Under what circumstances is a Zoomin Groomin franchisee required to indemnify the Indemnified Parties?

According to the 2025 Zoomin Groomin Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee's obligation to indemnify, reimburse, defend, or hold harmless the franchisor or other indemnified parties is modified under certain conditions. Specifically, the franchisee is not obligated to indemnify, reimburse, defend, or hold harmless Zoomin Groomin or any other indemnified party for losses or liabilities if those losses or liabilities are caused by the indemnified party's negligence, willful misconduct, strict liability, or fraud.

This modification is based on Washington State law (RCW 19.100.190), which addresses franchisee protections. This statute reflects a broader trend in franchise law to protect franchisees from overreaching indemnity clauses that could expose them to liability for the franchisor's own actions or omissions.

In practical terms, this means that a Zoomin Groomin franchisee is protected from being held responsible for the franchisor's mistakes or intentional wrongdoing. However, the franchisee would likely still be responsible for liabilities arising from their own actions or the actions of their employees, provided that the franchisor is not also at fault. This clause aims to create a fairer balance of responsibility between the franchisor and the franchisee.