What experience level is required for the arbitrator selected for a Bumble Roofing franchise dispute?

According to Bumble Roofing's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, any dispute that goes to arbitration requires that the arbitrator have at least five years of experience in franchise law. The arbitrator is selected from a panel of neutral arbitrators provided by the American Arbitration Association and chosen using the striking and ranking method. The arbitration will be held in the city where Bumble Roofing's corporate headquarters is located, which is currently Richmond, Virginia.

The arbitrator's fees are to be divided equally between Bumble Roofing and the franchisee. The arbitrator does not have the authority to amend or modify the terms of the franchise agreement. The decision made by the arbitrator is considered final and binding for both parties and can be enforced by a court with subject matter jurisdiction in the state where the arbitration occurred.

It is important to note that mediation is required before arbitration, with Bumble Roofing covering the costs of the first four hours of mediation. However, neither mediation nor arbitration is required for disputes involving amounts due to Bumble Roofing from the franchisee, the franchisee's use of Bumble Roofing's marks or confidential information after termination, or Bumble Roofing's right to seek injunctive relief.