Viking RCMP is warning residents about companies operating asphalt paving scams in the area.
These companies typically approach homeowners through door-to-door contact, offering paving services at what appear to be low or discounted rates. In many cases, they request payment upfront. After work begins, or sometimes before it is completed, property owners may be asked to pay more than the original quoted price.
Individuals involved in these scams often provide little verifiable information about their identity and may operate unmarked or nondescript vehicles. In some instances, the companies may appear legitimate, using professional-looking logos or branding.
A common tactic involves contractors claiming they have leftover asphalt from previous jobs and offering a reduced price to use the excess material. However, the product used is often substandard, believed to be recycled asphalt or a gravel-oil mixture that lacks durability. As a result, the work may deteriorate quickly once driven on or remain incomplete if additional payment demands are not met.
The Viking RCMP recommends exercising caution when retaining contractor services. Keep the following tips in mind to avoid falling victim to a scam:
Ask for names of previous customers and verify that they were satisfied with the work.Research the company through the Better Business Bureau in Alberta, the Consumer Investigations Unit, your local Rural Crime Watch, or on social media.Obtain a written quote that includes the full business name, address, phone number, GST number, as well as provincial and municipal license numbers, if applicable.Quotes should specify the quantity and quality of materials being offered. Be skeptical if contractors decline to provide this information.Seek estimates from reputable companies to compare costs.Do not agree to a contract if you feel pressured or if the contractor refuses to take “no” for an answer.Be leery of unsolicited offers. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!Do not pay for services upfront, before the work is done.If you, or anyone you know, suspect a paving-contractor scam, please contact the Viking RCMP detachment at 336-3441 or make a report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by calling 1-888-495-8501.
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Beaver County
