What effect does a statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgement signed by a Dog Haus franchisee in Virginia NOT have regarding claims under state franchise law?
Dog_Haus Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
No statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgement signed or agreed to by a franchise in connection with the commencement of the franchise relationship shall have the effect of (i) waiving any claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or (ii) disclaiming reliance on any statement made by any franchisor, franchise seller, or other person acting on behalf of franchisor. This provision supersedes any other term of any document executed in connection with the franchise.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 87–328)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Dog Haus's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a Virginia addendum clarifies the impact of documents signed by franchisees. Specifically, any statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgement signed by a Dog Haus franchisee in connection with starting their franchise does not waive claims under Virginia's franchise laws. This includes claims related to fraud during the initial franchise offering.
This means that even if a franchisee signs a document that seems to waive their rights, that waiver is not legally effective under Virginia franchise law. The franchisee retains the right to pursue claims against Dog Haus if they believe the franchisor violated state franchise laws or made fraudulent statements to induce them into investing in the franchise.
This protection is significant for prospective Dog Haus franchisees in Virginia. It ensures they cannot inadvertently lose their legal rights through standard paperwork at the beginning of the franchise relationship. This provision supersedes any conflicting terms in other documents, reinforcing the protection for franchisees under Virginia law.