Terms & Conditions

Estimates

Estimates are free, carried out at the property, and provided in writing with the work itemised. There is no charge and no obligation to proceed.

An estimate is based on what is visible and on any test digs we carry out at the time. If conditions are found during the work that could not reasonably have been identified beforehand, such as unmarked utilities, buried debris, ledge at an unexpected depth or a failed area under an existing surface, we will stop, explain what we have found, and agree any change in writing with you before continuing. We do not carry out extra chargeable work without your agreement.

Written estimates are valid for 30 days. Beyond that, material prices may have moved and we may need to re-issue.

Booking and deposit

A 50 percent deposit confirms the booking and holds your dates. The balance is due on completion. We accept cash or check. We do not offer financing.

The deposit is credited in full against the price of the work. If you cancel more than seven days before the scheduled start we will refund the deposit less any materials already ordered specifically for your job. Inside seven days we may retain a reasonable amount to cover the scheduling slot and materials.

Scheduling and weather

Work is typically booked 2 to 4 weeks during the season ahead and most residential jobs take 1 to 3 days. We confirm start and finish dates before taking a deposit.

Paving and sealcoating are weather dependent. We will reschedule rather than lay material in conditions that will not allow proper compaction or cure, because doing otherwise produces a driveway that fails early. A weather postponement is not a breach of these terms and does not create a right to compensation, but we will always agree a new date with you promptly.

Our working season runs approximately april through november.

Site access and your responsibilities

Please ensure vehicles, trailers, boats, bins and any other obstructions are moved from the driveway and its approach before the crew arrives. If we cannot access the work area on the agreed day we may have to reschedule and a return visit charge may apply.

Please tell us before work begins about anything below the surface: septic tanks and leach fields, wells, irrigation lines, invisible dog fencing, propane lines, electrical runs to outbuildings and private drainage. We cannot be responsible for damage to unmarked private underground installations, and heavy equipment over a septic system can cause expensive damage.

Public utilities are marked through the statutory dig-safe process where the work requires it.

Permits and approvals

In-place repaving on the same footprint generally does not require a permit. Work that changes a curb cut, widens a driveway, alters drainage or increases impervious area may require town approval, and in some towns we serve stormwater or conservation review can apply.

We will tell you at the estimate which category your project falls into and we will confirm current requirements with the town rather than leaving it to you. Where a permit is required, any fee and the responsibility for obtaining it will be set out on the quote.

Cure times and aftercare

New asphalt needs to be kept free of vehicles for 24 to 48 hours depending on temperature, and remains soft for several weeks afterwards. During that period please avoid parking in the same spot every night, turning wheels while stationary, and placing any point load such as jack stands, kickstands, trailer tongues or dumpster wheels on the surface.

Sealcoating requires 24 to 48 hours before vehicles return. We will give you the specific figure for your job before we leave site.

Damage caused by not observing cure times or by the activities described above is not covered by the warranty.

Workmanship warranty

Our work carries a 1 year workmanship warranty from the date of completion. Full terms, including what is and is not covered, are set out on our warranties page and printed on your quote.

The warranty covers defects in our workmanship. It does not cover normal ageing of asphalt, damage caused by vehicles, plows, chemicals or fuel, ground movement on a base we did not construct, or work altered by others. The warranty applies to the original customer and is not transferable on sale of the property.

Colour, appearance and matching

Asphalt is a natural material and some variation in colour and texture is normal. New asphalt is black and weathers to grey over the first year or two, so new work adjacent to an existing surface will be visible until it has weathered. Where appearance matters, we will discuss doing the full surface at the estimate.

Minor variation in surface texture, roller marks that fade with use, and small differences at joints are characteristics of the material rather than defects.

Liability

We carry liability insurance and a certificate is available on request. Nothing in these terms limits liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, or for anything else that cannot lawfully be limited.

We are not liable for damage to unmarked private underground installations, for pre-existing drainage conditions we were not engaged to correct, or for consequential loss.

Complaints

If something is not right, call the office. We would far rather hear about a problem early and put it right than find out about it in a review. There is no formal claims process to navigate.

Governing law

These terms are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

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