Is there a Franchise Compliance Questionnaire included in the Dryject franchise agreement?
Dryject Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- Questionnaires and Acknowledgments. No statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed or agreed to by a franchisee 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 the franchisor. This provision supersedes any other term of any document executed in connection with the franchise.
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- Prohibitions on Communicating with Regulators. Any provision in the franchise agreement or related agreements that prohibits the franchisee from communicating with or complaining to regulators is inconsistent with the express instructions in the Franchise Disclosure Document and is unlawful under RCW 19.100.180(2)(h).
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 50)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Dryject FDD, the franchise agreement may include questionnaires and acknowledgements. However, in certain states like Washington, these questionnaires cannot waive claims under state franchise law or disclaim reliance on statements made by Dryject. This means that while Dryject may use questionnaires, franchisees in those states retain their legal rights and protections regardless of what they sign in the questionnaire.
This protection is particularly relevant concerning potential fraud in the inducement, ensuring franchisees cannot unknowingly forfeit their right to claim they were misled. The FDD also states that any provisions prohibiting a franchisee from communicating with regulators are unlawful. This ensures franchisees can report concerns without fear of reprisal.
For prospective Dryject franchisees, especially those in states with franchise laws like Washington and Maryland, it's crucial to understand the implications of any questionnaires or acknowledgments they are asked to sign. While Dryject can use these tools, the FDD clarifies that franchisees' rights are protected, and they should seek legal advice if they have any concerns about the enforceability or implications of such documents.