Everyone wants to save money when setting up a new business. However, when the business needs to get permits from a building department, hiring a franchise architect and investing some money up-front will save you time and money in the end.
Three of most frequent questions we are asked by new franchisees are:
1. Do I need to have new architectural / design drawings created for my location?
The short answer is yes. And it will save you time and money in the long run. A franchise architect will work with local building departments to get your permits as quickly as possible. In addition, a franchise architect will make sure that your new location includes the unique and defining brand concepts that the franchisor has developed, to help maximize your profits.
Each franchise concept has equipment and design requirements that must be included in all locations, no matter what size and shape they are.
A franchise architect understands the unique requirements of a franchisor and how best to design a store layout that takes into account everything from table placement to a register height to ADA requirements to A/C for bathrooms.
2. Why do I need original architectural plans created for my location?
Every city and state in the country has its own minimum building code requirements that must be met.
Building departments do not allow drawings from one location to be used for another location. They cannot be photocopied and re-signed. Each set of architectural drawings that are submitted to a building department must be original and drawn by an architect who is licensed in that state.
The architect must personally sign and seal the plans in order for them to be accepted by a building department during the permitting process.
After a building department reviews the plans, they often return comments that need to be addressed before the plans are approved.
When you work with a franchise architect these comments will be sent directly to the architect who will quickly answer them and work with you to correct any changes that may need to be made to the plans.
This direct relationship between the franchise architect and building department will save you time, headaches and money.
3. Could a franchise architect help me save money on my retail lease?
Yes. If a franchise architect is brought into a project before a lease is signed they will often save you money on construction costs (plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems, fire sprinklers, fire alarm systems, finishes, etc.). In addition, if they are good, they can often get you additional tenant improvement dollars to correct existing conditions.
Our clients realize savings on average of 5-8% for build-outs in existing spaces and also consistently see savings in new spaces.
Lasky Architect, P.A. has been providing franchise architectural services for over 20 years and is licensed in 30 states & D.C. We would be happy to share our knowledge and experience with you and help you save time and money as you begin the journey to becoming a franchisee.
