Leduc RCMP warns of paving and contractor scams

LEDUC -- Mounties in Leduc are warning of ongoing paving scams and fraudulent contractor services.

According to the Leduc RCMP, recent incidents have involved illegitimate, out-of-town companies offering discounted asphalt-paving services. Police say these incidents have been especially prominent in smaller towns and at rural properties across the region. Constable Lindsay McNab says the scammers have been known to offer to pave driveways at lower costs.

"Contractors claim to have leftover materials from previous jobs and offer to pave driveways and parking lots at reduced pricing," said Cst. McNab. "Companies may use business names that suggest they are affiliated with a government road maintenance department and typically provide false addresses or contact information."

Cst. McNab says that after contractors collect payment and disappear from the area, customers discover the materials used are of poor quality, and that the work is unprofessional. Victims are left unable to contact the scammers and are then faced with expensive asphalt repairs. She asks residents to exercise caution in order to avoid falling victim to the scams.

"Ask for names of previous customers and verify that they were satisfied with the work," said Cst. McNab. "Research the company through the Better Business Bureau in Alberta, the Consumer Investigations Unit, your local Rural Crime Watch, or on social media."

Other tips include obtaining a written quote that includes the full business name, address, phone number, GST number, as well as provincial and municipal license numbers, if applicable. Quotes should specify the quantity and quality of materials being offered. Residents are asked to always be skeptical if contractors decline to provide this information, and to always seek estimates from reputable companies to compare costs. Do not agree to a contract if you feel pressured, and always be leery of unsolicited offers.

If you, or anyone you know, suspect a paving-contractor scam, please contact your local RCMP detachment at 310-RCMP (7267) or make a report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by calling 1-888-495-8501.