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What are my options in Ohio if someone has caused property damage to my business?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

If someone has caused property damage to your business in Ohio, you have a few options to seek compensation for the losses.

  1. Insurance Claim: If you have business insurance, you should immediately file a claim with your insurance provider for property damage. The insurance company will assess the damage and determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to under your policy. However, if you do not have business insurance, this option will not be available to you.
  2. Small Claims Court: If the damage is minor and the amount of compensation you are seeking is small, you may file a small claims court case against the person responsible for the damage. In Ohio, the maximum amount you can sue for in small claims court is $6,000. You do not need an attorney to represent you in small claims court, but it is recommended to consult with one to prepare your case and ensure you are following the court's procedures correctly.
  3. Civil Lawsuit: If the damage is extensive and the compensation you are seeking exceeds the small claims court limit, you may file a civil lawsuit against the person responsible for the damage. You will need to hire an attorney to represent you in court and prepare your case. You may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repairs, lost profits, and any other damages suffered as a result of the property damage.

It is important to note that there is a statute of limitations on filing a lawsuit for property damage in Ohio. You must file the lawsuit within two years of the date the damage occurred. Additionally, if the damage was caused by a government entity or employee, you may need to follow a different process to seek compensation, such as filing a claim with a government agency.

In summary, if someone has caused property damage to your business in Ohio, you should immediately file an insurance claim if you have business insurance. If not, you may file a small claims court case if the amount of compensation you are seeking is small, or a civil lawsuit if the damage is extensive. Remember to seek legal counsel, as the process for each option can be complicated and may have exceptions and limitations.