Snow Removal Best Practices for Commercial Properties

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:

1. Emergency exits and fire lanes
2. Main entrances and walkways
3. Handicap-accessible routes
4. Parking lot traffic lanes
5. 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

• 24/7 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

1. What is your response time guarantee?
2. How do you handle multi-day storms?
3. What happens if equipment breaks down?
4. Do you carry liability insurance?
5. Can you provide references from similar properties?

JC Property Maintenance offers comprehensive commercial snow removal services. Contact us to discuss your property's needs.