Comparing Paving Contractors: What NJ Homeowners Should Ask
Don't get burned by fly-by-night contractors. Learn exactly how to evaluate, compare, and choose the right paving professional for your project.
Why Contractor Selection Matters
Choosing the wrong paving contractor can lead to poor workmanship, inferior materials, unexpected costs, and even legal issues. In New Jersey, where freeze-thaw cycles demand quality installation, the right contractor makes the difference between a 20-year driveway and a 5-year headache.
Industry Fact:
The Better Business Bureau reports that paving scams are among the top 10 home improvement complaints in NJ, with homeowners losing an average of $5,000 to unscrupulous contractors annually.
Essential Questions to Ask Every Contractor
Print this checklist and use it when interviewing contractors. Any hesitation or refusal to answer should raise concerns.
Licensing & Insurance
- Are you licensed in New Jersey? What's your license number?
- Do you carry general liability insurance? How much coverage?
- Do you have workers' compensation insurance?
- Can you provide certificates of insurance before starting?
Experience & References
- How long have you been in business in NJ?
- How many driveways have you paved in my area?
- Can you provide 10+ references from the last year?
- Do you have photos of recent similar projects?
Project Details
- What's included in your quoted price?
- What type and thickness of asphalt will you use?
- How will you prepare the base?
- What's your process for drainage issues?
Warranty & Service
- What warranty do you offer on materials and labor?
- Do you provide written warranties?
- What happens if issues arise after completion?
- Do you offer maintenance services?
Pro Tip: Document Everything
Get all answers in writing. Professional contractors will happily provide:
- Written estimates on company letterhead
- Copies of insurance certificates
- License numbers for verification
- References with contact information
đźš© Red Flags: When to Run Away
These warning signs indicate potential scams or unprofessional contractors. One red flag means caution; multiple flags mean find another contractor.
Door-to-door sales with "leftover asphalt"
Scam artists often use this tactic
High RiskDemands large cash deposits upfront
May disappear with your money
High RiskNo physical business address
Fly-by-night operation
High RiskUnwilling to provide insurance certificates
You could be liable for injuries
High RiskSignificantly lower price than others (30%+)
Cutting corners on materials/labor
Medium RiskPressure to sign immediately
Not allowing proper comparison
Medium RiskNo written contract offered
No legal protection
High RiskPoor online reviews or no online presence
History of unsatisfied customers
Medium RiskThe #1 Scam in NJ Paving
"We were paving in your neighborhood and have leftover asphalt. We can do your driveway today for a great price!"
This is ALWAYS a scam. Legitimate contractors don't go door-to-door with "leftover" materials.
How to Compare Quotes Effectively
Quote Comparison Factors
Price
Weight: 25%What to look for: Total cost including all materials and labor
💡 Lowest isn't always best—compare value
Materials Quality
Weight: 20%What to look for: Type, thickness, and grade of asphalt
đź’ˇ Minimum 2" for driveways, 3" for heavy use
Experience
Weight: 20%What to look for: Years in business and local projects
đź’ˇ Look for 10+ years and neighborhood references
Warranty
Weight: 15%What to look for: Length and coverage of guarantee
đź’ˇ Minimum 1 year, preferably 2-5 years
Timeline
Weight: 10%What to look for: Start date and completion timeframe
đź’ˇ Beware of contractors booked months out or rushing
Communication
Weight: 10%What to look for: Responsiveness and professionalism
đź’ˇ Good communication prevents problems
What Should Be in Every Quote
- Site preparation and excavation
- Base material (type and depth)
- Asphalt type and thickness
- Edge reinforcement details
- Drainage solutions if needed
- Cleanup and disposal
- Sealing (if included)
- Warranty terms
- Payment schedule
Quote Comparison Template
Create a spreadsheet with these columns:
- • Contractor name and contact
- • Total price
- • Asphalt thickness proposed
- • Base preparation details
- • Warranty length
- • Start/completion dates
- • Insurance verified (Y/N)
- • References checked (Y/N)
- • Overall impression (1-10)
How to Verify Contractor Credentials
1. Verify NJ Business Registration
Check the NJ Business Gateway: njportal.com/DOR/BusinessNameSearch
- • Confirm business is active and in good standing
- • Verify the business address matches their claim
- • Check how long they've been registered
2. Confirm Insurance Coverage
Request certificates directly from their insurance company:
- • General liability minimum $1 million
- • Workers' comp for all employees
- • Verify you're listed as "certificate holder"
3. Check References Thoroughly
Don't just get references—actually call them:
- • Ask about work quality after 1-2 years
- • Inquire about communication and professionalism
- • Request to see the work if nearby
- • Ask if they'd hire them again
4. Research Online Reputation
Check multiple sources for the full picture:
- • Google Reviews (look for owner responses)
- • Better Business Bureau rating and complaints
- • Facebook community groups for mentions
- • Angi (formerly Angie's List) if you're a member
How Randy Seal Coating Measures Up
âś… What We Provide
- 15+ years serving NJ with 500+ driveways completed
- Full insurance: $2M liability + workers' comp
- NJ registered business in good standing
- Written warranties on all work (1-5 years)
- Detailed quotes with no hidden costs
- 100+ verifiable local references
❌ What We Never Do
- Door-to-door sales or high-pressure tactics
- Demand large deposits (we take 0% down)
- Use substandard materials to lower price
- Rush you to sign immediately
- Hide our credentials or references
- Leave you without warranty protection
Ready to experience the difference a professional contractor makes?
Get Your Free, No-Pressure QuoteYour Final Contractor Selection Checklist
Before You Sign Any Contract:
If you checked all boxes, you're ready to hire with confidence!
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