Now that it’s summertime, more and more asphalt contractors will be knocking on doors looking for work. However, it’s important you know how to separate legitimate paving companies from the scammers. Scammers are more likely to target your home if the driveway is filled with cracks and potholes.
If your driveway is starting to show its age, continue reading to learn the red flags of an asphalt paving scam.
If you suspect you’re dealing with a scammer, file a report with your local police department and the Better Business Bureau.
Deep Discounts
Scammers earn most of their business by offering deep discounts, only to leave before the job is finished. Scammers often pose as legitimate paving contractors who have leftover materials from other jobs. While they do pave part of your driveway, they’ll also conveniently run out of materials and promise to return the next day. They never do.
In terms of asphalt paving, you get what you pay for. For this reason, you’ll want to avoid contractorswho undercut the competition. You want a driveway contractor who will use quality materials to get the job done right. Otherwise, you’ll end up spending money to repair damage caused by the first contractor.
Paying Cash Upfront
We’ll never pressure you to pay cash up-front. Legitimate accept cash, credit cards, and checks. It’s always a red flag when a door-to-door salesperson pressures you to pay cash up-front. A scammer doesn’t want to accept your check because they know you’ll try to cancel it once you realize their game.
Out-of-State License Plates
A reputable asphalt contractor will have spent years building trust and a loyal customer base. For example, B&E Coating Services has been around since the late 90s. Scammers move from town to town to avoid getting caught. It’s a red flag if your door-to-door salesperson or asphalt contractor has out-of-state plates. This means that they don’t plan on staying in town long after taking your money.
Even if a company representative gives you a local phone number, this is no guarantee that they’re actually from your area. It’s not uncommon for scammers to give you a local phone number to a disposable phone. For this reason, always check out the license plates for your salesperson or asphalt contractor.
No Contact Information
It’s a red flag when a company representative won’t provide contact information. Since a salesperson works on commission, one of the first things they’ll do is hand you their card. Our asphalt contractors also want to make sure you know who to call to schedule your quote or ask further questions.
If a company representative doesn’t want to give you their card, it’s because they don’t want you to call them when they skip town with your money. Our always make sure to give you their contact information so you can ask questions or request your quote for asphalt repair.
If your driveway needs to be repaired or replaced, research your local asphalt companies before agreeing to anything. Our Michigan driveway pavers are more than happy to answer any questions you might have so you can be sure you’re making the right decision. To schedule your quote for driveway paving, call B&E Coating Services at 1-800-SEAL-817.
