Is a Churchs Chicken franchisee required to obtain satisfactory assurances that each Franchised Location is in compliance with the requirements of ADA?
Churchs_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- B. Cajun assumes no liability or responsibility for: (1) evaluation of the Franchised Location's soil for hazardous substances; (2) inspection of any structure on the Franchised Location for asbestos or other toxic or hazardous materials; (3) compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act or similar state laws ("ADA"); or (4) compliance with any other law.
It is Franchisee's sole responsibility to obtain satisfactory evidence and/or assurances that each Franchised Location (and any structures thereon) is free from environmental contamination and in compliance with the requirements of ADA.
- C. Franchisee shall not rely upon any opinions expressed by Cajun or any of its officers, directors, stockholders, employees or agents regarding structural integrity, safety or construction procedures, building codes or ordinances or other matters properly within the responsibility of Franchisee and its architect.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–406)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Churchs Chicken's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, it is the franchisee's sole responsibility to ensure that each franchised location complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Churchs Chicken assumes no liability or responsibility for ADA compliance.
This means a prospective Churchs Chicken franchisee must obtain satisfactory evidence and assurances that the site and any structures on it meet ADA requirements. This responsibility extends to ensuring the location is free from environmental contamination as well.
This requirement places the onus on the franchisee to conduct due diligence regarding ADA compliance. This may involve hiring experts to evaluate the site and provide the necessary assurances. The franchisee cannot rely on Churchs Chicken for opinions or guidance on matters related to building codes, ordinances, or structural integrity.