Snow Removal Contracts: What to Look for When Hiring a Professional

When winter weather hits, promptly clearing snow and ice from your property’s walkways, parking lots, and driveways becomes a priority. While tackling smaller areas yourself, larger commercial properties usually require hiring professional snow removal services to get the job done right. Knowing what to look for when selecting and contracting with a snow removal company will ensure excellent service all winter long.

Don’t skimp on checking credentials when hiring snow removal professionals:

• Look for established companies licensed to operate in your state and locality. Licensing proves they meet standards and carry proper insurance.
• Require contractors to show proof of general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you if injuries or property damage occur.
• Choose a company affiliated with professional organizations like SIMA, which indicates commitment to best practices and training.
• Check company safety records. Their practices should emphasize operator safety when using snow removal equipment.

Vetting credentials upfront gives you assurance you’re hiring reputable, experienced contractors.

Find out specifics about the equipment and methods contractors use for clearing snow:

• Ask what types of snow plows, snowblowers, deicing equipment, and vehicles they utilize. Look for commercial-grade equipment and newer model plows.
• Inquire about their snow clearing process. Efficient routing, properly sized equipment, and experienced operators improve productivity.
• Request details on how they handle areas like tight corners, parking spaces, sidewalks, stairs and handicap ramps that require special care when clearing snow.
• Make sure they have backup equipment available in case of breakdowns. Their shop facility should also be nearby to handle repairs promptly.

The right snow removal equipment and proven processes lead to faster, more thorough clearing results.

No two properties have the exact same snow removal needs. Provide details about your property so contractors can tailor their services:

• Inform them of the total size areas that require snow clearing services such as parking lots, driveways, walkways. Provide dimensions.
• Note any high traffic areas such as main entrances and key walkways that are top priority for deicing and clearing.
• Mention low clearances, overhangs, tight access points that large equipment can’t reach. These areas may need special attention.
• Ask about options for handling unique features like exterior stairs, handicap ramps, loading docks. These require modified techniques.
• Explain your location’s average annual snow totals so they can provide appropriate equipment and staffing.

Clarifying your property’s layout and features will get you a more customized snow management plan.

Prices and contract terms can vary widely between professional snow removal companies:

• Get bids from at least 3 contractors outlining their rates for basic per push plowing, deicing, sidewalk clearing, snow hauling or removal services.
• Consider both flat-rate seasonal contracts and pay per service pricing. Flat rates offer more predictable costs but may overcharge for light winters.
• Ask if they offer discounts for multiple properties or contract terms over multiple years. This may offer savings.
• Inquire if overtime fees apply and what triggers them. These fees can add up quickly during major storms.
• Avoid vendors that require large upfront retainers or prepayments. Reasonable down payments for seasonal contracts are acceptable.

Thoroughly compare options to choose the pricing and contracts that work with your winter maintenance budget.

Snow removal timing is key, so responsiveness matters:

• Ask what the contractor’s response time is once a storm starts. The best services will arrive promptly when specified trigger depths are met.
• Find out if they provide product application and plowing status updates during storms. Real-time updates give you peace of mind.
• Look for guarantees backed by penalties regarding maximum time to complete initial and post-storm clearing for your property.
• Inquire about their communication process. You need to easily reach them regarding accumulations, hazardous conditions or other issues.
• Request a sample recordkeeping log of their snow response at a property to verify prompt service.

Quick response and ongoing communication means safer conditions and less business disruption from storms.

Putting in the effort to vet snow removal contractors thoroughly pays off over the long winter. Target companies with proven expertise, appropriate equipment, and service models that meet your property’s specifications. Verify licenses and insurance. Compare pricing and service guarantees. With the right partner for snow removal, your property will stay cleared and safe all season long.

Q: How do I know if a snow removal contractor is properly insured?

A: At a minimum, contractors should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Require them to provide you documentation of up-to-date policies that show adequate coverage levels from insurers licensed in your state.

Q: When should I sign a snow removal contract?

A: It’s best to lock in a contract before the winter season begins, often in late fall. This guarantees you have a vendor lined up and that they can properly plan staffing and equipment needs to service your property. Avoid waiting until the first storms hit.

Q: What is included in basic snow plowing services?

A: Standard snow plowing entails clearing and plowing all driveways, parking lots, and walkways on your property once a predetermined trigger depth is reached (often 2-3 inches). Contracts specify which areas will be plowed.

Q: Should my snow removal contract include deicing?

A: Deicing high traffic areas is usually an optional add-on service beyond basic plowing. Clarify in the contract what areas will be treated, the deicing products used, and what accumulations trigger application.

Q: Are there benefits to multi-year snow removal contracts?

A: Multi-year contracts of 2 or more years can secure lower per push or seasonal rates from contractors. They can invest in equipment and staffing to efficiently service your property long term knowing they have a locked-in contract.