Dedham Police Warns Residents About Driveway Paving Scams

Dedham Police are warning residents that if a man knocks on your door and says he has extra asphalt and is willing to pave your driveway at a discounted price.  His high pressure approach may cause confusion.  And it's important to know that you are not getting a deal, you are being scammed.

"If you agree, here is what likely happens.  Men and equipment suddenly appear and begin “working” on your driveway.  At some point, the conman claims a mistake was made and you owe thousands more than the original price," police said.  "He threatens that if you refuse to pay, the “work” will cease.  You may be escorted to the bank, to withdraw money.  When you realize the scam you try to cancel the check only to learn it was cashed within minutes of it being written."

Surprisingly, paving scams like this occur regularly in Massachusetts and increase during spring and summer. 

"The perpetrators target senior citizens and are well known to police across the country," police said.

Dedham Police would like residents to avoid victimization and consider the following suggestions:

• Beware of unsolicited offers to do paving work.  Do not let the solicitors inside your home.  Calmly but firmly tell the solicitors you are not interested and tell them to leave your property.  If they refuse your instructions call the Dedham Police. 

• Request to see any solicitors Town of Dedham issued solicitor ID.  If the solicitor does not have a picture ID from the Town of Dedham authorizing him/her to conduct door to door solicitation, they are not allowed to conduct such activity.   

• Educate yourself and your family.  Search the internet for “paving scams.”

• Ask to see proof of the solicitors’ insurance. Conmen rarely have worker’s compensation insurance and if one of them is injured at your home, the claim could be made against your homeowner’s insurance.

• Call the Dedham Police if they begin “working” without your consent for service.

• Be a good neighbor.  Paving scams target senior citizens.

• Call the Dedham Police if you have questions, or if unfamiliar people or companies appear at your door or in your neighborhood.

• Try to remember a description of any solicitors and/or vehicles used by anybody who appears to try to scam you or a neighbor and call the Dedham Police with this information immediately.

"Your vigilance will help police in their effort to keep Massachusetts safe and secure," police said.  "When faced with one of these scammers remember, there is no such thing as extra asphalt."