Hiring a pavement contractor is one of the most important decisions you will make as a business owner or property manager. A professional contractor not only installs pavement correctly but also saves you a considerable sum by helping you avoid frequent repairs and fixes.
An improper installation, on the other hand, leaves you frustrated. You’ll need additional maintenance and repair measures in no time, and before you know it, you’ll have a full-fledged problem on your hands. Circumventing or avoiding these problems may not be possible without addressing the root cause, which is the flawed pavement installation.
As a result, you are left with a damaged pavement and a never-ending pavement expenditure that slowly eats up your savings.
At Doctor Asphalt we are asphalt experts and we are committed to installing pavement professionally and correctly the first time. Unfortunately, we've had our fair share of jobs where we come in to make corrections after another paving contractor, and we know it's not something you want to deal with.
To help you make the right decision before signing a paving contract, we are sharing a few major red flags you must avoid. Drawing from our years of experience in the industry, we’ve noticed that customers complain the most about contractors who display the following characteristics.
3 Red Flags When Hiring a Pavement Contractor
Asking for Full Payment Up-Front
Some pavement contractors make mistakes that cost you significantly because of their lack of skills and experience. There are also untrustworthy individuals out there that pose as pavement contractors, looking for fraudulent ways to steal your hard-earned money.
Any pavement contractor asking for complete up-front payment are businesses that you need to stay away from at all costs. These contractors often appear out of nowhere and make an offer that is usually too good to be true. All too often, we've heard stories of shady companies tricking customers by posing as legitimate pavement contractors.
Bad Reviews
When evaluating a contractor, it's essential to consider their reputation, especially if they've received bad reviews. Any mention of project delays, poor communication, or shoddy workmanship are a strong indication you might face similar problems. Negative word of mouth and poor prior experiences serve as clear warnings to stay away from contractors with a troubled track record.
Negative word of mouth and poor prior experiences are pretty good reasons to stay away from a contractor. Other customers’ bad experiences with a contractor are an indication of what’s in store for you if you hire that contractor. Even if it saves money upfront, hiring a contractor with bad reviews usually isn’t worth the risk.
See what customers say about their experience with Doctor Asphalt.
Not Licensed
Unlicensed contractors are a big No! No! and you should avoid them at all cost. A license by the state regulatory body is a certificate of trust associated with a business. Pavement contractors who know their trade and go through the intense rigor of getting a license realize the value of good workmanship. Hiring an unlicensed contractor comes with its disadvantages; lack of accountability and traceability is one of them.
These three red flags are just the tip of the iceberg, some other warning signs include contractors without insurance or those who don’t offer a guarantee on their work. Taking the time to research and meet with potential contractors will help you find a reliable pavement professional you can trust.
Finding a Professional Pavement Contractor
After looking at three big red flags to watch for, the next question is: what should you look for in a pavement partner you can rely on?
A local paving contractor who prioritizes good communication and answering all of your questions before a contract is even signed or work begins. You should look online for positive reviews and even ask for references. Of course, make sure the pavement contractor has a valid, current license, and your project and payment schedule are clearly documented.
Doctor Asphalt: A Paving Partner You Can Count On
At Doctor Asphalt we are committed to excellence and customer satisfaction. We ensure that each project is executed with precision and care, utilizing the latest techniques and materials to enhance the durability and appearance of your asphalt surfaces.
We offer full-service asphalt paving & maintenance services, including paving, commercial sealcoating, crack filling, line striping, and more. When you work with us you can rest assured that your business and pavement are in the best hands.
Doctor Asphalt delivers high-quality asphalt paving and maintenance solutions designed for the unique demands of the local climate. With a strong reputation for reliability and expertise, we provide premium services that enhance the safety and longevity of commercial and residential properties. Serving Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Texas, with nationwide capabilities for multi-property clients, we ensure durable, professional results that keep your pavement in top condition.