmanship.
The purpose of the QualityMark program is to ensure that any substandard work is corrected by the relevant trade partners before the unit is presented to the buyer. This helps maintain the quality standards of the Epcon Communities brand and ensures customer satisfaction.
As an Epcon Communities franchisee, you are responsible for employing or contracting an inspector to conduct the QualityMark inspection. However, to maintain objectivity, this inspector must not be the construction superintendent or anyone involved in the day-to-day construction of the Epcon Community. This requirement ensures an unbiased assessment of the units and helps to identify any potential issues that need to be addressed.
The FDD also mentions that Epcon Communities has the right to require franchisees to participate in a rebate program, but it is not currently mandatory. Additionally, franchisees are not required to participate in group purchases that Epcon Communities may arrange with suppliers.