For a Bens Soft Pretzels sublessee, what rights does the subtenant have to quiet enjoyment of the premises?
Bens_Soft_Pretzels Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 2.1 Demise of Premises. Sublessor hereby subleases the Premises to Subtenant solely for the purpose of operating a Ben's Soft Pretzels store pursuant to the terms and provisions of the Franchise Agreement and agrees that so long as Subtenant is in compliance with the terms hereof, of the Lease, and of the Franchise Agreement Subtenant shall have the right to quiet enjoyment of the Premises without hinderance or molestation by Sublessor.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 46–47)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Bens Soft Pretzels Franchise Disclosure Document, a subtenant has the right to quiet enjoyment of the premises without interference from the sublessor, provided they comply with the terms of the sublease, the lease, and the Franchise Agreement. This means that as long as the subtenant, or franchisee, is meeting their obligations under all three agreements, Bens Soft Pretzels (as the sublessor) cannot disrupt their business operations at the premises. This right is granted specifically for the purpose of operating a Ben's Soft Pretzels store.
However, this right is contingent on the franchisee's compliance with all relevant agreements. If the franchisee breaches any of the terms of the sublease, the lease, or the Franchise Agreement, this right to quiet enjoyment could be jeopardized. Additionally, the franchisee's rights are subject to the original lease between the sublessor (Bens Soft Pretzels) and the lessor (the property owner). The franchisee must look to the lessor, not Bens Soft Pretzels, for remedies if the lessor breaches the original lease.
In practical terms, this clause protects the franchisee from arbitrary actions by Bens Soft Pretzels that could interfere with their business. For example, Bens Soft Pretzels cannot suddenly decide to block access to the store or unreasonably disrupt its operations, as long as the franchisee is meeting their obligations. However, it's crucial for the franchisee to understand and comply with all three agreements—the sublease, the underlying lease, and the Franchise Agreement—to maintain this right. The franchisee should carefully review all three documents and seek legal counsel to fully understand their rights and obligations.