Information and Alerts

Alert

On July 25th, 2019, BBB Serving the Atlantic Provinces initiated an investigation into Elite Paving and Masonry, based on reports and inquiries from consumers.

BBB has received complaints against this business which have gone unanswered.

Letters sent to the business requesting information on the business structure have also gone unanswered.

The problems outlined in the complaints are similar - the work was of very poor quality and when asked to honour the warranty and make repairs, the company failed to respond.

In addition, consumers received what they understood to be estimates, only to have the business inform them that they had signed a contract.

BBB recommends that consumers conduct careful and thorough research when considering hiring a paving company.

BBB strongly urges consumers to:
Check on the Better Business website when researching companies.
Obtain multiple quotes and let each contractor know that you are doing so.
Evaluate the quotes based on the initial meeting with the contractor, the professionalism of the quote, the price, and the estimated timeline of the job. Is the asphalt type and quality indicated? Do they mention a minimum thickness? Is there a noticeable discrepancy in the dollar amount? (If one is much lower than the others, ask yourself if it is too good to be true.) 
Ask for references and follow up on them.
Avoid making a cash payment.

If a down payment is requested, negotiate with the contractor as to the percentage of the down payment relative to the over-all quote. Contractors may legitimately request a down payment as a sign of good faith from the consumer, to reserve the date and book workers and equipment, and to acquire materials. 

Be sure to have a detailed written contract that specifies: 
               (a)Total cost of the job including applicable taxes
               (b) Term of payment, including refunds should the job be cancelled                   
               (c) Details of the project such as asphalt thickness, specs and area            
               (d) Warranty coverage
               (e) Terms and conditions 

8. Carefully inspect the finished work before paying the balance owing. If the project does not fully comply with the contract, make your concerns known to the contractor and insist that the work be completed as per the details in the contract.

Disreputable contractors:
·often use inferior or recycled asphalt; 
less material (compacted asphalt should be at least 2 inches thick);
suggest unnecessary work; 
·next day or nearly immediate installation (reputable companies are usually booked in advance); 
limited warranty coverage
demand cash down payment or even payment in full before the work is started.
avoid returning calls and are sometimes aggressive when questioned

BBB strongly urges consumers to protect themselves by exercising extreme caution and due diligence when searching for a reputable paving contractor.
Arm yourself with knowledge of local bylaws.
Avoid out of area contractors as many disreputable contractors move from area to area before their poor workmanship and questionable business practices catch up to them.

Remember – if a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is.