Calgary Police Service warns residents about paving scam in Calgary

Calgary Police Service is warning residents and business owners in Calgary and nearby communities about an ongoing paving scam involving contractors who approach customers directly and offer quick asphalt work under misleading conditions.

Police say the contractors often claim they have just completed another paving project nearby and have leftover material available at no cost.

They typically tell property owners that only labour charges will apply, presenting the offer as a limited opportunity.

According to investigators, customers are then asked to sign contracts that contain blank spaces where important details such as cost per square foot and total project area should normally appear.

After obtaining the signature, the contractors reportedly pave a larger than expected area using a thin layer of low quality asphalt and later fill in the missing contract details with inflated charges.

In several reported cases, customers were pressured to make immediate payment once the work was finished.

Police say some contractors also used false addresses and inaccurate contact details, making it difficult for victims to trace the business afterward.

Authorities warn that intimidation has also been reported when customers question the price or quality of the work.

Residents are being advised to carefully verify any paving company before agreeing to services.

Police recommend checking business records through the Better Business Bureau, reviewing customer feedback, and confirming contractor identification before signing any agreement.

Consumers are also advised never to sign incomplete contracts and to insist that all pricing, measurements, and materials are clearly written before any work begins.

Police say anyone who feels threatened during such encounters should immediately contact authorities.

The warning comes as similar contractor scams often increase during warmer months when paving and outdoor repair offers become more common.

Officials stress that legitimate contractors normally provide full written estimates, clear business identification, and sufficient time for customers to review terms before work begins.

Courtesy: The City of Calgary Newsroom