Scams & Consumer Issues in Ohio

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Ohio Law

Ohio Revised Code Section 1345.02 (Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act)

Ohio's Consumer Sales Practices Act (CSPA) prohibits suppliers from committing unfair or deceptive acts or practices in connection with consumer transactions, and prohibits unconscionable acts that take advantage of consumers.

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Procedural Details in Ohio

Ohio's CSPA (ORC Section 1345.01 et seq.) provides a private right of action under ORC Section 1345.09. Consumers may recover actual damages or $200 (whichever is greater) plus attorney fees. For "knowing" violations, consumers may recover three times actual damages but not less than $200. A critical feature of Ohio's CSPA: enhanced remedies (treble damages) are available only for acts that have been previously found to violate the CSPA in a published Ohio AG rule or court decision — meaning consumers must show the conduct falls under a "declared" violation. This narrows the scope of treble damages compared to other states. The statute of limitations is two years under ORC Section 1345.10(C). Ohio requires home improvement contractors to register with the Ohio Attorney General under ORC Section 1345.21 et seq. The Ohio AG maintains a searchable contractor registration database.

Ohio Agencies & Resources

Ohio Attorney General — Consumer Protection Section

Enforces the CSPA, maintains contractor registration records, and accepts consumer fraud complaints.

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Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board

Licenses HVAC, refrigeration, and hydronics contractors in Ohio.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is distinctive about Ohio's CSPA treble damages?

Under ORC Section 1345.09, treble damages are only available for violations that were previously declared by the Ohio AG in published rules or by courts in prior cases. Simply showing a deceptive act is not enough — the conduct must match a known declared violation. This limits the scope of enhanced remedies compared to many other states.

Does Ohio require home improvement contractor registration?

Yes. Ohio requires home improvement contractors to register with the Ohio Attorney General under ORC Section 1345.21. Consumers can verify contractor registration through the AG's website at ohioattorneygeneral.gov.

What is the statute of limitations for Ohio CSPA claims?

Two years from the date of the deceptive act or when you discovered it under ORC Section 1345.10(C).

What basic remedies can I recover under Ohio's CSPA?

Actual damages or $200 (whichever is greater), plus attorney fees. Treble damages require the conduct to be a declared violation — consult an attorney to determine if your situation qualifies.

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