Distraught consumers say they are being cheated out of money by a common warm weather scam: door-to-door driveway paving.
In a typical case, several trucks with out-of-state license plates will show up on a street. The contractors are often not licensed to do business in Connecticut, will knock on the door, claim to have recently paved a neighbor’s driveway “down the road” and offer to use leftover paving material for a cut-rate driveway paving.
The workmanship is often poor, the asphalt breaks up or grass will start growing through the new pavement and consumers’ attempts to reach the contractors to repair the work or obtain a refund are fruitless.
Connecticut Better Business Bureau President, Paulette Scarpetti, urges consumers not to give-in to high pressure sales tactics.
“Time-limited offer sales pitches are a clear warning for consumers to take a step back and think carefully about what they are being offered. In the end, the would-be savings disappear if the job has to be re-done, and the entire project costs more than the consumer bargained for.”
Other unlicensed contractors also leave behind a highway of unhappy customers. Complaints include shoddy workmanship, late or unfinished projects, or not performing any work after a deposit is paid.
Better Business Bureau serving Connecticut says there are ways of avoiding these common spring and summertime scams:
Select a contractor yourself:
Though there are reputable contractors from out-of-state, BBB advises steering clear of those who show up at your door with time-sensitive deals, or offer a discount to make use of materials left over from other projects.
Ask to see a license and proof of insurance:
Trustworthy contractors would be pleased to offer proof of insurance and a business license. If a contractor balks at the request, it is best to select someone else to do the work.
Ensure it is all in writing:
A well-written contract should contain a start and finish date, details about the kind of materials to be used and a commitment that the contractor will obtain a building permit when required by a town or municipality. Contracts also should include specifics about the deposit and payment schedule and any restrictions, costs and requirements if the consumer wants to cancel a project before work begins.
Avoid paying a large deposit:
Negotiate with the contractor to pay the smallest deposit possible. Make out the check to a company rather than an individual and never pay with cash or a money order.
Obtain references:
Consumers should ask for references and if it is a costly project contact a satisfied client and examine the workmanship if possible.
Compare estimates:
Always seek at least two bids. If one of the estimates is significantly lower, ask why. A contractor may indeed be less expensive than the competition, however it is important to compare the quality of materials and other details.
Consumers may check out the reputation of contractors or find a Better Business Bureau accredited contractor at www.bbb.org.
