We’ve already experienced a good bit of winter weather this year, and that’s not going to stop any time soon. There is no doubt we are going to experience frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall in the Washington DC and Bethesda, MD areas this year. Make sure you are ready so you don’t need last-minute snow removal services. Having a solid plan with a reliable snow contractor is vital for any business.
Commercial Snow Removal Services
If you own a business in Pennsylvania, Washington DC, or Maryland, snow has a big impact on your business and bottom line for half the year. So it’s vital to make sure you hire the best commercial snow removal services to keep your business operating and to keep visitors safe all season long. Don’t be tempted to save money and increase risks by doing DIY snow removal. This is dangerous and can be an expensive decision if lawsuits are filed.
How to Find the Best Snow Removal Companies
It’s not wise to simply search the internet and select the first company you find under “snow removal services.” Instead, have a plan and list of questions that help you truly select the best snow and ice management company. Here are some things to look for specifically:
1. Large Variety of Snow Removal Equipment
Ask or visit their location to see exactly what snow removal equipment the contractor uses. Professional snow contractors need more than a pickup truck with a snowplow to service commercial customers in the robust Mid-Atlantic winters. The largest snow storms require heavy-duty equipment to move or relocate massive amounts of snow quickly in large areas like parking lots and roadways. And on the other side, small equipment like skid steers are needed for removing snow in intricate areas like sidewalks and walkways. The best snow contractors have a wide range of snow removal trucks and equipment to address a variety of property layouts and weather conditions.
2. Snow Service Options
Make sure you know the full extent of the snow removal services that are being offered. There should be an initial property assessment that includes a written snow removal plan. The plan should detail all aspects of the work that will be done with details like adding snow stakes to mark plowing hazards like curbs or speed bumps. If you’re only getting parking lot snow plowing, re-think your services for the best protection in a potential slip-and-fall lawsuit. Walkways and sidewalks are just as important. Think about if your property has room to relocate snow on-site or if it needs to be moved elsewhere for the safety of all.
3. Communication Methods
Make sure you know when and how each storm will be approached so your expectations can be met. Find out if your contractor will notify you after service has been provided. How will they keep you up-to-date?
When will services be provided? You may need your parking lot and walkways cleared by a specific time when you open each day. Make sure you get those details in writing. We always recommend a snow removal contract in writing.
4. Amount of Insurance
It’s not just important that a snow contractor is licensed and insured, but make sure you know the policy amount. Have them explain what happens if someone slips and falls on your property. Who is responsible if your property is damaged due to a slippery parking lot? What if there is a lawsuit? Who repairs the damage? Make sure you understand your options and the procedure related to managing your risk. Professional snow and ice management companies should have a solid answer about how their services reduce your risk.
5. Company Research & Reviews
Even when a company looks trustworthy and reliable, there is a risk that requires detailed research, along with checking references and reviews. If a company is unable or unwilling to provide references or answer all your questions, they are either hiding something or not interested in earning your business.
6. Contracts Prepare Your Company for the Worse
You would expect people to sign a contract to guarantee high-priority services and a snow management company is no different. An excellent way to protect your business is to establish a commercial snow management contract in writing. Then you know exactly when and how frequently your property will be serviced. You will know costs, limits, liability, communication, equipment available, and more. The first thing you will notice when looking into commercial snow plowing contracts is that there are several different types of contracts.
The most common snow removal contract is a Seasonal Contract. This type of contract is customarily set for 2 or 3 years in advance at a fixed rate regardless of how much snow falls. Because the pricing is set and not affected by the number of times the property needs clearing, it favors the clients during a year with heavier snowfall, however, it will favor the contractor during years with less snowfall.
Next, you have a “Per-Push” snow removal contract. With this type of contract, you will pay only when service is needed. This type of contract is ideal for property owners who want to only pay for the services they actually receive, and in smaller increments.
The third type of common snow and ice management contract is the “Per-Inch” contract. With this type of contract, you will pay per inch of snow that is removed from your parking lot. This isn’t as common, but it is still an option that some contractors use. The number of inches that fall is determined by the local weather station to avoid disputes.
Then some snow contractors use a “Per-Event” contract. In this case, a flat rate is paid every time there is a snow event that accumulates a set number of inches of snow, and service is required. Commonly, that amount is 2 inches and this is a relatively common snow contract.
Finally, there is a “Time-Based” contract. With this contract, customers pay per hour for however long it takes for the snow management company to clear all the on-site snow and ice. This can be popular if the property has intricate areas that are more time-consuming than wide-open spaces for removing snow. After all, removing a couple of inches of snow in a wide-open parking lot is much faster than having to shovel it or use special equipment for small walkways or narrow paths.
Which Washington DC Area Snow Removal Service is Best for My Company?
Rasevic Snow Services provides every high-quality snow removal service mentioned above and more. Our team is experienced and well-trained. We take time to analyze the needs of your commercial space and develop a unique plan of service based on the information we gather. When you hire the best snow removal services, you shouldn’t need to worry about your business closing due to snow-covered parking lots and walkways.
Contact us at Rasevic Companies today to discuss your commercial snow removal needs.