Must a negotiated settlement be executed after the Zoomin Groomin agreement is in effect to be valid in Washington?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
A release or waiver of rights in the franchise agreement or related agreements purporting to bind the franchisee to waive compliance with any provision under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act or any rules or orders thereunder is void except when executed pursuant to a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and where the parties are represented by independent counsel, in accordance with RCW 19.100.220(2).
In addition, any such release or waiver executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a franchise is likewise void except as provided for in RCW 19.100.220(2).
Source: Item 9 — 01. Financial Statements and Exhibits. (FDD pages 68–156)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Zoomin Groomin Franchise Disclosure Document, in Washington, a release or waiver of rights within the franchise agreement is only valid under specific conditions. To be valid, the release or waiver must be executed as part of a negotiated settlement that occurs after the franchise agreement has already taken effect.
Furthermore, both parties, Zoomin Groomin and the franchisee, must be represented by independent legal counsel during the negotiation and execution of the settlement. This requirement ensures that the franchisee's rights are protected and that they are entering into the settlement with a full understanding of its implications. This is in accordance with Washington state law RCW 19.100.220(2).
Additionally, any release or waiver executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a Zoomin Groomin franchise is also void unless it meets the same conditions as above, as provided for in RCW 19.100.220(2). This ensures consistent protection of franchisee rights throughout the lifecycle of the franchise agreement, including renewals or transfers.