Home Depot to pay nearly $2 million to settle lawsuit overcharging customers, authorities say

LOS ANGELES (Gray News) – Home Depot has settled a civil lawsuit in Los Angeles County that accused it of overcharging customers and engaging in false advertising.

Home Depot will pay $1.9 million to settle a civil claim, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

The civil complaint said Home Depot charged customers prices higher than the lowest advertised or displayed price — a scanner violation.

Officials said this happens when the price on the item, or on the item’s label on the shelf, is not the same once the UPC code is scanned at the point of sale or checkout.

“False advertising and unfair competition are serious crimes that undermine consumer confidence and distort the marketplace,” said California District Attorney Gascón.

The lawsuit alleged that the home improvement company also engaged in unfair competition.

“When companies engage in deceptive practices, not only are they misleading consumers, they are also gaining an unfair advantage over companies that operate ethically and transparently,” Gascón said.

The company has not admitted any wrongdoing, and officials have said Home Depot has cooperated with the investigation.

Under the ruling, Home Depot is required to implement a price accuracy program that adds more audits and training, and eliminates price increases on weekends.

“This settlement is a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and underscores our commitment to protecting the rights of consumers in our community,” Gascón said.