AG Yost sues concrete contractor over unfinished work
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is suing a central Ohio contractor for allegedly abandoning concrete jobs and engaging in deceptive business practices.
The lawsuit, filed in Franklin County Common Pleas Court, accuses Blacklick resident Ronald Lewis — doing business as Ron Lewis Cement — of violating the Consumer Sales Practices Act (CSPA) and the Home Solicitation Sales Act (HSSA).
“Customers paid for a service but received little to no results,” Yost said. “They deserve some answers and for the work to be finished.”
Ten consumers lost nearly $70,000 combined after hiring Lewis for concrete-pouring projects. Though previously known for quality work, Lewis allegedly stopped completing jobs as of at least March 2024 even though he accepted upfront payments.
Two consumers reported that Lewis excavated their existing driveways but never finished the work. Others said he performed no work at all.
The lawsuit also notes that Lewis did not register his business with the Ohio Secretary of State, violating the CSPA, and did not provide customers with a required three-day cancellation notice, violating the HSSA.
The Attorney General’s Office is seeking restitution for affected consumers as well as civil penalties and injunctive relief.
AG Yost reminds Ohioans that, before signing a home-improvement contract, be sure to:
Check with local officials to see whether permits are required for any project.
Ask the contractor for references — and follow up on them.
Check whether any complaints have been filed against the contractor with the Better Business Bureau and/or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
Get written estimates from at least three contractors.
Verify your cancellation rights under Ohio law.
Ensure that the contract details:
A description of the work to be completed.
Any warranties or guarantees.
Any verbal promises made by the contractor.
Avoid any contract requiring a large down payment or requiring full payment before the project is completed and inspected.
Consumers who believe they have been taken advantage of by a home-improvement contractor should file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or by calling 800-282-0515.