Alberta mounties are warning of a new paving scam that is making its way through the province. Police say they’ve already received several calls about travelling companies offering paving services to senior citizens in rural communities.
The contractors usually 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. This results in the asphalt falling apart once it is driven on. By that time, these fraudsters are long gone, disappearing with their payment before the customer realizes they have been scammed.
Mounties say to be on the lookout for “contractors” who:
· Come to your door saying they are working in the area offering a deal for leftover asphalt
· Drive vehicles bearing no 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
· Refuse to give you a written quote with their business name, physical address and outlining the services they will provide prior to completing the work
The RCMP is currently investigating into the scam companies.