Too good to be true paving offers are out there

'Tis the season for this common scam

The Ontario Provincial Police is warning residents about a recent surge in paving scams. Homeowners are urged to be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.

There are several red flags to watch for when dealing with contractors. Unreasonably low prices might mean poor-quality materials or surprise costs later. Be cautious if a contractor asks for full payment before starting the work. Reliable contractors may request a deposit but never the full amount upfront.

Lack of references is another warning sign. Legitimate companies should provide references from previous clients. Be wary of door-to-door salespeople offering discounts for quick decisions. These tactics are often used by scammers.

Other red flags include contractors asking for cash-only payments, lacking a business address or website, or pressuring you to sign a contract quickly. Finally, a truck without company branding is a sign the business might not be legitimate.

If you have any information about these scams, please contact the OPP or Kingston Police.