(DAYTON, Ohio) – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today announced a lawsuit against a Springfield home improvement contractor accused of failing to deliver promised services to consumers.
The lawsuit charges David D. Rose, who did business as All-Star Powerhouse Disciples Landscaping and Tree Service, with violations of Ohio’s consumer laws.
“Consumers gave this contractor thousands of dollars for work that was not performed as promised,” Attorney General DeWine said. “While we attempt to resolve these types of complaints out of court, when months go by with no resolution for consumers, we must seek justice through the court system.”
All-Star Powerhouse Disciples Landscaping and Tree Service offered tree cutting and lawn services. A total of 15 consumers filed complaints saying they paid for work that was not completed. The Attorney General’s lawsuit, filed in Montgomery County, charges Rose with failure to deliver, performing shoddy work, violating the Home Solicitation Sales Act, and failing to register his business name with the Ohio Secretary of State.
In the lawsuit, the Attorney General seeks restitution for consumers, an injunction to stop further violations, and civil penalties.
Consumers can help protect themselves from unscrupulous contractors by taking the following steps:
- Check contractors’ reputations with the Ohio Attorney General's Office and the Better Business Bureau.
- Get written estimates from several contractors before making a final decision.
- Get all promises in writing. Make sure the written contract includes the start date and end date and an itemized list of all costs and services.
- Be wary if the contract requires a large down payment, such as half of the total cost, or requires that you write the check directly to the contractor instead of his or her company.
- Keep in mind that door-to-door sales contractors are required to give you a three-day right to cancel and cannot begin the work until the three-day period ends.
Consumers who believe they have been treated unfairly should contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at 800-282-0515 or www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov.
-30-
Additional Resources:
Copy of Lawsuit (PDF)
Media Contacts:
Dan Tierney: 614-466-3840
Eve Mueller: 614-466-3840