Can a Deer Solution franchisee disclaim reliance on any statement made by the franchisor or their representatives in connection with the franchise relationship?

According to the 2025 Deer Solution Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee generally cannot disclaim reliance on statements made by Deer Solution or its representatives regarding the franchise relationship. This protection is included in amendments to the franchise agreement for franchisees in California, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, and New York.

Specifically, these amendments state that no statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgement signed by a franchisee can waive claims under state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or disclaim reliance on statements made by the franchisor or its representatives. This provision overrides any other conflicting terms in the franchise agreement.

This means that Deer Solution franchisees in these states retain the right to pursue legal action based on misrepresentations made during the franchise sales process, regardless of any disclaimers they may have signed. This protection is particularly important as it prevents franchisors from using contractual language to shield themselves from liability for misleading statements. Franchisees in other states may not have this protection, so prospective franchisees should consult with an attorney to understand their rights.