To make a long story short: a contractor (accidentally?) sawed into our business’s paved blacktop driveway. Two parallel grooves about 18 inches apart; the grooves themselves probably 2 to 4 inches deep…I did not look closely…I was too incensed.

So, what is the best way to have this repaired? Needless to say, we are going to hold said contractor responsible.

Keep in mind, we are in northern Minnesota. Should the grooves be filled in? If so, with what? Should the pavement be torn up and relaid?

What is reasonable and fair to make us whole again?

I wouldn't accept crack-filling as a repair.

Instead, I'd make them remove the 18" wide section (they likely sawed all the way through your driveway) and hire a reputable contractor to lay a new 18" wide section.

They need to do this ASAP before the asphalt plants shutdown for winter.

How wide are the grooves? Smooth edged? If you otherwise like the contractor, I'd not get too excited. Asphalt and hot tar, or cement and hot tar, should seal it.

I've patched larger areas of asphalt by cutting an inward-slanting edge so the bottom area filled is larger than the top. Then pounding in asphalt fresh from the bag. It holds up well. Hot tar and sand over top if in doubt.