What is UWIN in relation to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchisees?
Benjamin_Franklin_Plumbing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
APPENDIX B-2 TO FRANCHISE AGREEMENT BRAND PROGRAMS
UWIN Customer Complaint Resolution Program
ATTENTION FRANCHISEES
You have been approved to participate in the UWIN Customer Complaint Resolution Program. Attached is your UWIN Participation Agreement and applicable guaranty, each of which includes terms and conditions of participation.
Once UWIN receives your original, signed agreement you will be sent the UWIN Welcome Packet. You will also be added as a contractor on the UWIN website.
UWIN PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT FOR FRANCHISEES
THIS UWIN PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT FOR FRANCHISEES, having an effective date of (the "Agreement"), is made by and between UWIN, LLC, a Florida limited liability company ("UWIN"), and the home services contractor identified on the signature page ("Contractor") who, in consideration of the promises set forth below, agree as follows:
1. NATURE AND SCOPE OF AGREEMENT
- 1.1 UWIN.
UWIN is a customer service resource that provides customers information and assistance with resolution and reparations concerning their transactions with participating home services contractors (the "Customer Complaint Resolution Program").
Participants in the Customer Complaint Resolution Program display UWIN's distinctive seal of approval and its associated marks, logos, and designs (collectively, the "Seal").
- 1.2 Contractor**.** Contractor is a franchisee of one of UWIN's affiliates (each, a "Franchisor") and, pursuant to its franchise agreement ("Franchise Agreement"), has obtained the right to use the Franchisor's system in conjunction with the operation of its home repair services business ("Contractor's Business").
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 88–312)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Benjamin Franklin Plumbing FDD, UWIN, LLC operates a Customer Complaint Resolution Program. As a Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchisee, participation in the UWIN program is available. UWIN serves as a customer service resource, offering information and assistance to resolve complaints related to transactions with participating home service contractors.
Franchisees approved to participate in the UWIN program will receive a UWIN Participation Agreement. Once UWIN receives the signed agreement, the franchisee will receive a Welcome Packet and be listed as a contractor on the UWIN website. By displaying the UWIN seal of approval, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchisees signal their commitment to customer satisfaction and complaint resolution through the UWIN program.
However, the FDD stipulates that UWIN will not exercise control over the franchisee's business operations. The franchisee's business will primarily be associated with the franchisee's trademarks and logos, not substantially associated with the UWIN seal. The franchisee is responsible for the operation of their business and is not relying on UWIN for advice or assistance.
The agreement between UWIN and the Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchisee establishes an independent contractor relationship. The franchisee is responsible for indemnifying UWIN against any claims arising from the franchisee's business operations or failure to comply with the UWIN agreement. The franchisee is also responsible for reimbursing UWIN for any remedial payments made to resolve customer complaints within 15 days of notification, with a potential past due service charge of 1.5% per month or the maximum interest rate permitted by law for late payments.