United Water Restoration
United Water Restoration offers full-service restoration for water, flood, fire, storm, and sewage damage, specializing in expedient construction, repair, and remediation services for both commercial and residential customers. Known for quality service, this franchise is part of the disaster recovery and restoration industry.
United Water Restoration franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a UWRG Business franchise ranges from $304,000 to $940,000. This includes an initial franchise fee that ranges from $49,000 to $380,000 depending on the number of territories purchased. [p.1]
What is the initial franchise fee?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The amount of the initial franchise fee is not provided in the given FDD excerpts.
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The franchisee must pay a weekly royalty fee of 6% on Collected Revenue from Restoration/Remediation Services and 2% on Reconstruction Services. These payments are due by each Tuesday along with a revenue report. Additionally, minimum annual royalty payments based on Collected Revenue from Restoration/Remediation Services only are required, though the exact amount is not specified in these excerpts. [p.79]
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The provided FDD excerpts do not contain information about the duration of the initial franchise agreement or the renewal process.
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
Yes, you can transfer your franchise, but it requires approval from the franchisor for most cases [p.5]. You must also pay a transfer fee; it ranges from $2,000 to $40,000 depending on the circumstances of the transfer [p.96].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement if the franchisee fails to comply with any lawful provision of the franchise agreement and does not cure such failure within a reasonable time, which cannot exceed 30 days [p.5].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
You receive a protected territory but not an exclusive one [p.40]. You may face competition from other franchisees, outlets owned by the company, or other competitive brands controlled by them within your designated area [p.40]. Additionally, you can perform Restoration/Remediation Services in Open Areas with the company's prior written consent, but these areas are not guaranteed and can be reassigned at any time [p.40, p.75, p.76].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides an initial training program for up to 5 weeks, which includes training on marketing and selling restoration/remediation services, techniques for providing these services, operating a UWRG business, and methods for training personnel [p.81]. This training is mandatory for the franchisee (or their Manager) and one technician; successful completion is required before opening the business to the public [p.81]. Additionally, the franchisor may provide new training and refresher programs as they deem necessary when granting a successor franchise [p.100].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor is permitted to disclose actual or potential financial performance information if there is a reasonable basis for it and such information is included in the disclosure document [p.51]. However, the franchisor does not make any financial performance representations other than those specified in Item 19 of the FDD, nor do they authorize their employees or representatives to make such representations [p.57].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are required to buy certain materials from the franchisor or designated suppliers as specified [p.3]. Additionally, you may have to purchase specific items only from the franchisor due to supplier restrictions outlined in [p.84](a). The franchisor can also restrict your sales to certain services or products, particularly regarding Multi-Market Accounts, as detailed in pages [p.77] and [p.41].