06/11/2026
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The Hernando County Sheriffβs Office has once again received complaints regarding asphalt paving scams. Asphalt paving contractors are going door-to-door offering driveway or parking pad paving at very low prices. They often claim to have leftover asphalt from a nearby job and can offer a βgreat deal.β
These individuals typically do not provide a written quote in advance. Instead, they quote a low price verbally, complete the work, and then demand a significantly higher payment than originally discussed. Payment is often expected immediately upon completion.
While the initial price may seem appealing, beware of these red flags:
β’ Unsolicited offers to perform work
β’ Claims of leftover materials at a discounted price
β’ No written estimate or contract
β’ Refusal to provide a firm price before starting work
β’ Pressure to agree to same-day service
In many cases, the final invoice is thousands of dollars higher than the original quoted amount. After completing the work, these individuals may become aggressive, pressure you for payment, or even threaten legal action.
Past investigations have found that some of these companies operate from outside the state of Florida. They often avoid giving clear answers about pricing and delay providing a final cost until the job is finished. These pavers may not require an upfront deposit, however legitimate contractors commonly require a percentage down and provide a written agreement before beginning work.
Reputable contractors rarely solicit work door-to-door. If you are considering hiring a contractor to complete work at your home or business:
β’ Research local, reputable companies
β’ Obtain multiple written estimates
β’ Request references from previous customers
β’ Avoid paying in cash when possible
Payment methods such as check, credit card, or digital payment platforms (Cash App, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, etc.) create a record of the transaction for your protection.
If you suspect a contractor may be involved in a scam, report it to the Hernando County Sheriffβs Office. Warn your neighborsβespecially elderly residents, who are often targeted.
Before hiring any contractor, conduct thorough research. Check for complaints through the Better Business Bureau (BBB.org), read online reviews, and contact the Hernando County Building Department to verify licensing and credentials.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Hernando County Sheriffβs Office at 352-754-6830.
