How to Avoid Driveway and Patio Renovation Scams

TAMPA, FL--(Marketwire - October 21, 2009) - With the media trumpeting economic recovery, many homeowners are thinking now is the best time to enhance their home values with driveway and patio renovations. The trick, according to one expert, is avoiding the scams.

"Now is the perfect time to take advantage of low prices and news of imminent recovery bolstering home prices," said Scott Dempsey, V.P./Chief Executive Officer of C & D Pavers, a manufacturer of a common concrete overlay system used in patio and driveway renovations (www.thinpavers.com). "However, as the demand rises for these services, consumers need to beware of unscrupulous contractors."

Dempsey's company doesn't do the install work on the product they make, but rather, they supply the contractors who do, so he's very familiar with the types of contractors to avoid. He recommends the following tips to avoid scammers:

--  Know what you're getting -- There are some very expensive types of
    products used for re-paving, and there are some overlay systems that cost
    less. Make sure you know what you are getting, so that you aren't paying
    too much.
    
--  Company history -- How long has that contractor been in business? Are
    they new, or have they been around a while? Don't be afraid to look them up
    on the Internet.
    
--  Cash -- Contractors that demand a significant CASH payment up front
    should automatically throw up a red flag.
    
--  Materials -- Reputable contractors use good materials with brand names
    and some level of warranty. If you're told you have to pay extra for a
    basic warranty, chances are that you're being scammed.
    
--  Writing -- EVERYTHING regarding your job, including the cost estimate,
    time estimate and materials being used, should be communicated in writing.
    

"Real estate agents and even Money Magazine have all said that upgrading your home with brick pavers is one of the best things that a seller can do to increase their home's value," Dempsey said. "But people should use caution to ensure they are getting what they paid for."

About Scott Dempsey

Scott Dempsey is the VP/Chief Executive Officer of C & D Pavers, a manufacturing company that specializes in the production of 1 1/8" thin pavers and coping products. Dempsey is also the former host of the television show, "Home Smart" on WTSP-TV Channel 10 in Tampa Bay.

Contact Information: Contact: Rachel Friedman Rachel@newsandexperts.com