(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today announced a lawsuit against Columbus-based home improvement contractor Steven DeMatteo, doing business as DeMatteo Stucco and Stone, for violations of Ohio consumer law.
“This spring, I want to remind consumers how important it is to check out a home improvement contractor before making any payments,” DeWine said. “In this case, consumers paid the business for services they never received or for work that was done poorly.”
According to the Attorney General, DeMatteo took money from consumers for various home improvement jobs, including repairing stone and stucco. After accepting payment, the business either failed to deliver or performed shoddy work.
In the lawsuit, the Attorney General charges DeMatteo with violating Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act. Counts include failure to deliver, performing substandard and shoddy work, and violating the Deposit Rule by accepting deposits without providing consumers with a dated receipt. The lawsuit seeks injunctive relief, civil penalties, and consumer restitution.
DeWine encourages consumers to research a business with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and Better Business Bureau before making any payments. Consumers also should check with the Ohio Secretary of State to determine whether a business is registered with the state.
Consumers who believe they have been treated unfairly should file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or by calling 800-282-0515.
Documents:
Copy of lawsuit (PDF)
Media Contacts:
Lisa Peterson-Hackley: 614-466-3840
Dan Tierney: 614-466-3840