Need a Home Services Contract in Ohio? AroundWire Can Help

In Ohio, contracts for home services—such as repairs, remodeling, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work—are typically required to be in writing, especially for projects exceeding $1,000 or involving residential construction. State law does not mandate a standard form, but contracts must clearly specify the scope of work, materials, costs, estimated start and completion dates, and payment schedules. Contractors must hold appropriate state or local licenses, particularly for specialized trades (e.g., electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians), and may need to register with local municipalities. Ohio’s Home Solicitation Sales Act requires a three-day right of rescission for contracts signed at a consumer’s residence, which must be disclosed in the contract. Insurance obligations usually include proof of general liability and, where applicable, workers’ compensation coverage. Payment terms often follow a deposit upon contract signing (commonly limited to a percentage of the total) with remaining payments tied to project milestones or completion. Risk factors include change orders, unforeseen site conditions, and compliance with building codes and permit requirements. Dispute resolution in Ohio commonly favors mediation or arbitration clauses before litigation. Local statutes and consumer protection laws, such as the Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act, influence contract structure and require clear, honest representations of services and costs. Failure to adhere to these norms can result in contract unenforceability or regulatory penalties.