Evaluate the hvac franchise as a business
A recognizable brand does not remove local-market or execution risk. Review the disclosure document with qualified legal and accounting advisers, speak with current and former franchisees, and compare their experience with the sales assumptions supplied by the franchisor.
Rebuild the unit economics
Start with service calls, installations, maintenance agreements, equipment mix and seasonality. Deduct technician payroll, equipment, vehicles, parts, fuel, warranty work and marketing, plus royalties, brand-fund contributions, mandated software, renewal costs and local marketing. Use the actual proposed territory, lease and staffing plan—not system-wide averages—to estimate cash flow.
Franchise diligence questions
- What is included in the initial fee and opening package?
- Which suppliers, products, prices and systems are mandatory?
- How are territories, online sales and new locations handled?
- How many units transferred or closed, and why?
- What training and opening support is documented?
- What restrictions apply to renewal, transfer and exit?
Fund the full opening cycle
The capital plan should include vans, diagnostic tools, initial equipment, inventory and seasonal working capital, franchise fees, professional fees, pre-opening payroll and contingency. Model a delayed opening and a slower sales ramp so that working capital is not mistaken for spare cash.