North Dakota Attorney General warns homeowners about asphalt paving scams targeting residents across the state
Bismarck, North Dakota – North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley is warning residents to remain cautious as reports of asphalt-paving scams continue to target homeowners across the state.
According to state officials, the scams often begin with an unexpected visit from individuals posing as paving contractors. These people typically arrive without an appointment and claim they are already working nearby. They then tell homeowners they have leftover asphalt or other paving materials that can be used at a discounted price.
Authorities say the goal is to pressure consumers into making quick decisions before they have time to research the company or review the offer carefully.
Scammers Use Pressure And False Promises
The fraudulent contractors frequently claim the special offer is only available that day because of excess material from another project. They often push homeowners to agree immediately and may start work before a formal contract is signed.
Once a price has been discussed, scammers may request a large payment upfront or demand immediate payment as soon as the work appears finished.
In some situations, officials say consumers have reported being pressured, intimidated, or threatened into paying before they have had a chance to inspect the quality of the completed work.
If the contractor receives money in advance, there is a risk they may disappear without completing the project. Even when work is performed, it is often poorly done.
State officials warn that scam operators commonly cut corners by skipping necessary preparation work, using inadequate amounts of material, choosing lower-quality products, or relying on untrained labor and substandard equipment.
After receiving payment, many of these contractors become difficult to contact. Homeowners may encounter unanswered phone calls, repeated excuses, delays, or complete silence when attempting to address concerns.
Attorney General Urges Residents To Verify Contractors
Wrigley emphasized that consumers should be especially wary of unsolicited offers involving paving projects.
“Scammers show up uninvited and try to rush consumers into quick decisions” Wrigley stated and adds that “reputable contractors don’t operate that way.”
He encouraged residents to take their time and carefully verify any company before agreeing to work.
Officials recommend asking where the business is located, requesting references from local customers, and determining whether the company is properly registered or licensed through the North Dakota Secretary of State’s office.
Consumers are also urged to search online for reviews, complaints, and other information that may reveal a contractor’s history.
Another important safeguard is obtaining everything in writing before work begins. Authorities recommend requiring a written contract that clearly outlines project details, materials to be used, payment schedules, warranty information, and expected start and completion dates.
Protecting Your Money
The Attorney General’s Office also advises homeowners not to pay the full amount before work is completed.
Instead, payments should be staggered throughout the project so that each phase can be inspected before additional money is released.
Whenever possible, consumers should use a credit card because credit card companies may provide options for disputing fraudulent transactions. If paying by check, officials recommend making it payable to a business rather than an individual.
Residents are also encouraged to avoid cash payments and mobile payment applications, which can be difficult or impossible to recover if fraud occurs.
Wrigley offered one final piece of advice for consumers evaluating unexpected offers.
“Pay attention if your intuition tells you that an offer appears too good to be true, because it likely is,” Wrigley said.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by an asphalt-paving scam or who has questions about a contractor can contact the North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 701-328-3404 for assistance and guidance.
