Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Clear Pest Pros franchise purchased in Washington?
Clear_Pest_Pros 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 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 67–68)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Clear Pest Pros's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, for any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the location will be in the state of Washington. However, there are exceptions. The arbitration or mediation site can be a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation. It can also be determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation.
Additionally, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee has the option to initiate legal action or proceedings in Washington. This applies to cases arising from the sale of franchises or violations of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.
This clause provides some protection to franchisees in Washington, ensuring that they are not forced to travel to a distant location for dispute resolution unless they agree to it. Franchise agreements often include clauses about dispute resolution, and it is important to understand your rights under both the agreement and any applicable state laws.