What internal body at IHG must approve changes to Even Hotels standards?
Even_Hotels Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
s of the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA") and the ADA Standards, in the form of Attachment "C" (the "ADA Certificate"). Such certification must confirm the qualifications of the architect and that the Final Plans, as designed, comply with Title III of the ADA and any other applicable accessibility laws, ordinances or requirements.
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- Submit Preliminary Plans and Final Plans to IHG in Adobe Acrobat PDF format, in accordance with IHG's electronic submittal guidelines, as outlined on www.ihgdesignconnect.com, along with hard copy samples for all finishes and fabrics.
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- Preliminary Plans and Final Plans must be written in English.
B. CONSTRUCTION.
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- Construction shall not begin unless and until IHG has approved the Final Plans and IHG has received the properly executed pre-construction ADA Certificate from Licensee. Thereafter, no change shall be made to the Final Plans without the prior written consent of IHG. Notwithstanding the foregoing, after the Final Plans have been approved, if in the course of actual construction any change in the Final Plans occurs, Licensee shall notify IHG promptly, and in no event later than ten (10) days after Licensee becomes aware of or should have been aware of any such change.
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- Licensee must notify IHG when their contractor has mobilized on site and proceeded with site work.
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- Licensee must complete "Ground Break" of the Hotel by the Ground Break Due Date set forth in Attachment "A") and continuously construct and furnish the Hotel in accordance with the Final Plans and the Standards so that the Hotel opens in the Brand System by the Opening Deadline set forth in section B.9. below. "Ground Break" means the completion of the Hotel building foundation through ground-level or the completion of the finished ground floor slab. Licensee must provide photo documentation of Ground Break to IHG within one day thereafter.
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Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 99–438)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Even Hotels Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain prior written consent from IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) before making changes to several aspects of the hotel's construction and operation. Specifically, this requirement applies to alterations of the Final Plans for construction, FF&E (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) specifications, and fire alarm and sprinkler systems.
This stipulation means that Even Hotels franchisees do not have complete autonomy over modifications to the hotel's physical structure, design, or safety systems. Any proposed changes, even those that might seem minor, must be submitted to IHG for review and approval. This process ensures that all Even Hotels properties maintain brand consistency and adhere to IHG's standards for quality and safety.
The FDD specifies that franchisees must notify IHG promptly, and in no event later than ten (10) days after the franchisee becomes aware or should have been aware of any such change. This notification requirement underscores the importance of proactive communication and adherence to the established approval process. Failing to obtain prior written consent from IHG could result in a breach of the franchise agreement and potential penalties.
For a prospective Even Hotels franchisee, this requirement highlights the importance of careful planning and due diligence during the construction and operation phases. Franchisees should factor in the time required for IHG's review and approval when considering any changes to the hotel. Additionally, maintaining open communication with IHG and adhering to the established submittal guidelines is crucial for ensuring a smooth and compliant operation.