Of the 4 litigation cases initiated by the franchisor over the past 3 years, what were the specific grounds for each case (e.g., non-payment, breach of standards, non-compete violations)?
#1
Can you provide the outcomes of these 4 cases—were they settled, dismissed, or decided in the franchisor's favor, and what were the financial or operational consequences?
#2
Why does the franchise agreement include only 12 termination causes when the industry standard for home services franchises is 14-21? What specific protections does this provide to franchisees?
#3
Given the royalty rate of 5.0% is below typical (6.0-7.0%), are there any adjustments or escalations scheduled, or is this rate permanent for the franchise agreement term?
#4
Can you explain why the technology fee of $89.5/month is significantly lower than typical industry rates ($156.5-$599.0/month)? What services and support does this fee cover?
#5
The system requires achieving annual gross sales in the top 90% of franchisees beginning in year 2—how is this benchmark calculated, and what are the consequences for missing this target?
#6
What triggered the increase in closures from 7 units in 2022 to 11 units in 2024? Were these franchisor-initiated terminations or voluntary closures?
#7
Of the 14 units that transferred in 2024, were all transfers approved by the franchisor, and what screening process do you use for incoming franchise buyers?
#8
The non-compete restriction is 2 years within a 25-mile radius—how aggressively does the franchisor enforce this, and what happens if a former franchisee violates it?
#9
Can you provide a detailed breakdown of the financial obligations clause requiring $10/day late fees plus interest? What is the specified interest rate?
#10
Since territory is protected but not exclusive, under what circumstances would the franchisor open a competing location near an existing franchisee?
#11
What is the approval process and cost for products, services, and equipment sourced from designated sole-source vendors? Can franchisees propose alternative suppliers?
#12
The median gross sales of $1,084,793 is above typical—what percentage of franchisees actually achieve this level of revenue, and what are the factors distinguishing high performers?
#13
What support and training does the franchisor provide to help new franchisees reach the top 90% sales target required in year 2?
#14
Are there any discrepancies between the franchise agreement terms and the actual practices described by current franchisees regarding territory protection or operational control?
#15
What is the renewal fee of $5,000 used for, and are there any other costs or conditions associated with exercising the renewal option?
#16
How many franchisees have failed to renew at the end of their initial 10-year term, and what were their stated reasons?
#17
Can you provide references from at least 10 franchisees, including both high performers and those at or below median sales, to discuss their actual experience with litigation, enforcement, and support?
#18
Joint and several personal guarantees are required from all owners holding 5% or more—does this include spouses, and under what circumstances could the franchisor pursue personal assets in case of default?
#19