Protect Yourself from Asphalt Scams
Know the red flags before you sign any paving contract.
1. The Tonnage Trap
Dishonest contractors quote a price per ton, then deliver less asphalt than specified. Without knowing the correct tonnage for your project, you cannot verify what was actually laid.
A proper 2-inch driveway over 500 sqft uses approximately 25-35 tons. If your quote does not specify tonnage and thickness, ask or walk away.
Red Flags
- No thickness or depth specification in the quote
- Contractor refuses to put tonnage in writing
- Price is unusually low
- No material delivery tickets offered after the job
2. Door-to-Door Paving Scams
Fraudulent crews knock claiming leftover asphalt from a nearby job. The result is often thin, improperly prepared surface that fails within a year.
Red Flags
- Unsolicited door-to-door offer
- Pressure to decide immediately
- Cash-only payment required
- No business address or phone number
- Cannot show proof of insurance
- No written contract offered
3. How to Read a Paving Quote
A legitimate paving quote should be specific. Vague quotes with no specifications are a red flag.
What a Legitimate Quote Includes
- Specific depth of finished asphalt (e.g. 2 inches compacted)
- Base preparation details
- Total square footage
- Approximate tonnage to be delivered
- Payment schedule and terms
- Warranty on workmanship (at minimum 1 year)
- Contractor name, address, and license number
4. Checking Contractor Credentials
- Verify state contractor license via state licensing board
- Request Certificate of Insurance for general liability and workers comp
- Confirm they are bonded
- Check BBB rating and online reviews
- Ask for references from jobs in the last 12 months
- Verify physical business address
5. Getting Multiple Quotes
Always get at least three quotes. Compare specs, not just price.
Compare the Specs
Compare depth, base preparation, and tonnage across quotes. A lower price often means thinner asphalt or skipped prep.
Ask the Same Questions
Ask every contractor: What is the finished depth? What base work is included? What is your warranty? The answers reveal who knows what they are doing.
Use Our Calculator
Get a fair price benchmark before you call anyone. It gives you a reference point for every quote.
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