Getting Acquainted With Asphalt Paving Scams: 5 Common Scam Types

Paving scams are unfortunately all too common across the United States. In fact, according to the Better Business Bureau, asphalt paving scams rank in the top five of the most common home improvement schemes. Even more troubling is that these scams often target seniors and other vulnerable populations.

So, suppose you’re considering having your driveway or parking lot paved. In that case, it’s important to be aware of the different types of paving scams to avoid becoming a victim.

This blog post, 309 Paving Services, will provide an overview of five of the most common asphalt paving scams in Pekin, IL in this blog post. Stay safe and informed!

1. Advance Payment Schemes:

Advance payments are one of the most common types of paving scams. In this scam, the asphalt contractor will request a large sum of money upfront for materials and labor costs. They may even promise a discount if you pay in cash.

Please don’t fall for it! Once they have your money, they will often disappear without doing any work or provide subpar work that doesn’t meet your expectations.

2. Low-Balling Schemes:

A low-balling scheme is another common type of paving scam. In this type of scam, the asphalt contractor will give you an estimate much lower than the actual project cost.

They often do this by using lower-quality materials or cutting corners on the work. As a result, you’ll pay more, in the long run, to fix the subpar work or replace the low-quality materials.

3. Bait and Switch Schemes:

A bait and switch scheme is another type of paving scam you should be aware of. In this type of scam, the asphalt contractor will give you an estimate for a low-cost job.

However, once they start the work, they will find “problems” with your existing pavement and try to up-sell you on a more expensive repair or replacement job.

4. Door-to-Door Contractor:

A door-to-door contractor is another type of asphalt paving scammer that you may come across. These individuals will go door to door in neighborhoods, offering their services at a discount.

They may even say that they have leftover materials from a previous job and offer to do the work for a fraction of the cost. The same hagglers will return once they start the work and discover “problems” with your pavement.

5. Fly-by-Night Contractor:

The fly-by-night contractor is a scammer who doesn’t have the proper credentials. They might be new in town or just visiting, so watch out for them!

You can usually spot these types of asphalt paving scams by looking for out-of-state license plates on their trucks. The greatest way to know if you’re dealing with a fly-by-night contractor is if they require payment in full upfront before any work starts.

A legitimate contractor will usually only require a down payment and the remainder of the payment upon completion of the job.

Bottom Line:

Asphalt paving scams come in all shapes and sizes, but the goal is always to take your money and run. By being aware of the five most common types of scams, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim.

If you’re looking for new asphalt paving company in Pekin, IL, check out 309 Paving Services. We want you to be certain in deciding who will do the job before starting. That’s why we offer free estimates and ensure they’re accurate every time so that no one has an unfair advantage over anyone else!

Check our service page online or contact us. We’ll be waiting for you!

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