When is a release or waiver of rights valid for a Christies International Real Estate franchisee in Washington?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- **4.
General Release.** A release or waiver of rights in the franchise agreement or related agreements purporting to bind the franchisee to waive compliance with any provision under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act or any rules or orders thereunder is void except when executed pursuant to a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and where the parties are represented by independent counsel, in accordance with RCW 19.100.220(2).
In addition, any such release or waiver executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a franchise is likewise void except as provided for in RCW 19.100.220(2).
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 54–177)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Christies International Real Estate Franchise Disclosure Document, a release or waiver of rights within the franchise agreement or related documents is generally void if it requires the franchisee to waive compliance with any provision of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, or any related rules or orders.
However, there is an exception: such a release or waiver is valid if it is executed as part of a negotiated settlement after the franchise agreement is already in effect. In this case, both parties must be represented by independent legal counsel, and the agreement must comply with RCW 19.100.220(2), a specific section of Washington law.
Additionally, any release or waiver connected to the renewal or transfer of a Christies International Real Estate franchise is also void unless it meets the conditions specified in RCW 19.100.220(2). This provision aims to protect franchisees in Washington from unknowingly relinquishing their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.