(CLEVELAND, Ohio)—Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine announced that his office has filed a lawsuit against Cleveland-based Family Paving & Cement LLC for multiple violations of consumer law, including failure to deliver and shoddy work.
“Consumers paid this company thousands of dollars for driveway paving or general home improvement work that either was never delivered or was done in a shoddy manner,” Attorney General DeWine said. “Previous attempts to resolve the issues have failed, leaving us no choice but to file this lawsuit.”
Family Paving & Cement’s principal place of business is 13938-A Cedar Rd., #250 University Heights, Ohio.
The Ohio Attorney General’s Office has received four consumer complaints against the business since August 2009. In the complaints, consumers report total losses of more than $20,000. One consumer said she paid $16,400 for windows and siding work that was never completed.
The Attorney General’s lawsuit charges Family Paving & Cement and its owner with multiple violations of Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act, including failing to deliver, violating the Deposit Rule, performing shoddy work, failing to secure permits, and failing to register as a contractor. The lawsuit seeks injunctive relief, civil penalties, and restitution for consumers.
In light of the lawsuit, Attorney General DeWine warns Ohioans to be wary of contractors who:
- Do not have required licenses or permits
- Demand a large down payment (more than one third of the total cost)
- Use high-pressure sales tactics
- Have a poor reputation or no reputation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Refuse to provide written information
When selecting a home improvement contractor, consumers should research the company with the BBB and the Ohio Attorney General's Office. They should contact past customers to ask about their experiences with the company, and check with their local government to see if permits or licenses are required. If possible, consumers should get written estimates from multiple contractors before making a final selection.
Under Ohio's Home Solicitation Sales Act, consumers generally have three business days to cancel contracts for $25 or more when they sign the contract in their home or at a location other than the company's regular place of business. The seller must provide written notice of the consumer's right to cancel, and cancellations must be in writing.
Consumers who believe they have been treated unfairly should file a complaint at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or 800-282-0515.
– 30 –
Documents:
Family Paving and Cement Complaint
Media Contacts:
Lisa Hackley: 614-466-3840
Mark Moretti: 614-466-3840