How must a Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchisee identify themselves on legal documents?
Benjamin_Franklin_Plumbing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You are required to hold yourself out to the public as an independent contractor operating under this Agreement.
- **22.3.
Required Use of Legal Name**.
All legal documents, contracts, invoices, payroll forms, purchase orders, filings, permits, licenses, and other materials between Franchisee and customers, employees, contractors, landlords, vendors, suppliers, government agencies, and other third parties must identify Franchisee by its own company or legal name and, if the document requires a signature, be signed by Franchisee in its own company or legal name.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 88–312)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must operate as independent contractors. This means they are responsible for their own business operations and are not considered employees of the franchisor.
Specifically, the FDD states that all legal documents, contracts, invoices, payroll forms, purchase orders, filings, permits, licenses, and other materials must identify the franchisee by their own company or legal name. Furthermore, any document requiring a signature must be signed by the franchisee using their company or legal name.
This requirement ensures clarity in all business dealings and reinforces the franchisee's status as an independent entity. It is a standard practice in franchising to maintain a clear distinction between the franchisor and franchisee, particularly in legal and financial matters. This protects both parties and ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.