Lawn Squad
Lawn Squad offers weed control, lawn care, and related services through franchised locations. Known for comprehensive outdoor maintenance solutions, it operates in the landscaping and groundskeeping industry.
Lawn Squad franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a LAWN SQUAD franchise ranges from $93,930 to $132,766. This includes a base initial franchise fee of $45,000 and an additional amount that must be paid to the franchisor or its affiliates, which is $52,600 [p.1].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is a non-refundable amount due upon signing the agreement. For a territory with up to 100,000 single-family dwelling units, the base fee is $45,000. Additional single-family dwelling units beyond 100,000 cost an additional $0.45 per unit, with a maximum of 150,000 units [p.15].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee is based on a percentage of franchisee sales, paid monthly [p.95]. Advertising fees, including national advertising fund (NAF) contributions, also apply and are generally billed monthly [p.186]. These fees are recognized as revenue when the underlying franchisee sales occur or as billable expenses [p.186].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The duration of the initial franchise agreement isn't specified in these excerpts. However, upon expiration, you have the option to continue the franchise relationship for one additional term of ten years, subject to meeting certain conditions as outlined in [p.116].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The provided FDD sections do not detail the process or requirements for selling or transferring a franchise.
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
According to [p.228], a franchisor can terminate a franchise prior to expiration only for good cause, which includes the failure of the franchisee to comply with any lawful provision of the franchise agreement and to cure such failure after being given written notice and a reasonable opportunity (no more than 30 days) to do so. [p.246] also mentions that the franchisee can terminate the agreement under grounds permitted by state law, but it does not specify the franchisor's grounds for termination beyond good cause.
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
You do not receive an exclusive territory [p.52], but you are granted a protected territory during the term of your Franchise Agreement, provided you comply with certain conditions [p.52]. This means the franchisor will not operate a business under the Marks and System in your Territory or authorize others to do so within it, except for specific circumstances [p.52-56].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides a Training Program conducted by experienced personnel under the direction of their President, Business Analyst, Director of Operations, and Account Service Manager. This training uses the Operations Manual as a reference. Ongoing support includes Technology Fees covering services like branded email accounts, operational support, and other systems including the Franchisee Portal [p.34].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor may provide financial performance information if there is a reasonable basis for it and if it includes actual records of existing outlets or supplements the information provided in Item 19. However, this information does not reflect costs such as sales, operating expenses, or other deductions needed to determine net income. [p.217]
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are required to follow pricing guidelines set by the franchisor and must participate in promotional activities as prescribed. The FDD does not specify what you are restricted to selling, but it does state that you may have to buy or lease items from the franchisor or a limited group of suppliers designated by them [p.3].