Can the franchisor provide detailed information on the 21 units that 'ceased other' in 2024? What specific circumstances led to these exits?
#1
Why did closures spike to 24 units in 2024 compared to 8-10 units in 2022-2023? What changes in market conditions, operations, or company policy may have contributed?
#2
The advertising fund rate of 3.0% exceeds the typical range of 1.0-2.0% for home services franchises. How is this fund allocated, and can the franchisor provide historical spending reports and ROI metrics?
#3
With 25 termination causes listed in the contract versus the typical 14-21 range, what are the 4 additional non-curable default provisions beyond standard defaults?
#4
The non-compete clause covers the territory, a 40-mile radius, and any zip code where the business served customers. How has the franchisor enforced this in practice, and are there documented cases of franchisees challenging this geographic scope?
#5
Can you provide specific examples of the 11 renewal conditions required for the 10-year renewal term? What percentage of franchisees historically fail to meet renewal requirements?
#6
The renewal fee is $5,000 and requires mandatory remodeling to current brand standards. What is the typical cost of this remodeling, and how is it calculated or estimated?
#7
What is the average annual revenue and profitability for units in the system? Does Item 19 data distinguish between top-performing units and those that exited?
#8
Given the 15.9% annual exit rate, what is the average lifespan of a franchised unit, and what are the primary reasons franchisees report for exiting?
#9
Can the franchisor provide a breakdown of the 13 net unit growth over the past year? How many were new franchise sales versus transfers from exiting franchisees?
#10
The mandatory arbitration clause requires JAMS arbitration with class action and jury trial waivers. What has been the average cost and timeline for arbitration disputes, and how many have occurred?
#11
The franchisor requires unlimited personal guarantees from all owners with 5% or greater equity interest. How is this enforced in practice, and what happens to franchisees' personal assets in case of default?
#12
What training and support programs exist for franchisees, and why does the Support & Training score (76/100) fall below the typical range of 79-90?
#13
Can you explain the risk factors that contributed to the Risk Factors score of 56/100, which is below the typical range of 58-76?
#14
What is the franchisor's policy on encroachment? Has the franchisor ever placed units within the 40-mile exclusive territory of existing franchisees?
#15
How does the technology fee of $350/month align with what competitors charge? What systems and services are included?
#16
If a franchisee is terminated for cause, what support or transition assistance does the franchisor provide, and are there escrow or security deposit provisions?
#17
Can the franchisor provide financial performance data comparing units that have survived 3+ years versus those that exited within the first 1-2 years?
#18
What ongoing operational control does the franchisor exercise through equipment, inventory, and supply specifications? Are franchisees required to purchase exclusively from franchisor-approved vendors?
#19