The Stakes Are High
For commercial properties, snow removal isn't just about convenience. It's about:
- Customer safety and avoiding slip-and-fall lawsuits
- Employee access to maintain operations
- Compliance with local ordinances
- Business continuity during winter weather
Creating a Snow Removal Plan
Prioritize Critical Areas
Not all areas need the same level of attention. Prioritize:
- Emergency exits and fire lanes
- Main entrances and walkways
- Handicap-accessible routes
- Parking lot traffic lanes
- Secondary walkways and areas
Know Your Triggers
Establish clear triggers for when snow removal begins:
- Accumulation triggers: Start at 1-2 inches
- Time-based triggers: Clear before business hours
- Temperature triggers: Pre-treat when ice is expected
Equipment and Methods
For Walkways
- Snow blowers for efficiency
- Hand shoveling for detail work
- Ice melt application
- Non-slip mats at entrances
For Parking Lots
- Plow trucks for large areas
- Skid steers for tight spaces
- Salt/sand spreaders for traction
- Designated snow pile locations
Ice Management
Ice is often more dangerous than snow:
- Pre-treatment before storms
- De-icing products (choose wisely for the environment)
- Sand for traction on steep areas
Legal Considerations
Liability
Property owners can be held liable for injuries caused by:
- Failure to remove snow/ice in reasonable time
- Negligent removal that creates hazards
- Re-freezing from improper treatment
Documentation
Protect yourself with:
- Timestamped photos before and after
- Service logs with dates and times
- Weather records
- Signed service agreements
Working with a Professional Service
What to Look For
- Rapid availability for emergency response
- Adequate equipment for your property size
- Insurance coverage (ask for certificates)
- Written contracts with clear expectations
- Communication systems for updates
Questions to Ask
- What is your response time guarantee?
- How do you handle multi-day storms?
- What happens if equipment breaks down?
- Do you carry liability insurance?
- Can you provide references from similar properties?
JC Property Maintenance offers comprehensive commercial snow removal services. Contact us to discuss your property's needs.