I. [§ 12.1] Unfair Or Deceptive Trade Practices

• Jurisdiction: Maryland

I. [§ 12.1] UNFAIR OR DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES

John Smith called George Harris, a plumber, to fix his clogged kitchen sink. Harris inspected Smith's plumbing, and informed Smith that, due to damage caused by tree roots surrounding Smith's house, all the pipes in the house would need to be replaced. Unsophisticated in business and repair matters, Smith agreed. Upon Harris's request, Smith tendered in advance a cash payment of $10,000. Harris performed the work in a shoddy and unworkmanlike manner, causing Smith to seek additional assistance. By obtaining additional assistance, Smith learned that he did not need to replace all of his pipes, and that the use of a plunger would have repaired the sink drain, which was...