Is Clear Pest Pros obligated to protect or defend its copyrights?

According to Clear Pest Pros's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Clear Pest Pros is not obligated to protect or defend its copyrights. However, Clear Pest Pros may choose to do so if it believes it is in the best interest of the Clear Pest Pros system. Clear Pest Pros claims copyrights in its Operations Manuals, System Standards, advertising materials, Clear Pest Pros CRM, business forms, videos, CDs and other printed and advertising material used in operating the System, though these copyrights have not been registered with the United States Registrar of Copyrights.

As a Clear Pest Pros franchisee, you are required to use these copyrighted items only as specified by Clear Pest Pros and only while operating your Clear Pest Pros business. If Clear Pest Pros requires you to modify or discontinue using any of its copyrighted material, you must comply, and Clear Pest Pros is not obligated to compensate you for any resulting losses or expenses. You must also promptly inform Clear Pest Pros if you become aware of any unauthorized use of its proprietary information.

This lack of obligation to protect copyrights is a potential risk for franchisees. If a third party infringes on Clear Pest Pros's copyrights, Clear Pest Pros is not required to take action, which could potentially harm the brand and, consequently, the franchisee's business. However, Clear Pest Pros retains the right to act in what it deems the best interest of the system, providing some level of discretionary protection.