Paving company scammers targeting property owners in central Alberta: RCMP

Cracked pavement is seen in this undated image. (Markus Spiske/Pexels)

Innisfail RCMP is warning central Alberta residents about companies operating asphalt-paving scams in the area.

Police said out-of-town companies have been offering services at inexpensive rates but asking for payment up front. Then, they either do a substandard job or ask property owners to pay more than the original quote.

“These companies, who will sometimes also offer roof sealing services, will then disappear from the area before people realize they have been scammed,” RCMP said in a Monday news release.

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The individuals operating the businesses usually provide few details about their identity and use nondescript vehicles. However, police noted some of the fraudulent companies do have logos to appear legitimate.

“The contractors claim to have leftover asphalt from previous jobs and promise to provide quality services. However, the product used is believed to be cold, recycled asphalt or a gravel and oil mixture with no lasting properties,” RCMP said.

The work often results in the asphalt falling apart once it is driven on.

RCMP is urging property owners to exercise caution when hiring services and be wary of contractors who:

• Come to your door offering a deal on leftover asphalt;
• Drive a vehicle without business names or logos;
• Pressure you into making a quick decision or refuse to take “no” for an answer;
• Ask for a down payment to buy materials; and
• Refuse to provide a written quote with a business name and physical address that outlines the services they will provide.

Residents can also take steps to avoid these scams, including researching the company, obtaining a written quote and getting quotes from other local businesses to compare.

RCMP is asking anyone who is approached by a paving company and feels it is suspicious or has fallen victim to this scam to call the Innisfail detachment at [phone] or call local police.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers.