For Moes Southwest Grill, can I begin construction before the final Architectural Plans are accepted in writing?
Moes_Southwest_Grill Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
complete set of final Architectural Plans. We will promptly review the Architectural Plans and will either accept the Architectural Plans or provide comments to you on changes we require. After our initial review of your Architectural Plans at no cost and our review of one revised set of Architectural Plans that incorporate our required changes at no cost, we may charge a fee of $2,500 for each set of drawings we review that include any other modifications from the plans that we have previously accepted. Our review of the Architectural Plans is limited to ensuring your compliance with our Standards and is not designed to assess structural integrity or compliance with applicable Laws. You may not begin construction of the Franchised Business until we have accepted the final Architectural Plans in writing.
- 6.3 Construction, Inspection, and Government Approvals. You must begin the construction and equipping of the Franchised Business by the deadline specified in Section 6.5.B. (Construction Start Deadline). You must furnish us with all documents we request related to construction. You must obtain our written approval of any changes to the Architectural Plans before you implement the changes. We must have access to the Franchised Business while work is in progress and on its completion.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 92)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Moe's Southwest Grill's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, you are not permitted to begin construction of your franchised business until the final architectural plans have been accepted in writing by Moe's Southwest Grill. This requirement is in place to ensure that the construction aligns with the brand's standards and legal requirements.
Before architectural plans are approved, you must have your architect certify that the plans comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws. You must submit a complete set of final architectural plans to Moe's Southwest Grill at least 30 days before the Construction Start Deadline. Moe's Southwest Grill will review the plans and either accept them or provide comments for required changes.
After the initial review and one revision incorporating required changes, Moe's Southwest Grill may charge a fee of $2,500 for each subsequent review of modified plans. However, Moe's Southwest Grill's review is limited to ensuring compliance with their standards and does not assess structural integrity or legal compliance. It is your responsibility to ensure the plans meet all legal and structural requirements.
This process ensures that the Moe's Southwest Grill location adheres to the brand's standards and all applicable laws, but it also means that any delays in obtaining written approval for the architectural plans will delay the start of construction. As a prospective franchisee, it is important to factor in the time required for plan submission, review, and potential revisions when planning the construction timeline.