For a Springhill Suites By Marriott hotel, who is responsible for completing the ADA certification?
Springhill_Suites_By_Marriott Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee delivers a certificate from its licensed architect, engineer or recognized expert consultant on Accessibility Requirements in the form attached to this Exhibit C as Attachment Two;
ATTACHMENT TWO TO EXHIBIT C
ADA CERTIFICATION
(to be completed by Franchisee's licensed architect, engineer, or ADA consultant)
In connection with the [NAME AND LOCATION OF HOTEL] (the "Hotel"), I hereby certify to [FRANCHISEE] and to [FRANCHISOR] that:
[For an "historic hotel" insert: The Hotel [is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under the National Historic Preservation Act] [has been designated as historic under State or local law] [is a qualified historic building under the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards] (an "historic hotel");
I have used professionally reasonable efforts to ensure that the Hotel complies with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA") [For an "historic hotel" insert: as applicable to an historic hotel], and all other related or similar state and local laws, regulations, and other requirements governing public accommodations for persons with disabilities in effect at the time that this certification is made; and
In my professional judgment, the Hotel does in fact comply with such requirements.
Source: Item 16 — FINANCING OF THE HOTEL (FDD pages 206–257)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Springhill Suites By Marriott FDD, the franchisee is responsible for providing the ADA certification. Specifically, before a Springhill Suites By Marriott hotel can open, the franchisee must deliver a certificate from their licensed architect, engineer, or a recognized expert consultant on accessibility requirements. This certificate confirms that the hotel complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The ADA certification is formalized in a document (Attachment Two to Exhibit C) that requires a qualified professional to certify that the hotel meets ADA standards and all other related state and local laws regarding public accommodations for people with disabilities. This certification is made to both the franchisee and Springhill Suites By Marriott.
This requirement ensures that all Springhill Suites By Marriott hotels are accessible and compliant with disability laws, which protects both the brand's reputation and the rights of guests. The franchisee bears the responsibility of engaging the appropriate professionals and ensuring that the hotel meets all necessary accessibility standards before commencing operations. This is a standard practice in the franchise industry, where franchisees are generally responsible for ensuring their locations comply with all applicable laws and regulations.