Snow Removal Service: What to Look for in a Minnesota Commercial Properties
While it may not feel like it at the moment, winter is coming to Minnesota, bringing with it snow, ice, and wind. Commercial snow removal service companies are ready to help keep your parking lot and walkways clear and safe. Winter in Minnesota can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures, making it crucial for businesses to ensure their properties are safe and accessible.
If you are searching for a commercial snow removal service, Clarity Commercial has a few tips on how to choose the right contractor for your property. Here are a few things we consider when selecting a commercial snow removal service for the properties we manage:.
Find a Snow Removal Service That Fits Your Exact Needs
Not all snow removal services are alike. Some companies operate a fleet of trucks and employ dozens of workers who can make quick work of a large parking lot or extensive walkways. This is especially important for businesses that experience high traffic during winter months, as a timely response to snow accumulation is necessary to maintain safety and accessibility for customers and employees. Other snow removal service providers are owner-operators with a truck with a plow, a snowblower, and a shovel. These smaller companies can provide more personalized service and may be more flexible in scheduling.
Both can be good options, depending on your property’s needs. In your discussions with potential service providers, confirm they can perform every service your property requires. They should be equipped to plow your parking lot, driveway, and sidewalks as needed. It’s beneficial to ask about their equipment and the types of snow removal techniques they utilize. For example, some companies use GPS technology for efficient route planning, while others may employ advanced snow melting systems.
Double-check that the company will promptly and repeatedly come out to salt your sidewalks and walkways, as you could be held liable for a visitor or employee’s slip and fall accident if you leave these areas untreated. Ask about their snow removal schedule; many companies have specific times for coming out after a snowfall, which can be crucial for your business operations.
Common Snow Removal Service Contract Stipulations
Your Minnesota Commercial Snow Removal Service contract should stipulate all of your required services, such as snow plowing, salting, ice management, and any additional clean-up services. Additionally, the timeline for when you can expect your snow removal team to show up after a storm should be clearly outlined. Understanding their response time can help you plan accordingly and inform your customers about potential delays in accessing your business.
It should also include any preventative measures the service provider will take to prevent icy surfaces before a storm hits. This could include pre-treatment of surfaces with salt or other anti-icing agents, which can significantly reduce the risk of ice formation. Your contract should also include what happens to the removed snow. For example, will the company push it to a certain area of your property or haul it away? Knowing how snow will be managed is essential, especially in areas where space is limited.
Remember to confirm how you will get in touch with the company if an issue arises or you have an acute need for snow and ice removal. A reliable service provider should offer multiple channels for communication, including phone, email, and possibly a mobile app for real-time updates.
Look for an Insured Service Provider
Many property owners assume the contractors they work with are insured, but unfortunately, this is not always the case. Since failing to remove snow and ice can leave you open to risk, you need to confirm that the commercial snow removal company you are considering is properly insured for a snow removal service contract. Any reputable company will be happy to share this information with you. Additionally, you might want to request proof of insurance and any relevant certifications.
When evaluating insurance coverage, consider looking for liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. This ensures both your property and the workers performing the task are protected in the event of an accident or injury. It’s essential for your peace of mind to know that the service provider has the necessary safeguards in place.
Winter is here, and snow and ice are on the way. For help finding commercial snow removal services for your property, Contact Us the professionals at Clarity Commercial Today.
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