Paving scam surfaces in North Vancouver, prompting warning from BBB

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuinga warning to homeowners about scam artists offering a cheap, quick fix for driveways after aNorth Vancouver, B.C., residentlost thousands of dollars toa supposed contractor.

The resident reported paying $4,500 for a job thatbegan cracking just days after it was completed, according to a BBB statement on Monday.

When the resident complained, thebusiness promised to return to fix the driveway but never turned up. Calls to thebusiness have since gone unanswered.

The BBB said thevictim even visited the address on Venables Street in Vancouverthat was listed on the company's website, only to find another, unrelated business there.

"If you are considering havingsome paving work done, it is crucial to research trustworthy paving contractors [...] before handing over money," BBB public relations manager Karla Laird said.

Never pay cash up front: BBB

The bureau warns these types of scams typically increase during the spring and summer when owners startthinking about making home improvements.

In many cases, contractors claimtohave leftover materials they can use to fix driveways in obvious need of repair.

The contractors start the job but end up leaving itunfinished or use inappropriate or substandard materials.

The BBB says consumers should alwayscheck the person offering a service is part of a local company with an actual address, and ask to get an agreement in writing on the scope of the work to be done.

"Do not be pressured into accepting a job before seeking multiple quotations, or worse, paying large amounts upfront, especially in cash," saidLaird.

For more information, or if you have been victimized by ascam, go to BBB.org/ScamTracker.

The BBB is a non-profit organization dedicated to "advancing marketplace trust".