For a Dryer Vent Squad franchise purchased in Washington, where will arbitration or mediation take place?
Dryer_Vent_Squad Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 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 51–207)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Dryer Vent Squad's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a franchise in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be in the state of Washington. However, the location can also be a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation. The arbitrator or mediator can also determine the location at the time of arbitration or mediation.
Additionally, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee in Washington 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 amendment ensures that Washington franchisees have the option to resolve disputes within their own state, providing a more accessible and potentially less costly legal process. It also acknowledges the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, giving it precedence in case of conflicting laws.