Lethbridge police inform public about paving scams

Lethbridge Police Headquarters is shown in Lethbridge, Alta., on Wednesday, March 10, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Rossiter

Lethbridge police are advising the public to be aware of paving scams involving illegitimate contractors approaching homes and businesses.

While no reported incidents have taken place in the southern Alberta city, authorities say there have been reports from other communities.

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“Paving scams typically involve illegitimate, transient contractors who approach homeowners or businesses with unsolicited offers for discounted asphalt repairs,” police said in a news release.

“They often claim to have leftover materials from a larger project and offer a reduced price for immediate work.”

After the work is done and payment is exchanged, the contractor informs the victim to stay off the surface for days or weeks so it can “set.”

Police say that when the driveway or parking lot is used, the surface cracks and crumbles because it does not meet the minimum industry standards.

By that time, officials say the fake contractor is long gone and does not respond to communication.

Lethbridge police offer the following tips for home and business owners:

• be cautious of any unsolicited offer of work;
• scammers often use high-pressure tactics, such as immediate decisions or up-front payment; and
• keep an eye out for unmarked vehicles, no written contract or any other lack of verifiable business information.

Authorities say anyone engaging with any company like this should check the company through the Better Business Bureau or the provincial government’s business enforcement search and obtain a written contract before any work commences.