DALEVILLE, Va. – If someone approaches you about having your driveway sealed or paved as highway work is going on nearby, consider it a red flag. That's according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.
Local paving companies say be careful of scams, which are especially common during the summer.
Charles Jennings, the vice president of CJ Asphalt Paving Inc., and his team are putting in long hours this summer completing several asphalt and paving jobs.
A recent one is a driveway project in the Ashley Plantation subdivision in Botetourt County.
"It was failing and has some issues. It wasn't done correctly originally. So what we did it was a total reconstruction," said Jennings.
The Virginia Department of Transportation said the summertime paving season brings opportunities for scammers. VDOT advises people to be cautious of people going door to door offering their services.
Jennings, who has more than 30 years of experience, said 80 percent of his work is by word-of-mouth or repeat customers.
"The main thing is: People check references. Investigate the company you guys hire. Take your time and make a wise decision. Don't jump on the first thing because better things come to those who wait," said Jennings.
If you think you're getting scammed, VDOT wants you to report the incident to police, with the person's name and license plate number, if possible. Also, never pay for services upfront.
"Once we've completed and they're 100 percent satisfied then we ask for payment," said Jennings.
Jennings' business is based in Franklin County, and he said he often gets requests from people who are scam victims to redo a previous job.
"We get a lots of phone calls during the year with people wanting us to come back (to fix a scammer's work)," said Jennings. "Of course, we don't have time to do that. We value our customers and try to do quality work for ourselves."
You can also check with the Better Business Bureau for help in finding a legitimate company for your paving services before your parking lot or driveway is left in shambles.
CJ Asphalt Paving Inc. did the asphalt and paving work at Ballast Point Brewery Company in Daleville.
VDOT offers the following tips to residents:
- Reputable companies typically do not sell door to door and rarely do paving companies have leftover material because they know with great accuracy how much material is needed.
- Always ask for a business card and take the time to make sure the company is legitimate with a good reputation.
- Never pay for services before they are completed.
- If someone tries to pressure you into a purchase, most likely they aren’t a legitimate business.
- If you think you are getting scammed, get a name, license plate number and phone number, if possible, to report the incident to a local law enforcement agency.