What damages can a Zoomin Groomin franchisee seek under RCW 19.100.190 in Washington?

According to the 2025 Zoomin Groomin Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees in Washington are permitted to seek treble damages under RCW 19.100.190 in certain circumstances. This means that if a Zoomin Groomin franchisee successfully sues the franchisor and proves a violation covered by that statute, the franchisee may be entitled to three times the amount of their actual damages. This provision is in place to protect franchisees from potential unfair practices by the franchisor.

The FDD stipulates that any provisions in the franchise agreement that require franchisees to waive exemplary, punitive, or similar damages are void. There is an exception: such waivers are permissible if they are part of a negotiated settlement reached after the franchise agreement is already in effect, and both Zoomin Groomin and the franchisee are represented by independent legal counsel. This ensures that any waiver is the result of informed negotiation rather than a pre-arranged condition of the franchise agreement.

This information is crucial for prospective Zoomin Groomin franchisees in Washington because it clarifies their legal rights and protections under state law. It prevents Zoomin Groomin from enforcing clauses that might limit the franchisee's ability to seek full compensation for damages resulting from the franchisor's actions, unless specific conditions are met during a settlement. Franchisees should seek legal counsel to fully understand their rights and the implications of RCW 19.100.190 and related statutes.