Asphalt Scam in our area

A new scam is being reported in the lakes area.

According to the Better Business Bureau we have a had an increase in shady asphalt companies. These scams tend to pop up in the summer and they are usually done by someone going door to door or advertised with signs in the community. These asphalt companies claim to have extra materials from a recent job and they can handle your asphalt needs with the leftover materials. The scammers will look and sound legitimate, but are not.

Odds are they will make a very low, and affordable quote but it will be a very sub par job. Remember if the price seems to good to be true it probably is. To see what security UCB offers you when shopping with your debit card visit here.

To avoid an unethical asphalt company, make sure to follow a couple rules:

• Be wary of paving companies stating they are “in the neighborhood” and have extra asphalt at the ready to repair your driveway for a minimal cost. Professional asphalt contractors know, with great accuracy, how much paving material is needed to complete a project. They will rarely have leftover materials.

• Never hire someone on the spot. Trustworthy contractors provide a written estimate that will be valid for many days. If you feel that you are being subjected to high-pressure sales tactics, BBB advises you to end the conversation and tell the company you’re not interested.

• If the quoted price seems very low, chances are the quality of work will be quite low.

• Get at least two estimates before hiring anyone.

• Don’t pay with cash or write a check to an individual for the job. Credit cards are always best as there are options for recovering your lost funds.

Consumers are often safer dealing with a local contractor.

Contact the BBB for free Business Profiles on any company you are considering doing business with by visiting bbb.org, or by calling toll-free in Minnesota and North Dakota at 1-800-646-6222.