Does the document specify any geographic limitations for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchises?
Benjamin_Franklin_Plumbing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
SAMPLE OF RELEASE TO BE SIGNED WHEN YOU: (A) RENEW YOUR FRANCHISED BUSINESS; (B)TRANSFER A FRANCHISED BUSINESS; (C) MODIFY THE TERRITORY OF A FRANCHISED BUSINESS; (D) LICENSE AN ADDITIONAL TERRITORY
Note: Where required by state law, this Release will be modified so that it does not apply to your rights under the state law. Please see Exhibit K to the disclosure document.
THIS GENERAL RELEASE DOES NOT APPLY WITH RESPECT TO CLAIMS ARISING UNDER THE WASHINGTON FRANCHISE INVESTMENT PROTECTION ACT, RCW 19.100, AND THE RULES ADOPTED THEREUNDER.
GENERAL RELEASE
THIS GENERAL RELEASE is signed by: (i) Benjamin Franklin Franchising SPE LLC ("Franchisor"); (ii) the BENJAMIN FRANKLIN PLUMBING franchisee named at the end of the document ("Franchisee" or "you"); and (iii) Franchisee's owners (the "Owners") as an express condition of Franchisee and/or the Owners: (1) (a) renewing, (b) transferring, (c) or modifying the Territory of their BENJAMIN FRANKLIN PLUMBING franchise, or (2) licensing an additional BENJAMIN FRANKLIN PLUMBING Territory.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 87–88)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
The 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing includes a sample of a general release to be signed when a franchisee renews, transfers, modifies the territory, or licenses an additional territory. This implies that there are defined territories for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchises, and these territories can be modified or expanded under certain conditions.
The general release indicates that franchisees may have the opportunity to modify their existing territory or license additional territories. This suggests that the initial franchise agreement likely defines a specific geographic area within which the franchisee is authorized to operate. The franchisor retains control over territory modifications and grants of additional licenses.
It is important to note that the release includes a statement that it will be modified where required by state law, so that it does not apply to rights under state law. Prospective franchisees should carefully review the franchise agreement and related exhibits to fully understand the scope of their exclusive territory and any limitations or conditions that may apply. They should also consult with a franchise attorney to ensure they understand their rights under applicable state laws.