Are you looking for an asphalt paving contractor you can trust? When it comes to residential or commercial paving repair, you need a dependable contractor. When dealing with an asphalt construction company, proceed with some skepticism. Not all companies are the same, and researching paving companies before hiring can keep you from falling into a whirlwind of untimely repairs. Here are some of the red flags you need to be aware of before making the hiring decision.
Red Flags in a Paving Contractor
Non-Existent References
It is a good idea to ask a potential paving contractor for references. Doing this helps you determine if the contractor is reliable, what types of work they specialize in, and how well they treat their customers. Contractors should be forthcoming and willing to give you references when you ask for them. After all, it is your responsibility to check a contractor’s job history. If you cannot obtain complete references from the asphalt installer directly, try online reviews. Online reviews can provide insight into the qualifications of paving contractors and help you choose the best one. However, if a company fails to provide references upon request and you are left to find them independently, that can be a terrible sign of the company’s quality.
Unresponsive Customer Service
Communication is crucial in any relationship, and business relationships are no different. You need a contractor that responds to your questions clearly and promptly. You want to hire a contractor that will respond within 24 hours, whether by email, phone call, or text. If a potential contractor is slow to respond or leaves your calls unanswered, this is a prime indicator of what will come once you sign a contract. Avoid companies that don’t take customer service seriously.
No License or Insurance
You should also make sure that the contractor you choose is licensed and insured. Licensing is the only way to know whether or not a contractor is qualified to do the job. Asphalt and paving professionals are human, and accidents can happen, but the appropriate liability insurance helps protect both you and the asphalt installers. Once you have their details, you can always ask the insurance company for documents as proof that the contractor’s business is insured. If you find that the company you’re researching doesn’t have insurance or a license, you should not do business with them. The lack of licensing and insurance indicates a serious problem, and you should stay away.
Vague Contract Details
Be wary of any paving contract that isn’t comprehensive. For example, some items that need to be included in the contract should be the equipment and materials to be used, the scope of work, the projected timeline and budget, as well as a payment schedule. Both parties must sign this contract before beginning a job. If a contractor is elusive about their contract, offers to work without one, or seems confused about contract details, it can signify deep-rooted issues. A careful review of a contract is necessary to ensure that everyone is on the same page about what needs to be done. Also, don’t let any contractor pressure you into signing anything that you are not ready to sign or don’t understand. Doing so is a warning sign you should avoid.
Asphalt Paving You Can Count On
When choosing a paving contractor, check for red flags and be proactive. You deserve quality pavement repair from a company you can trust. Call the Cassidy Paving experts today at 866-978-9788 for the best asphalt services in New England. We also offer free estimates to clients throughout Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire for all-size asphalt paving projects.