How to Avoid Asphalt and Driveway Scams in Florida

Florida homeowners, especially seniors, are frequent targets for paving and home improvement scams.

Scammers know many residents are retired, may not be familiar with construction pricing, and often want quick fixes to driveways or private roads. After storms and hurricane season, the problem gets even worse as unlicensed contractors flood neighborhoods offering "repairs" on the spot.

⚠️ In many of these cases, the scammer:

• Shows up unannounced
• Claims to be "working in the area" with leftover asphalt
• Uses or impersonates the name of a real company
• Pushes for cash or a large deposit
• Does poor quality work, or never comes back to finish the job

This guide explains the most common scams, red flags to watch for, and the steps to choose a reputable paving contractor in Florida.

Common Scams to Watch For

1. The "Leftover Asphalt" Scam

One of the most common scams starts with a knock at the door. The person says they have "leftover asphalt from another job" and can give you a one-time, half-price deal if you agree right now.

⚠️ Why this is a scam:

✗ Professional contractors calculate materials closely. Having enough "leftover" for a whole driveway is extremely unlikely.
✗ The material is often low quality and the work is rushed. The surface may crumble quickly.
✗ You're pressured to decide immediately with no time to check the company.

2. "Travelers" and Out-of-State Crews

Florida is targeted by groups that move through the state offering cheap driveway paving and repairs.

⚠️ Warning signs:

✗ Trucks with out-of-state plates, unmarked or with temporary magnetic signs
✗ No local office—just a motel, campground, or P.O. box
✗ They leave town quickly so you have no recourse if something goes wrong

3. Impersonating Licensed Companies

Some scammers steal the name of a real, licensed contractor to appear legitimate.

They may:

• Put a real company's name on flyers or ads
• Use a fake website or similar-sounding name
• Refuse to show photo ID that matches their paperwork

4. Fake "Senior Discounts"

Scammers often target seniors with:

• "Special senior pricing" that's only good "today only"
• Demands for large deposits or cash payments up front
• Changing the price after starting work

⚠️ Any contractor who targets your age or creates urgency instead of focusing on the work details is showing a major red flag.

How Legitimate Companies Actually Work

Knowing what's normal makes spotting a scam much easier.

✅ A reputable contractor will:

✓ NOT show up unannounced demanding an immediate decision

✓ Provide a written estimate that's valid for days or weeks, not minutes

✓ Clearly describe the work, materials, timeline, and payment schedule

✓ Accept checks, cards, or electronic payment—not just cash

✓ Show you a real local address, insurance proof, and required licenses

✓ Offer local references and photos of recent work

Important: Many Florida counties require contractors to hold a local license. A serious contractor will know what's required in your area and can prove it.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Download Checklist

Use this checklist with ANY contractor

1. "What is your exact business name and local address?"

Look it up on Google Maps. Be cautious if it's a motel, mailbox store, or P.O. box.

2. "Are you licensed in my county or city?"

Ask to see their license, then verify it with your local licensing department.

3. "Can I see your driver's license and contractor license?"

The names should match on the ID, license, truck, and paperwork.

4. "Do you have liability insurance and workers' comp?"

Ask for proof and call the insurance carrier to verify it's active.

5. "Can you provide a detailed written estimate?"

It should include square footage, materials, work type, timeline, and total cost.

6. "What's your payment schedule?"

Be wary of demands for all cash up front. Reasonable deposits are normal.

7. "How long have you been working locally?"

Ask for recent local references you can call.

8. "Who will do the work?"

A real company is transparent about their crew and equipment.

9. "What warranty do you provide?"

Get the warranty in writing.

10. "Will you pull required permits?"

The contractor should know what permits apply in your area.

How to Check a Contractor

Look Them Up Online

• Search the company name with "reviews" and your city name
• Check for a real website and photos of their work
• Be cautious of brand new listings with only positive reviews

Check Their Address

Use Google Maps to verify their business address. Be cautious if it's a motel, campground, or mailbox store.

Verify Their License

Call your county or city licensing department to confirm the contractor is properly licensed to work in your area.

Confirm Insurance

Ask for a certificate of insurance and call the insurance company to verify it's current and active.

Match All Names

The name on the truck, contract, license, and insurance should all match. If they don't, walk away.

🚩

RED FLAGS: Walk Away If You See These

Say "No, thank you" and close the door if:

✗

They show up unannounced at your door

✗

They claim to have "leftover materials" or a deal "only good today"

✗

They have out-of-state plates or unmarked trucks

✗

They won't provide a written estimate

✗

They demand cash only or a large payment up front

✗

They won't show ID, license, or insurance proof

✗

They pressure you by saying "all your neighbors are doing it"

✗

They get aggressive when you ask questions or want to think it over

⚠️ Trust Your Instincts. If Something Feels Wrong, It Probably Is.

Protect Yourself and Your Neighbors

👤 For Yourself

✓ Never decide on the spot. Take time to compare estimates.
✓ Never hand over cash at the door.
✓ If you feel pressured, end the conversation.

👥 For Neighbors

✓ Watch out for elderly neighbors.
✓ Check in if you see unknown crews going door to door.
✓ Contact family members if you're concerned.

📞 Report Suspicious Activity

• Local law enforcement or sheriff's office
• County licensing board or community development
• Florida Dept. of Business & Professional Regulation

⚠️ Already Been Scammed?

1. Save all paperwork, receipts, and photos
2. Take photos or video of the work done
3. Contact your bank or card company immediately
4. File reports with law enforcement and licensing offices

How Florida Asphalt Solutions Helps

When you hire a reputable local company, you eliminate most scam risks.

Here's How We're Different:

✓

No Door-to-Door Sales

Estimates are scheduled, never forced on your doorstep.

✓

Clear Written Proposals

Every job has a detailed scope, materials list, timeline, and price before we start.

✓

Properly Licensed & Insured

We maintain proper local licensing and current insurance. We'll show you the documents.

✓

Local References Available

See real work in your community and talk to past customers.

✓

Professional Crews & Equipment

Trained team members using proper paving equipment—not a pickup truck with "leftover" material.

Thinking About Repaving?

Before you say yes to anyone at your door, check their name, license, and references. For a no-pressure, written estimate from a properly licensed Florida contractor, contact us today.

Important Disclaimer

Florida Asphalt Solutions is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. The information provided on this page is for educational and awareness purposes only. We are a local paving contractor committed to protecting homeowners in our communities by sharing knowledge about common scams and best practices.

This guide is based on our experience in the industry and common patterns we've observed. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Laws and regulations vary by location, and individual circumstances may differ.

If you have been a victim of a scam or need legal assistance, please consult with a qualified attorney, contact your local law enforcement, or reach out to your state's consumer protection agency. For specific legal questions, always seek advice from a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

Don't Get Paved Over by Scammers Protect Yourself & Your Neighbors