Does Michigan law require Deer Solution to include a renewal provision in its franchise agreement?
Deer_Solution Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Michigan FDD Amendment
Amendments to the Deer Solution Franchise Disclosure Document
THE STATE OF MICHIGAN PROHIBITS CERTAIN UNFAIR PROVISIONS THAT ARE SOMETIMES IN FRANCHISE DOCUMENTS.
IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING PROVISIONS ARE IN THESE FRANCHISE DOCUMENTS, THE PROVISIONS ARE VOID AND CANNOT BE ENFORCED AGAINST YOU.
- A.
A prohibition of your right to join an association of Franchisees.
- B.
A requirement that you assent to a release, assignment, novation, waiver, or estoppel that deprives you of rights and protections provided in this act.
This shall not preclude you, after entering into a Franchise Agreement, from settling any and all claims.
- C.
A provision that permits us to terminate a franchise before the expiration of this term except for good cause.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 55–246)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
The 2025 Deer Solution Franchise Disclosure Document includes an amendment specific to Michigan, addressing certain provisions that are prohibited under Michigan law. However, the amendment does not explicitly state that Michigan law requires Deer Solution to include a renewal provision in its franchise agreement. Instead, it focuses on unfair provisions that, if present, are void and unenforceable in Michigan.
The Michigan amendment specifically highlights prohibitions against restricting a franchisee's right to join a franchisee association, requiring franchisees to waive rights or protections under the act, and allowing termination of a franchise before its term expires without good cause. These points indicate that Michigan law aims to protect franchisees from overbearing or inequitable terms within the franchise agreement.
While the amendment ensures that certain unfair provisions are unenforceable, it does not affirmatively mandate the inclusion of a renewal provision. A prospective Deer Solution franchisee in Michigan should carefully review the franchise agreement to understand the terms of renewal, and consult with a legal professional to ensure full compliance with Michigan franchise laws.