PORT ANGELES — The Clallam County Sheriff’s Office is warning county resident to beware of asphalt paving scams.
During this time of year, out-of-county paving outfits often approach a homeowner or business and offer to repave a driveway or parking lot for a “great low price.”
They will often target senior citizens, telling them they have just finished with a nearby paving project and have some material left over.
They will usually insist on cash at the time of the work.
In many cases, however, the asphalt starts to deteriorate shortly after the business completes the job and leaves the area.
Citizens are advised to never be pressured into making quick decisions, especially if the price appears to be too good to be true.
It is usually safer to deal with a business that has been in the community for a number of years, the Sheriff’s Office said.
Always ask for references and identification.
Customers also should be wary of great bargains, lifetime guarantees and other high-pressure sales tactics.
It’s wise to ask for written bids from several contractors and evaluate all aspects of their bids.
Consumers also can check with the state Department of Labor & Industries to see if the contractor is registered, licensed, bonded and insured to work in the state.
The department’s website is www.lni.wa.gov, and tells how long a business has been registered, if it has lawsuits against it, if is bonded and if it has been cited for any violations.
It pays to do your homework to protect yourself against fraud, the Sheriff’s Office said.
For more information, visit http://tinyurl.com/2bbnej6.
