You know that it’s important to only hire qualified contractors and service providers when it comes to doing any necessary work on your property. But how can you do this? How can you avoid being scammed by unscrupulous people hoping to take advantage of you and make a quick buck? There are some telltale signs, and we at Maisano Bros Paving offer the following suggestions, which come from a variety of sources, job sites, and contractors across the country. There are many scams out there. Here are ten that are tried most often. (Note: not in any particular order; just be aware! News sources are available by contacting our office.)
1. Leftover Asphalt Scam
Contractors may claim they have leftover asphalt from another job nearby and offer to complete your driveway for a significantly reduced price. The asphalt used in such cases is often near the end of its usable life, which means it may not set properly, leading to poor durability and rapid deterioration. Homeowners should be skeptical of any deal that seems too good to be true and verify the contractor’s claims before proceeding (Better Business Bureau).
2. High-Pressure Sales
Some unscrupulous contractors use high-pressure sales tactics to rush homeowners into making a decision. They may claim that a special price is only available if you commit immediately. According to a paving company in Illinois, legitimate businesses understand the importance of careful consideration and are usually willing to provide detailed quotes and wait for your decision .
3. Upfront Cash Payments
Be cautious of any contractor who demands a large payment in cash before starting work. This is a common tactic used by scammers to take the money and run. Reputable contractors will typically structure payments according to milestones or after the completion of the job, often accepting checks or credit cards, which offer more security for the consumer. In most states, licensing law requires this.
4. Vague Contractor Details
Scammers often provide vague or inconsistent details about their business. They may lack a permanent address, use unmarked vehicles, or have out-of-state license plates. A paving company in the Midwest suggests that consumers always verify the contractor’s credentials, check their physical address, and look for branded vehicles that suggest a legitimate business operation.
5. Unsolicited Offers
Professional asphalt companies do not normally solicit door-to-door. If a contractor appears without an invitation, offering to pave your driveway, it could be a sign of a scam. It’s essential to initiate contact yourself through trusted channels and verify the legitimacy of the business before agreeing to any services (Better Business Bureau)
6. Lack of Written Contracts
A legitimate paving project should always come with a detailed contract that outlines the scope of work, materials to be used, timelines, and costs. Be wary of contractors who do not provide a contract or only offer a vague agreement that doesn’t specify detailed job descriptions or payment terms. Legitimate, well-established companies will all tell you this.
7. Substandard Subsurface Preparation
Proper preparation of the subsurface is crucial for a durable driveway. Many contractors have run into scammers who may skimp on this part of the project, rushing the job and using inadequate materials, which can lead to significant problems like cracking and water pooling soon after completion, in their attempt to give a low bid.
8. Misrepresentation of Services
Most pavers across this country have found that scammers often exaggerate their qualifications or the scope of their services to win contracts. They might claim extensive experience, endorsements, or affiliations they do not possess. Always verify such claims independently and ask for references.
9. Unrealistically Low Bids
Extremely low bids can be a red flag. According to the BBB, such bids often mean the contractor plans to use subpar materials, avoid necessary site preparation, or engage in other cost-cutting measures that compromise the quality of the finished driveway. Compare bids from several contractors to understand what a reasonable price should be.
10. Incremental Commitment Scam
Some scammers engage homeowners slowly, starting with something small like a free assessment. A Midwest paving company cautions homeowners that the scammers build trust and then escalate their demands for commitment or money. Remember, legitimate contractors typically provide free estimates only after being contacted by the homeowner and do not pressure immediate commitments.
Lastly, here’s a helpful tip from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) regarding payment for services.
Use safe payment methods.
Paying with a credit card provides peace of mind since the credit card company will help you if the company is fraudulent. If you use a check, write it to a company, not an individual. Paying cash or using an electronic wallet app is risky since there is no way to stop the payment or get some money back if anything goes wrong.”
Contact Maisano Bros. Inc. today for your free estimate
Being informed is your best defense against asphalt paving scams. Always do thorough research, seek multiple quotes, check references, and insist on detailed contracts. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Remember, quality work comes at a fair price and with professional conduct from the contractor.
Maisano Bros Paving hopes that by raising awareness of these common scams, this article will empower homeowners and other property managers to make informed decisions and protect their investments in their property improvement projects.
