What must a licensee do regarding construction, furnishing, and opening requirements before IHG grants written approval to open and operate an Even Hotels location?

According to Even Hotels' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, before IHG grants written approval to open and operate an Even Hotels location, the licensee must fulfill several construction, furnishing, and opening requirements. The licensee must notify IHG in writing that all construction, furnishing, and opening requirements have been met and that the hotel is ready to open as a Brand System Hotel. The licensee must also employ a general manager and department managers who have successfully completed IHG's training programs. IHG's written approval is necessary for the hotel to operate as a Brand System Hotel and to establish the opening date.

Even Hotels requires that the hotel be constructed according to the Final Plans and FF&E Specs approved by IHG. IHG has the discretion to determine whether construction has been completed according to these plans. The licensee is responsible for correcting or replacing any changes made during construction that deviate from the approved design. The hotel cannot be opened for business under the Brand System until IHG has given advance written approval and acceptance of the hotel's construction, equipment, furniture, staffing, and training.

Before construction begins, the licensee must submit evidence of insurance, proof of possession of the premises, all required construction permits and licenses, and the proposed construction schedule to IHG. The licensee must also submit Preliminary Plans for IHG's review and approval. After construction commences, it must continue without interruption, and the licensee must provide monthly progress reports to IHG. The licensee must complete "Ground Break" of the Hotel by the Ground Break Due Date 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.

Furthermore, the licensee must submit all signage, shop drawings, guest room FF&E, and Public Area FF&E plans and associated specifications to IHG for review and approval no later than 30 days after Ground Break. Any changes to the Final Plans or FF&E Specs during construction must be promptly reported to IHG for approval. The licensee must also submit Life Safety shop drawings for fire alarm and sprinkler plans to IHG for review and approval no later than 30 days after Ground Break. At least 120 days before the Hotel opening date, Licensee will acquire the Hardware, Software, and communications capabilities specified in the Minimum Configuration.