When setting up a new franchise, many business owners look for ways to minimize costs. However, when your new franchise location requires permits from the building department, investing in a franchise architect can save you both time and money in the long run.
Below, we address some of the most frequently asked questions from new franchise owners about architectural and design requirements:
1. Do I need new architectural plans for my franchise location?
Yes, and here’s why it’s worth it. A franchise architect can navigate local building departments to help you obtain permits quickly. This specialist also ensures that your new franchise location meets the franchisor's brand and design standards, known as franchise design requirements, helping to maximize profitability.
Every franchise brand has specific design and equipment requirements that must be met in each new location, regardless of the space's size or shape. A skilled franchise architect will ensure your store layout includes everything from ADA compliance to A/C needs, providing a streamlined path through the permitting process.
2. Why do my architectural plans need to be original?
Each city and state has unique building codes, especially in states like Florida, where regulations vary. Building departments mandate that architectural plans for a franchise be specific to each location. You cannot simply reuse plans from a different franchise location; instead, an architect licensed in the state, such as Florida, must draft, seal, and sign the drawings.
This requirement ensures that building codes are followed precisely. When a building department reviews plans, they may send comments that must be addressed before final approval. A franchise architect’s direct relationship with building departments can expedite these revisions, saving you time and avoiding potential delays.
3. Can a franchise architect help me reduce retail lease expenses?
Yes. Engaging a franchise architect before signing a lease can reveal opportunities to reduce construction costs, including plumbing, HVAC systems, and fire safety upgrades. Additionally, an experienced franchise architect may help secure additional tenant improvement allowances to fix existing issues at your new franchise location.
Many clients find that working with a franchise architect saves them 5-8% on build-outs in existing spaces and provides similar savings in new spaces.
Lasky Architect, P.A. has been serving franchise clients for over 40 years, offering expert franchise architectural services across 30 states, including our home base in South Florida. Our knowledge and experience can help you meet all architectural plans and franchise design requirements efficiently, so you can open your new franchise with confidence.
With over 40 years of experience and licensure in 30 states and D.C., Lasky Architect, P.A. brings deep expertise to franchise architecture. Let us help you simplify the permitting process and realize savings as you embark on your franchise journey.
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