The Clallam County Sheriff’s Office is warning county resident to beware of asphalt paving scams.

During this time of year, out-of-county paving businesses may approach a homeowner or a business and offer to repave a driveway or parking lot for a low price. They often target senior citizens and tell them that they’ve just finished with a nearby paving project and have some material left over. They usually insist on cash at the time of the work. Unfortunately, the asphalt starts to deteriorate shortly after they complete the job and leave the area.

Citizens are advised never to be pressured into making quick decisions, especially if the price appears to be too good to be true, sheriff officials say. It usually is safer to deal with a local business that has been in the community for a number of years. Always ask for references and identification.

Be wary of great bargains, lifetime guarantees and other high-pressure sales tactics; it’s wise to ask for written bids from several contractors and evaluate all aspects of their bids.

Check with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries to see if a contractor is registered, licensed, bonded and insured to work in the state. Visit the department’s website at www.lni.wa.gov.

The website also shows how long a business has been registered, if it has any lawsuits against the business’ bond and if it has been cited for any violations.