For a Dog Haus franchise purchased in Washington, where will the arbitration or mediation site be located?
Dog_Haus 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 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 87–328)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Dog Haus's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, specifically the Washington Addendum to the Franchise Agreement, the location for arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington 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. This addendum recognizes the requirements of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.
This means that if a Dog Haus franchisee in Washington has a dispute with the franchisor that goes to arbitration or mediation, the proceedings will occur within Washington unless both parties agree to an alternative location. The arbitrator or mediator can also determine the location. This provides a level of convenience and protection for franchisees in Washington, as they are not forced to travel to another state for dispute resolution.
Additionally, the Washington Addendum states that 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. This clause reinforces the franchisee's right to pursue legal action within their home state under specific circumstances, further safeguarding their interests.
It is important for prospective Dog Haus franchisees in Washington to understand these provisions, as they outline the legal framework governing dispute resolution and protect their rights under Washington law. Franchisees should consult with legal counsel to fully understand the implications of these clauses and how they apply to their specific situation.