Financial Education Resources

Asphalt paving scams are on the rise in Tennessee. As a community bank, we strive to protect our customers and the communities we serve by raising awareness and providing tips to help prevent becoming a victim. 

Paving your driveway or resurfacing a parking lot can be a smart investment in your property’s value and appearance. Unfortunately, it can also attract dishonest contractors looking to make a quick buck through paving scams. These scams can leave you with poor-quality work, unexpected bills, and a lot of frustration.

In this post, we’ll break down how paving scams work, what warning signs to watch for, and how to protect yourself and your wallet.

What is a Paving Scam?

A paving scam typically involves a person or group posing as legitimate contractors offering asphalt or paving services, often at a suspiciously low price. These scammers usually:

• Show up uninvited, offering to do work with “leftover materials” from a nearby job.
• Pressure you into a quick decision, claiming the deal is only good today.
• Use cheap or incorrect materials, leading to rapid deterioration.
• Disappear after payment, sometimes even before the job is finished.

In the end, victims are left with a driveway that cracks, crumbles, or washes away within weeks—or they may have paid upfront and received no service at all.

Common Red Flags of a Paving Scam

Be cautious if you encounter any of the following:

1. Door-to-Door Offers: Reputable contractors rarely solicit work this way.
2. “Leftover Asphalt” Pitches: Professional paving requires planning; excess material isn’t typically reused.
3. No Written Contract: If there’s no clear agreement, there’s no accountability.
4. Cash-Only Payment Demands: Scammers prefer untraceable payments.
5. No Business Address or Online Presence: Always verify credentials.
6. Unmarked Vehicles and No Uniforms: Legitimate companies typically have branded trucks and professional appearances.

Real-Life Stories

• In multiple states across the U.S., homeowners have reported being scammed by groups claiming to be contractors offering steep discounts for paving. Victims were left with uneven, cracking driveways and no way to get in touch with the workers afterward.
• One elderly couple was charged $7,000 for a job that a local professional later said was worth less than $1,500—and would need to be completely redone.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t take the first offer you receive—compare prices and services.
2. Verify the Contractor: Check licenses, insurance, and reviews from credible sources like the Better Business Bureau.
3. Get Everything in Writing: Make sure the scope, timeline, and cost are clearly documented.
4. Never Pay in Full Upfront: A small deposit may be reasonable, but final payment should wait until the job is complete and satisfactory.
5. Ask for References: A reputable contractor should be able to provide examples of past work.
6. Be Skeptical of “Today Only” Deals: High-pressure tactics are a classic sign of a scam.

What to Do if You Suspect a Scam

If you think you’ve encountered a paving scam:

• Refuse the service and don’t sign anything.
• Take note of any vehicle license plates, names, or phone numbers.
• Report the incident to your local consumer protection agency or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Conclusion

When it comes to paving your property, if an offer seems too good to be true—it probably is. Take the time to research and choose a qualified, reputable contractor. The extra effort up front can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of headaches down the road.

Stay informed, stay alert, and protect your pavement—and your pocketbook—from scams.