Sheriff’s Office warns residents of asphalt paving scams
– The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about an increase in asphalt paving scams reported in the area.
Deputies responded to calls related to these scams in Huasna Township in January and again last week in Nipomo. The incidents involved individuals posing as contractors who approached homeowners and offered discounted driveway paving services. After completing the work, the individuals demanded significantly more money than what homeowners had verbally agreed to pay. In some cases, the price increased two, three, or up to ten times the original agreement, with the intent of pressuring homeowners to settle for a higher cost.
Authorities said asphalt paving scams often involve traveling sales crews who claim they have leftover materials from a nearby job and can complete work quickly at a reduced price. Officials reported that the materials are rarely left over and that the work is often substandard. Victims reported asphalt that was too thin, improperly installed, or of inferior quality, leading to driveways that cracked and deteriorated shortly after completion.
Investigators said suspects often go door to door, use high-pressure tactics to push homeowners into making immediate decisions, and request cash-only payments. In many cases, the individuals become difficult to locate after the work is completed or, at times, before the job is finished, leaving homeowners with repair costs and limited options for recourse.
Officials identified common tactics used in these scams. Suspects claim to have leftover asphalt from a nearby job and offer a discounted price. They travel from outside the area and leave before problems with the work become apparent. They demand cash-only payments to avoid detection and use high-pressure sales tactics to secure immediate agreements. They perform poor-quality work, such as applying a thin layer of asphalt or using improper materials, and increase the price significantly after the job has begun.
The Sheriff’s Office advised residents not to accept unsolicited, door-to-door offers for paving services. Officials recommended verifying a contractor’s license and insurance through the California Contractors State License Board or the Better Business Bureau. They also advised obtaining at least three written estimates from reputable local companies and requiring a written contract that includes the company’s name, address, phone number, license number, and a detailed scope of work. Authorities said residents should avoid paying in cash and instead use a check or credit card to maintain a record of the transaction.
