GOSHEN – Orange County Sheriff Paul Arteta is warning residents about a home improvement scam that authorities say has been reported with increasing frequency across the county.
The scam typically involves traveling or unlicensed contractors who go door-to-door offering unsolicited driveway paving or sealing services at what appear to be bargain prices. Victims are often charged inflated fees for poor-quality work that deteriorates quickly, according to the sheriff’s office.
One common variation, known as the “asphalt millings” scam, involves contractors claiming they have leftover materials from a nearby job. The scammers use inexpensive asphalt millings and improperly install them without a proper base before demanding payment, often in cash.
Arteta said residents should be wary of contractors who insist on full cash payment before work begins. Legitimate paving companies may require a deposit or partial payment but generally do not demand full payment upfront.
The sheriff’s office also identified several warning signs of potential fraud, including contractors who pressure homeowners to make immediate decisions, fail to provide a business name or written estimate, refuse to give contact information, or avoid identifying themselves by their full names.
Residents should also be cautious of solicitors who ask personal questions about who lives in the home or who is currently present, authorities said.
Anyone who believes they have been the victim of a contractor scam is encouraged to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Bureau at 845-862-4033.
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