Thinking about buying a franchise? It’s an exciting opportunity, but also a serious commitment. Joining a franchise means entering into a long-term legal agreement — and if you don’t ask the right questions up front, you could face hidden risks later.

At ApexCounsel, located at Bourn Quarter, Wellington Way, Cambridge, CB23 7UE, we specialise in helping new and experienced business owners navigate franchise agreements with confidence. We provide free legal advice UK wide and offer digital tools to help you assess franchise opportunities safely and smartly.

📥 Download our Free Franchise Agreement Review Checklist

🤔 1. What are the total upfront and ongoing costs?

Franchise fees are just the beginning. Many new franchisees overlook ongoing royalties, marketing fees, equipment costs, and more. Always ask for a detailed breakdown and double-check it with a financial advisor or legal expert.

📍 2. Is the territory exclusive?

You need to know whether your franchise location is protected. Ask if the franchisor can open other branches nearby or sell online in your area. If you’re in the UK, this can seriously affect your long-term profits.

Need help with contract wording? We offer free contractor legal advice and resources.
👉 Browse Free Legal Documents

🔐 3. Who owns the intellectual property?

Most franchise agreements include a licence to use the franchisor’s brand, trademarks, and systems. But what happens if there’s a legal issue? Make sure your rights — and limitations — are clear.

📞 Get free intellectual property legal advice and free trademark legal advice at 0330 057 5898

🛠 4. What kind of training and support will I receive?

Many franchises promise support, but the details are often vague. Ask for specifics:

• Is training in-person or online?

• What happens after launch?

• Is ongoing support guaranteed in writing?

If you’re unsure, refer to our Franchise Legal Risk Assessment Guide (UK & US) for detailed insights.

📥 Download the Free Guide Here

⚖️ 5. Can I sell the franchise in the future?

Some franchise agreements include strict resale rules or approval clauses that limit your ability to exit the business. Ask:

• What happens if I want to sell?

• Is the franchisor’s approval required?

• Are there penalties for transferring ownership?

❌ 6. What are the termination clauses?

Franchises aren’t always forever. It’s crucial to understand the terms under which the agreement can be ended — by you or the franchisor.

📥 Use our Free Franchise Agreement Review Checklist to analyse your agreement in detail.
👉 Download It Now

📈 7. What is the franchisor’s success rate?

Ask to see a list of current and former franchisees. Speak to them if you can. Understand:

• How many units have closed in the last 5 years?

• What’s the average time to profitability?

• Is the franchisor financially stable?

📘 8. Are there restrictions on suppliers or products?

Some franchisors require you to purchase supplies only from approved vendors, often at a higher cost. Confirm what restrictions exist and how flexible they are.

📝 9. Have I reviewed the legal agreement thoroughly?

Never sign a franchise agreement without reviewing it with a legal expert. You can also create legal documents online free and make legal documents online free using our trusted templates for comparison and learning.

👉 Access Free Legal Documents Here

🧾 10. What happens if the franchisor is sold or changes ownership?

A change in franchisor ownership could affect your contract, support, or brand value. Ask:

• Is my agreement transferable?

• Can I opt out if ownership changes?

• What legal protections do I have?

📞 Need Legal Support? We’re Here to Help

At ApexCounsel, we provide expert legal guidance for franchisees across the UK and beyond. Whether you’re reviewing a contract or want to understand your rights, we’re ready to help.

📍 Visit: Bourn Quarter, Wellington Way, Cambridge, CB23 7UE
📞 Call: 0330 057 5898
🌐 Explore our Free Legal Resources

✅ Final Tip: Don’t Rush — Ask First

Franchising can be a brilliant business move — but only if you ask the right questions before signing. Use our Free Franchise Agreement Review Checklist and Franchise Legal Risk Assessment Guide (UK & US) to make sure you’re fully protected.

🔗 Download your free legal checklist now
💬 Questions? Call 0330 057 5898 for free legal advice UK

ApexCounsel — Helping You Build Stronger, Safer Business Foundations.