In Washington, where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Bumble Roofing franchise dispute?
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, specifically the Washington Addendum, the location for arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington will be in one of three places. First, the arbitration or mediation can take place within the state of Washington. Second, the location can be a place mutually agreed upon by both parties at the time of the arbitration or mediation. Finally, the location can be determined by the arbitrator or mediator during the arbitration or mediation proceedings.
This means that franchisees in Washington have some protection regarding where disputes are resolved. Unlike some franchise agreements that mandate arbitration in the franchisor's home state, Bumble Roofing allows for arbitration or mediation to occur in Washington, or at a mutually agreed upon location. This can significantly reduce travel costs and logistical burdens for the franchisee.
However, it's important to note that the final decision on the location could rest with the arbitrator or mediator if an agreement cannot be reached. A prospective Bumble Roofing franchisee in Washington should consider the potential costs and inconveniences of arbitrating or mediating within the state versus a location chosen by the arbitrator, and should seek legal counsel to fully understand their rights and obligations under Washington law.