Can I run a franchise from home?

Whether you can run a franchised business from home will very much depend on the nature of the franchise. In simple terms, if the franchise business does not need customers to visit the business premises - for example, a mobile franchise or driving school - the premises are not likely to be an important consideration and a franchisee can usually run the business from home.However, if the franchised business requires customers to visit premises - for example, a retail store or where the franchised business requires large pieces of equipment - then running the franchise from home will not be appropriate. In these circumstances separate premises will be required, which will usually have to be fitted out and maintained during the term of the agreement in accordance with the franchisor’s requirements. Also, the actual location is likely to be subject to the franchisor’s prior approval and many franchisors will provide assistance to its franchisees to find appropriate locations.