Are there contractual limitations on the frequency or cost of hardware and software upgrades for the computer system required by Epcon Communities?

According to Epcon Communities' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are obligated to periodically upgrade and/or update their computer hardware and software to meet the franchisor's current minimum specifications. While the Franchise Agreement does not impose contractual limitations on the frequency or cost of these upgrades, Epcon Communities states that they will not require these upgrades more often than annually. The estimated annual cost for these upgrades is $350. Epcon Communities is not obligated to provide any ongoing maintenance, repairs, upgrades, or updates to the franchisee's computer system.

Prospective Epcon Communities franchisees should consider the potential costs associated with these mandatory upgrades and factor them into their financial planning. Although the franchisor estimates the annual cost to be $350, actual costs may vary depending on the specific hardware and software required and the supplier chosen by the franchisee. It is important to note that the franchisee is responsible for sourcing and obtaining the necessary upgrades themselves, as Epcon Communities does not provide assistance in this area.

This requirement ensures that all franchisees operate on compatible systems, facilitating communication, data sharing, and access to the franchisor's online support system. However, franchisees should be aware of the ongoing financial commitment and the potential for unexpected expenses if the required upgrades exceed the estimated annual cost. It is advisable to discuss these requirements in detail with existing franchisees to gain a better understanding of the typical upgrade cycle and associated costs.