Joining a franchise can seem like a dream come true — the chance to run your own business, backed by a proven brand and business model. But before you jump in, there are essential legal and financial checks to complete. One wrong move can tie you into a long-term agreement filled with obligations you didn’t fully understand.
At ApexCounsel, located at Bourn Quarter, Wellington Way, Cambridge, CB23 7UE, we help new business owners across the UK make smart, informed decisions through free legal advice UK wide and downloadable legal tools.
📥 Download our Free Franchise Agreement Review Checklist
✅ Why a Franchise Checklist Matters
Franchise agreements are legally binding contracts — once signed, you are committed for several years. Before signing, it’s vital to know exactly what you’re agreeing to. This includes your rights, responsibilities, restrictions, and risks. Our checklist helps you spot potential issues, clarify vague clauses, and protect your investment.
🧾 Franchise Checklist Before Saying Yes
Here are the key items every potential franchisee should review:
1. Understand All Costs Involved
Franchises come with upfront and recurring costs. These include:
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Initial franchise fee
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Ongoing royalties
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Marketing contributions
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Training fees
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Equipment or software costs
If you’re unsure about any fees, speak to us for free legal advice before you commit.
📞 Call ApexCounsel: 0330 057 5898
2. Clarify Your Territorial Rights
Are you the only franchisee in your area? Or can the franchisor sell nearby or online in the same territory?
Exclusivity clauses matter more than most new owners realise. Use our Franchise Legal Risk Assessment Guide (UK & US) to see how these terms affect your profitability.
📥 Download the Free Risk Assessment Guide
3. Review Intellectual Property & Branding Rights
You’re licensing the brand — not buying it. Be clear on:
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How you can use the logo and name
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Who owns the trademarks
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What happens if the brand is rebranded or sold
We offer free intellectual property legal advice and free trademark legal advice to help you navigate these sections.
👉 Browse Free Legal Documents & Templates
4. Training and Support Clauses
Don’t assume the franchisor will support you after launch unless it’s clearly written into the agreement. Double-check:
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Length and scope of initial training
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On-going support guarantees
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Any extra costs involved
5. Termination and Exit Terms
Ask yourself: What happens if things don’t work out?
Exit clauses often come with penalties or non-compete terms. You may not be able to resell or exit easily.
We offer free contractor legal advice for business operators and franchisees who want help understanding these clauses.
📞 Contact ApexCounsel: 0330 057 5898
6. Restrictions on Operations
Many franchisors control how you run your business. This might include:
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Required suppliers
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Product/service pricing
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Marketing materials
Understand how much flexibility you’ll have — or don’t have — as a franchisee.
🛠 Use Our Legal Tools to Stay Protected
At ApexCounsel, we make legal support accessible. Whether you’re reviewing a contract or drafting new terms, our platform lets you:
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Create legal documents online free
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Make legal documents online free
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Use our free legal documents tailored for small businesses and franchisees
👉 Start with Our Free Templates
📍 Our Location and Contact Info
Need to speak to someone about your franchise agreement? We’re happy to help.
📍 ApexCounsel
Bourn Quarter, Wellington Way, Cambridge, CB23 7UE
📞 Phone: 0330 057 5898
🌐 Visit Our Website
✅ Final Thought: Go Slow to Go Far
Franchising is a big commitment — but it can also be a smart, strategic move if approached with caution. With the right legal checks in place, you can move forward confidently and protect your investment.
📥 Download our Free Franchise Agreement Review Checklist
📘 Get the Franchise Legal Risk Assessment Guide (UK & US)
ApexCounsel – Providing Clear, Simple, and Free Legal Advice for UK Business Owners
