Kentucky Couple Targeted by Paving Scam Crew

A couple in Lexington, Kentucky, encountered a suspicious paving crew that arrived uninvited, began working on their driveway, and subsequently demanded an exorbitant $78,000. Initially quoted $2 per square foot, the price mysteriously escalated to $9 per square foot on the final invoice. The crew's explanation of having nearby asphalt due to a water main break was a tactic to pressure the homeowners. After receiving an invoice without a company name and a disconnected phone number, the couple became fearful.

The Better Business Bureau has identified this encounter as a classic asphalt paving scam. Key warning signs include unsolicited offers, claims of leftover materials, immediate work commencement, vague company details, out-of-state vehicles, and high-pressure sales tactics. The BBB advises homeowners to secure written contracts detailing all aspects of the work and ensure the contractor has a legitimate local presence and proof of insurance.

The couple has filed a police report and alerted state authorities, including the Fayette County Attorney's Office and the Kentucky Attorney General's Office, to prevent others from falling victim. They emphasized that even cautious individuals can be deceived by these scams, which often involve shoddy work, inflated prices, and difficulty in holding contractors accountable. Homeowners are urged to be vigilant, verify contractor credentials, and avoid upfront or cash payments.