Legal
Disclosure skim order
Use our Disclosure skim order to check franchise disclosure documents for missing facts and practical gaps before you sign anything or commit capital.
Who uses the Disclosure skim order
The Disclosure skim order is for anyone comparing franchise options and needing a way to pick out missing facts or unclear points in a disclosure document. It helps you prepare questions for franchisors, talk clearly with your family or partners, and bring a practical lens to dense legal packs.
Use it before you sign a franchise agreement or make any payment. Bring it along to meetings with your accountant or attorney. Questions of law or tax go to a registered attorney or accountant.
What the worksheet covers and how to use it
This worksheet lists key points drawn from the Consumer Protection Act and common gaps we see in South African franchise paperwork. Work through each item as you read the disclosure pack, making notes where facts are missing, unclear or not consistent with what you have been told.
Some people use it to map fees, costs, territory rights and support promises on one page to share with their accountant or family. You can mark a section as 'clear', 'missing', 'needs checking' or 'ask the franchisor'.
- Franchisor details, numbers and support organogram
- List of outlets and contact details
- Growth stats and solvency statements
- Fee structure, working capital and territory notes
- Vendor and stock partner rules
- Support, training and field visit details
- Assumptions behind projections
- Blank space for your notes and follow-up questions
What to do if you find a gap
If the worksheet flags a missing fact, unclear number or a gap in the support plan, note it for your next meeting with the franchisor. Raise these points before you sign. Under South African law, you must get a full, signed disclosure document at least 14 days before signing a franchise agreement.
If the document is missing key items required by CPA Regulation 3, ask the franchisor to supply them in writing. If you are not satisfied, pause and get advice from an attorney or accountant. It is common to revisit your fit check or capital plan at this stage.
Request your copy from us
Request the most up-to-date printable Disclosure skim order by reaching out to our team with your details. Tell us which category, region or capital range you are exploring.