For an Engel & Volkers franchise purchased in Washington, where will the arbitration or mediation site be located?
Engel_Volkers 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 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER, AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 63–71)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Engel & Volkers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a franchise in Washington and a dispute arises requiring arbitration or mediation, the location of the proceedings will be determined according to the Washington Franchise Investment Law.
The arbitration or mediation site will be in the state of Washington. However, there are exceptions. The location can be a place mutually agreed upon by both parties at the time of the arbitration or mediation. Alternatively, the arbitrator or mediator can determine the location at the time of the arbitration or mediation.
Engel & Volkers franchisees in Washington also have the right to bring an action or proceeding in Washington if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement. This applies to issues arising from the sale of franchises or violations of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.