Minnesota winters can be pretty unpredictable, but your snow removal rules shouldn’t be. Don’t wait until the first snowfall to have your snow removal contracts set in place—the specifics need to be created ahead of time so that you aren’t flooded with questions and concerns about policies. If you don’t have a snow removal contract in place yet, now is the time to do so. But, what does the contract include?
- The services performed. Your contract should include what services the contractor will be doing for the community, as well as what the homeowners themselves should be doing. The snow removal company will be responsible for cleaning roads, pathways, and parking lots, but it’s up to the board to decide if residents should shovel their own sidewalks and driveways.
- Timing. When will the company come to remove snow? Many companies require at least two inches of snow in order to come remove it, but discuss this with your contractor, as they may have different requirements.
- Cost. Some companies charge a fixed amount for each time they come to remove snow, while others charge per hour. It’s difficult to predict what our upcoming winter will be like, but if it’s anything like the past few winters, a fixed price may be the better way to go.
- Liability information. If the contractor falls on ice and hurts themselves, you need to know who is legally responsible. The company themselves should have proper insurance for instances like these.
- Pre-treatment services. We recommend that you choose a company that offers pre-treatment services, like salting the roads before an upcoming storm. This is typically done a day or two before the storm hits and can reduce the chances of accidents.
- Contact information. When the weather is unpredictable, you need to be able to reach the company 24/7. In addition to their regular office number, make sure you have a number for emergency services.
We certainly hope for a mild winter, but if we’re in for a rough season, make sure to hire a snow removal company that you can count on