Advice for Franchise Buyers.

Why Getting Franchise Advice Early Can Protect You

Buying a franchise can be an exciting way to run your own business with the support of an established brand. Getting early franchise legal advice helps protect your investment and long-term freedom. It can also be a major financial commitment. Franchise agreements are legally binding and can last many years, so the decisions you make before signing are critical.

Many first-time buyers do not realise how much control the franchisor has or how limited their options can become once the contract is signed. Getting independent legal advice early helps you understand your rights and risks before you commit.

Understanding Your Franchise Agreement

A franchise agreement sets out the rules for how your business will operate. It covers what you pay, what support you receive, and what limits apply to how and where you trade.

Having a franchise lawyer review your documents ensures you understand exactly what you are agreeing to. It also helps you spot clauses that may cause problems later, such as limits on selling your business, strict brand controls, or hidden ongoing fees.

What We Review in a Franchise Agreement

We provide clear, practical advice in plain English so you can make decisions confidently and avoid costly surprises. Our review focuses on:

• Franchise fees and payment obligations

• Territorial boundaries and exclusivity rights

• Termination and renewal clauses

• Brand standards, training, and operational requirements

• Restraints of trade and dispute resolution processes

If your franchise also involves a lease, employment agreement, or supply contract, we check those too so everything works together legally and commercially.

Tailored Advice for First-Time and Experienced Buyers

Every buyer has different goals. We tailor our advice to your experience, goals, and risk comfort level. Whether this is your first franchise or one of several, we help you:

• Understand your legal and financial obligations

• Ask the right questions during due diligence

• Identify warning signs in the documents

• Negotiate key terms where possible

• Make clear, confident decisions

Our guidance is realistic and grounded in experience. We have seen what makes franchises succeed or struggle in real life.

Where We Work

Our franchise law team is based in Wellington, Lower Hutt and Masterton. We work with franchise buyers across New Zealand and can support you fully by phone, email, or video wherever you are.

Questions We Often Get Asked About Buying a Franchise

Do I need a lawyer before buying a franchise?

Yes. Franchise agreements are legally binding and often complex. A lawyer helps you understand what you are committing to before you sign. We explain your rights, identify risks, and help you make informed decisions so you can move forward with confidence.

What should I check before signing a franchise agreement?

Before signing, check how long the agreement lasts, what you must pay, what support you receive, and how you can exit. We review the full agreement and disclosure documents to help you understand whether the offer is fair and sustainable for you.

Can I change the terms of a franchise agreement?

Some terms can be negotiated, especially around territory, renewal, or training requirements. We help you know which terms are flexible and how to approach the franchisor, so you protect your position without risking the opportunity.

What happens if the franchise does not work out?

Most franchise agreements include rules about selling or exiting the business. We review these clauses with you so you understand your options, potential costs, and the steps to take if your situation changes.

How can I tell if a franchise is a good fit for me?

A strong franchise should have a clear business model, open financial information, and supportive leadership. We help you ask the right questions and assess whether the opportunity aligns with your goals, skills, and risk comfort level.