Questions to Ask Potential Paving Contractors

If you’re looking for a new paving contractor, it’s important to choose one that best suits your needs. Whether your upcoming paving project involves a new driveway, a large parking lot, or a multi-lane thoroughfare, you’ll need a paving specialist that has the right background and expertise to get your job done right. But finding the right contractor may prove challenging. After all, how do you know that the company you’re choosing is reputable?

We’ve compiled the following list of questions to help you make the right choice for your future paving projects:

• How long have you been in business in this area? It’s always best to choose a paving contractor that has been doing business in your local area for a number of years. And picking one that is locally owned is better still.
• Can you provide a list of some projects that you’ve completed here locally? Nothing will give you a more reliable recommendation than seeing examples of the actual projects that a contractor has completed. Ask for a list, then visit those projects in person. If you can’t visit in person, ask for photos of projects they’ve completed. Some paving contractors actually post photos of past projects on their websites.
• Are you insured? Many states require that contractors be bonded and licensed. And although neither is required for contractors inside the state of Texas, it’s still important to know that your contractor carries insurance in case of an accident.
• Can you provide a free estimate? Most reputable paving companies will be glad to provide an estimate for their services free of charge.
• What is included in your scope of work? Your paving contractor’s estimate should include a very clear scope of work – one that lists every step involved in your project.
• Does the estimate include all anticipated charges for the project, or are there additional hidden fees I should know about? Don’t hesitate to ask this question. The last thing you want is to find out halfway through your paving project that there are additional expenses that weren’t included in the estimate.
• Should I choose asphalt or concrete for my paving project, and why? It’s important that your paving contractor choose the best paving material for your specific needs – not just because one is more expensive than another. Ask what type of material they recommend, and find out why.

Locating the best paving contractor for your upcoming project isn’t nearly as daunting as it may seem at first. In addition to asking the right questions, consider doing a little online reference checking as well, and take into consideration word-of-mouth recommendations from family and friends. Choosing a reputable, trusted, local paving contractor is always the first and most important step in any paving project.