Leading law firms are investigating a possible class action lawsuit against California Home Depot stores for deceptive business practices. Two similar lawsuits have already been filed in the county courts of Illinois and Florida. These lawsuits allege that Home Depot stores automatically charges a 10% Damage Fee to all equipment rentals or tool rentals without disclosing that this fee is optional. This fee acts as insurance to protect the customer against charges from accidental equipment damage. This practice is deceptive and many feel is a violation of consumer rights.
The fee has been listed as a "tax", and in some occasions, even if a customer has asked that the fee be removed, Home Depot has refused to do so.
It is also alleged that the company charges the damage fee on tool rentals such as wrenches, that are almost impossible to damage.
Home Depot Damage Fee Lawsuit In the News
May-09-06: California consumers need to be warned of an undisclosed damage fee that is charged to them on all Home Depot equipment and tool rentals. [
LAS]
Jan-01-06: Home Depot has allegedly been secretly adding a 10% fee to rental equipment and tools without telling consumers. [
SPRAWL-BUSTERS]
Dec-30-05: Home Depot has been accused of adding a 10% damage fee to all equipment rentals without telling customers the charge is optional. [
LAW.COM]
Register your Home Depot Complaint
If you have rented tools or equipment from Home Depot and were charged a 10% "Damage Waiver" without accepting or declining the fee, you may qualify for damages or remedies that may be awarded in a possible class action or lawsuit. Please click the link below to submit your complaint.
Posted on Jan-5-06
Updated on Nov-15-06
