Albany family frustrated with paving job

ALBANY, N.Y. (WRGB) - It happens far too often...fake companies making fake promises.

"They could've hurt her. They could've taken more money. It's just something I think everyone needs to be aware of," said Alex Campoli, son of the victim.

Campoli says a man knocked on his mother's door, claiming he worked on her driveway about 10 years ago. He says the man says he wanted to do a follow up and seal the driveway.

"The problem is he said she needed to give him a deposit, which she did not have in cash. Somehow, she was convinced to get into the vehicle with this person,” replied Campoli.

The man and his family, who were with him, drove Campoli's mom to a Stewart's gas shop to take out $500 in cash. She also wrote a check for $2,500.

"The problem is that they didn't use any crack-filling, they didn't remove any root systems that are coming up or weeds that are coming up through the cracks. Basically, all they did was spray,” said Campoli.

CBS6 spoke with an area asphalt-paving company who offered up some tips when it comes to finding the right company for the job.

Joseph Reehl, a sales representative with L. Browe Asphalt Services, says to "make sure there's a clear contract. Make sure there's a warranty attached. If it's a reputable company, just avoid anybody that wants the money upfront... that's probably the most common scam there is."

Reehl says before agreeing to a job, get an estimate done first.

"Compare and contrast, compare apples to apples. The prices are generally competitive,” replied Reehl.

"We hear about it all the time that elderly people are taking advantage of. I don't necessarily know if these people are predators nor do I know if they've done work for anyone else, but I want to say this is a horrible thing. They could've left her somewhere or come back here. They could've gotten back into the house or rob the house,” said Campoli.

If you do suspect someone is trying to defraud you --- call your local sheriff or police department immediately.