Are fees paid to Hydrodog or its affiliates refundable under any circumstances?

According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, all fees paid to Hydrodog or its affiliates are non-refundable under any circumstances once paid. However, fees paid to vendors or other suppliers may be refundable, depending on the specific policies of those vendors and suppliers. Hydrodog requires franchisees to pay all fees and other amounts due via electronic funds transfer (EFT) or similar means, and franchisees must complete Hydrodog's current EFT authorization form.

This non-refundable policy means that once a franchisee pays a fee to Hydrodog, they cannot get that money back, regardless of the circumstances. This could include situations where the franchisee changes their mind about opening the franchise, is unable to secure a location, or faces unforeseen financial difficulties. The franchisee bears the risk of these potential issues.

It is important for prospective Hydrodog franchisees to carefully consider their financial situation and business plan before paying any fees to Hydrodog. They should also inquire about the refund policies of any vendors or suppliers they will be working with, as those fees may be refundable under certain conditions. Understanding these policies is crucial for managing financial risks associated with the franchise investment.

While Hydrodog's fees paid to them are non-refundable, it is a common practice in the franchise industry to have non-refundable fees. This is because the franchisor incurs costs in providing services such as training, site selection assistance, and marketing support from the moment a franchisee joins the system. However, prospective franchisees should carefully review the FDD and consult with a franchise attorney to fully understand the implications of this policy.