{¶ 2} On January 16, 2007, appellee filed a motion for default judgment due to appellant's failure to file an answer. By judgment entry filed January 17, 2007, the trial court granted the motion and awarded appellee as against appellant $3,496.00. On February 16, 2007, appellant filed a motion to vacate judgment. By judgment entry filed June 15, 2007, the trial court denied the motion.
{¶ 3} Appellant filed an appeal and this matter is now before this court for consideration. Assignment of error is as follows:
{¶ 6} It is uncontested that appellant was in default of the complaint and the entering of a default judgment was correct. However, appellant argues the trial court should have conducted an evidentiary hearing to determine the amount of damages. *Page 3
{¶ 7} Attached to appellee's complaint is a copy of the contract clearly stating on its face that $3,496.00 was due upon completion of the construction project. The trial court awarded this specific amount. Neither the complaint nor any affidavit stated whether or not the job had been completed. Had the issue of completion been averred in the verified complaint or in an affidavit provided to the trial court at the time of the default, a hearing would not have been required.
{¶ 8} Absent either of these two items, we find the award of a monetary amount was premature. The matter is remanded to the trial court for a hearing on damages wherein appellant's participation is limited to cross-examination on damages.
{¶ 9} The sole assignment of error is granted.
{¶ 10} The judgment of the Massillon Municipal Court of Stark County, Ohio is hereby reversed. By Farmer, J. Gwin, P.J. and Edwards, J. concur.