Asphalt Paving Scams Rear Their Ugly Heads In The Area

Northwest Iowa — Asphalt paving scams have returned for the season in at least one KIWA listening area county.

The Sioux County Sheriff’s Office is warning that these scams are once again being perpetrated this summer. Authorities urge you to avoid becoming a victim, and make sure you are getting professional and quality services. Sioux County officials have some suggestions to help you.

First, the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office urges you to do your research. They say if you really want to have asphalt or any paving services done, do it on your own terms. Anyone who approaches you to quickly do the repair work raises suspicions. If someone knocks on your door and says, “We have leftover asphalt from another job and we can pave your property at a discounted rate if you pay with cash,” is almost always indicative of this scam; don’t ever take them up on it until you’ve done your research.

The Sheriff’s Office reminds you that legitimate businesses readily display their credibility. Most paving companies are proud of their work and display company logos on their trucks and equipment. You should be suspicious of groups that don’t do this. Many scam crews don’t prominently display any business names, logos or contact information. If in doubt, contact the Better Business Bureau and request a record of complaints filed against the company. Ask the contractor to show you a current insurance certificate for their company. Any reputable business should be happy to accommodate your request; anything else is a red flag for trouble.

Be sure to get everything IN WRITING before any work starts. If you do hire a company to do paving work, get a written contract that explains the responsibilities of both you and the contractor performing the work. Ask the contractor for printed information on the types of professional-grade sealer that they will use on your job.

If you are well educated, you’ll be better prepared to make good decisions before these type of companies knock on your door. Remember the rule that if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

If you receive a visit from someone you believe is trying to scam you, the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office urges you to tell them, “no,” close the door right away and contact the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office, or your local police department right away.

KIWA File Photo

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