When it comes to pavement maintenance, no one wants to think of putting money into parking lot repairs. "Why should I?" "What's in it for me?" "That's a lot of money to put into a parking lot when I would rather put it into my buildings".

These statements should be far from the truth. Pavement maintenance is not an expensive proposition. Neglected pavement maintenance is an expensive proposition. After your buildings, pavement maintenance is the next largest expense.

"How do I choose a contractor?" The most common ways are to go through the phone book, call a friend, stop by a jobsite, or look in a magazine. All of these methods are okay and can work for you.

I would suggest you call at least three contractors, have them all meet at your job site, at the same time. Why? Because you want to be educated, not sold. Meeting the contractors at the same time enables you to take advantage of the combined knowledge of all the contractors, to agree on a specified set of specifications, and to have them provide you with an "apples to apples" bid.

Next give the contractors your bid deadline. Never be afraid to ask questions - if they really have your best interest at heart, they won't mind. People who don't ask the hard questions are the ones that get into trouble.

Bottom Line: Once you are comfortable with a contact , stick with him.