Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Bumble Roofing franchise purchased in Washington?
Bumble_Roofing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation. In addition, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 43–45)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bumble Roofing's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a franchise in Washington and a dispute arises requiring arbitration or mediation, the location for these proceedings will be in one of three places. The primary location is within the state of Washington. Alternatively, the proceedings can occur at a location mutually agreed upon by both Bumble Roofing and the franchisee at the time of the arbitration or mediation. Finally, the location can be determined by the arbitrator or mediator during the arbitration or mediation process itself.
This stipulation is part of an addendum to the franchise agreement that specifically addresses Washington state law. This addendum takes precedence over any conflicting terms in the standard franchise agreement. This ensures that the arbitration or mediation adheres to Washington's legal requirements and provides some protection to the franchisee.
It is important to note that while the franchise agreement may generally require disputes to be resolved through arbitration or mediation, the Washington addendum modifies this to provide specific location options. Additionally, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
Prospective Bumble Roofing franchisees in Washington should carefully review this addendum with legal counsel to fully understand their rights and obligations regarding dispute resolution. Understanding these location options can be crucial in managing the costs and logistics associated with resolving any potential disputes with Bumble Roofing.