What can Benjamin Franklin Plumbing instruct the franchisee to do to preserve the value of its options?

According to the 2025 Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Franchise Disclosure Document, to preserve the value of its options upon termination or expiration of the franchise agreement, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing may issue written instructions to the franchisee. The franchisee is then required to comply with these instructions, which may include refraining from, delaying, or reversing actions required under Section 17.2 of the agreement.

Section 17.2 outlines the franchisee's responsibilities upon termination or expiration, such as ceasing operation of the franchised business, withdrawing advertising, removing signs and graphics displaying Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's marks from the approved location and service vehicles, and making other changes to dissociate the business from the Benjamin Franklin Plumbing system.

By issuing specific written instructions, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing aims to maintain the value of its options, which include the right to acquire the lease for the approved location, purchase furnishings, fixtures, vehicles, equipment, and signs, and obtain customer agreements and related information. This ensures a smooth transition and protects Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's interests in the event of a franchise termination or expiration.

This clause gives Benjamin Franklin Plumbing significant control over the franchisee's actions during the termination or expiration process, potentially impacting the franchisee's ability to continue operating a similar business independently. Franchisees should carefully consider these obligations and seek legal counsel to understand their rights and responsibilities under the franchise agreement.