Sniff Out Asphalt Scammers With This 5-Question Checklist

Oddly, many residential & commercial folks are in a rush to get their asphalt driveways in tip-top shape by the end of the year so that their New Year events can keep up with the awe and gathering plans. The sad bit is that clients who are unfamiliar with the temperatures required for asphalt paving can be easily dragged into a paving scam.

Slacking paving contractors with their gypsy rigs are often seen frequenting neighborhoods in the off-season. You will notice, they mostly convince unsuspecting clients into a shady paving deal that leaves their pavement worse than before.

Affordable Sealing & Striping has a checklist of questions that should cross your mind when you encounter a paving contractor too good to be true in Laramie, WY.

1. Does The Contractor ‘Just’ Turn Up?

If you happen to open the door to a charismatic paving contractor who claims they have some ‘left-over’ asphalt from a neighboring job. That’s it; that’s the red flag right there. These scams begin with a verbal agreement to pave over, and then the asphalt runs out. At this point, the contractor offers prepaid asphalt to be delivered the next day, takes the cash, and never returns.

2. Do They Have A Local Portfolio?

Suppose the contractor seems to be supporting professional-looking paving equipment and a crew and turns up at your door. In that case, they could be legitimate as asphalt paving technologies have progressed to winter paving to some extent. However, ask them for a local portfolio, a business card, and online presence proof. If they can’t provide anything, you are entitled to shut the door in their face and inform the local authorities.

3. Is The Contract Documented?

Verbal agreements put clients at risk of paving scams. If the client has decided on one quotation and the job has begun, the shady contractor can easily claim a higher rate and threaten to sue you for unpaid services. Be smart; never agree to anything in pavement installation unless the business can be verified and cost breakdowns are provided.

4. Are they Asking for Payment In Advance?

Unsuspecting folks eager at the promise of a perfect driveway usually take the bait, hook, line & sinker by paying in advance. If you are greeted by a contractor who offers low paving rates, no documentation, and advance payment of funds, immediately decline.

5. Are You Being Offered Warranties?

Sometimes, even legitimate paving contractor businesses resort to unfair means of earning their livelihood. If you are offered an additional warranty provided you allow the contractor to seal your pavement after installation, you are about to be scammed. Asphalt should not be sealed for at least 90 days after installation. The contractor then uses sub-par materials and cutbacks to install a pavement & seal coat it with watered down tack oil, and charges you for the real deal. And now you know!

Affordable Sealing & Striping Inc. advises you to be wary of anyone suspicious turning up at your door with paving offers. You can contact us for winter asphalt maintenance if you need an honest paving contractor because winter is not ideal for paving new driveways.

Get your free estimates on services in Laramie, WY, & beware of the scammers! Happy New Year!

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