Are there any restrictions on statute of limitations for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act for a Chicken Guy franchise?
Chicken_Guy Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
As a result, any such provisions contained in the franchise agreement or elsewhere are void and unenforceable in Washington.
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- Questionnaires and Acknowledgments. No statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed or agreed to by a franchisee in connection with the commencement of the franchise relationship shall have the effect of (i) waiving any claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or (ii) disclaiming reliance on any statement made by any franchisor, franchise seller, or other person acting on behalf of the franchisor.
This provision supersedes any other term of any document executed in connection with the franchise.
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 40–46)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
The 2025 Chicken Guy FDD includes an addendum that addresses specific legal considerations for franchisees in Washington. It states that any provisions in the franchise agreement that require a franchisee to waive claims under applicable state franchise law are void and unenforceable in Washington. This includes claims related to fraud in the inducement or disclaiming reliance on statements made by Chicken Guy or anyone acting on its behalf.
This protection means that Washington franchisees retain their rights to pursue legal claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, regardless of any conflicting terms in the franchise agreement. The FDD also highlights that any statements, questionnaires, or acknowledgments signed by the franchisee cannot waive these rights.
This addendum ensures that Chicken Guy franchisees in Washington are not inadvertently relinquishing their legal rights through standard contractual language. Franchisees should consult with an attorney to fully understand their rights and the implications of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.