Prevent Snow from Closing Your Business: How to Hire a Snow Removal Contractor

As severe winter weather begins to impact many areas throughout the country, do you have a plan in place to ensure customers, employees, and suppliers can safely access your business?

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) provides the following guidance from the Better Business Bureau on how to hire a snow removal contractor, so your business can safely operate despite the freezing conditions.

HOW TO HIRE A SNOW REMOVAL CONTRACTOR

• Get several estimates. Prices can vary widely and are usually based on the amount of work. Remember, the least expensive service is not always the best service.
• Be sure the contractor is insured or bonded. Also, find out how you can terminate the agreement if necessary.
• Beware of hidden charges. After the snow reaches a certain depth, some snow removal contractors charge by the inch, so you’ll want to find out how the company calculates the size of the snowfall.
• Know what you’re getting and find out exactly what’s included in the estimate. Are the walks and steps included? What about the cost of sand and salt? Will the company clear only after the storm, or during the snowfall as well?
• Ask for references and check them out.
• Check with the Better Business Bureau for a business reliability report on the contractor you’re planning to use.
• Do not settle on an agreement over the telephone. The contractor should provide you with a written agreement. A representative should come out to examine your property and make notes about the service requested and potential obstacles. Before you sign the agreement, ask who will be responsible for damages, such as cracked driveways or broken gates.