(CINCINNATI) – Attorney General Mike DeWine today sought restitution for consumers in the filing of a lawsuit against Jacob Wagers and James Sasser, of Trenton, Ohio, doing business as Ohio Insurance Assessments, with an office in Hamilton, Ohio. The roofing and siding company failed to deliver work on several occasions and did not provide refunds to consumers, according to the lawsuit.
"Ohio has laws to protect consumers and when they are harmed by poor workmanship or receive nothing at all for their money, we will take action to enforce those laws," said Attorney General DeWine.
The defendants solicited business door-to-door and accepted payments for repair and construction projects in several Ohio counties, including Butler. In addition to not performing any work, in other instances the work performed was shoddy and the quality of products used was poorer than what consumers had been told would be provided.
In addition, consumers were not notified by defendants of their right to cancel, a violation of the state's Home Sales Solicitation Act, according to the Attorney General's lawsuit.
The Attorney General seeks restitution for consumers harmed by the defendants, injunctive relief, and penalties.
Attorney General DeWine reminded consumers that when considering hiring someone for home-improvement or repair work, make sure there is a contract in writing and is signed by the consumer and the contractor. The contract should detail all of the necessary information for completing the work, such as:
- A complete description of the work to be done, timeframe, and the materials to be used.
- A provision requiring written approval for any changes.
- A clear statement explaining any contractor guarantee or warranty, and all of the contractor's oral promises.
- A provision stating the total cost for the work and the specific terms for payment of materials and labor.
- The contract should not have a requirement for a large down payment or payment-in-full until the project is complete and has been inspected.
Consumers who believe they have been treated unfairly by a business can file a complaint online at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or by calling 800-282-0515.
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Documents
Copy of Lawsuit (PDF)
Media Contacts
Dan Tierney: 614-466-3840
Mark Moretti: 614-466-3840