Snow and ice are unavoidable realities for commercial property owners or managers. Snow-covered parking lots, walkways, and loading docks can lead to safety hazards, operational disruptions, and liability concerns. Some business owners might attempt to manage conditions themselves or assign them to maintenance staff, but hiring a professional provides benefits other than convenience. Professional snow removal service providers use equipment and methods that can keep your property safe, operational, and visually appealing.
This post discusses the advantages of hiring professional snow removal services.
Advantages of Hiring Professional Commercial Snow and Ice Management Services
Here are the perks of hiring experts to clear snow on your property.
1. Improved Safety
Snow creates hazardous conditions in parking lots, walkways, and building entrances. Slip-and-fall accidents account for most hospital visits, with significant incidents occurring during winter. When businesses handle snow removal in-house, safety may be overlooked or inconsistently managed because of a lack of proper equipment. Professionals focus on creating a safe environment by thoroughly clearing snow. This encourages employees and customers to feel safe moving around your property.
Clearing snow is only half the challenge. Ice poses an equal safety risk during freeze-thaw cycles. Icy surfaces can cause accidents and wear and tear to vehicles or equipment. Trained personnel can minimize these icy conditions by applying eco-friendly anti-icing agents or providing regular salting services for safe walkways and parking lots. This approach may keep your property safer for longer and minimize the need for constant intervention.
2. Greater Liability Protection
If a customer, vendor, or employee slips on ice or snow that wasn’t properly removed, your business could face fines or legal consequences. Professional snow removal companies carry liability insurance and follow industry standards to minimize these risks.
Outsourcing this responsibility allows you to reduce the chances of facing costly legal battles and comply with local regulations. Some snow management service providers document their work to provide evidence that you took reasonable steps to maintain a safe property.
3. Save Time and Costs
Managing snow removal in-house might seem more affordable. However, the costs of purchasing snow removal equipment, training employees, and allocating time away from their primary duties add up. Hiring a professional team reduces these inefficiencies. Their crews work quickly and effectively by clearing large properties in a fraction of the time it would take an untrained team. This means fewer disruptions to your business operations and allows your employees to focus on their work.
4. Boosted Convenience
One of the greatest advantages of hiring experts is their round-the-clock availability. Whether it’s an early morning blizzard or an overnight freeze, some can accommodate your schedule so your property is clear and accessible before your doors open. With professionals on call, you might not need to scramble to find solutions during a storm.
5. Customized Snow Removal Plans
Professional snow removal services, like those provided by Green & Black LLC, offer customized plans to suit your property or business operations. If you manage a large commercial space that needs continuous attention throughout a storm or only prefers snow removal after a set amount of accumulation, they can cater to your needs.
Some also offer hauling services to remove buildup from your property if you have limited space to pile snow.
6. Protect Your Property and Maintain Clean Aesthetics
Snow removal is also about protecting your property from wear and tear. Using the wrong equipment or methods can lead to cracked pavement, damaged landscaping, or scratched surfaces. Professionals use specialized tools and methods tailored to different surfaces to keep your parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways intact. This approach preserves the aesthetics of your property and saves you from costly repairs.
Additionally, a snow-covered property can give the impression of neglect, while a well-maintained space signals professionalism and care. Hiring a professional to clean and safely treat high-traffic areas promotes curbside appeal.
How to Hire the Right Snow Plow Service in Minnesota
Below’s a guide to finding the right partner for your snow plowing needs.
Assess Your Property Requirements
Before researching companies, evaluate your property and its requirements. Ask yourself:
- How large is the area that needs snow removal?
- Are there critical areas that need special attention?
- Does your property require regular ice management?
Look for Local Expertise
Opt for a service provider that understands the local climate and has experience dealing with Minnesota’s extreme weather. Local providers may respond quickly during storms and are familiar with regional regulations. This knowledge puts them in a better position to keep your property compliant while receiving high-quality service.
Verify Their Equipment and Capabilities
The size, type, and condition of equipment a company uses can significantly affect the quality of service. A well-equipped contractor will have heavy-duty machinery, salt spreaders, and other equipment to handle various property types and weather conditions. Ask potential providers:
- What types of plows and de-icing equipment do they use?
- Can they handle a property of your size?
- Are they prepared to clear snow during emergencies?
Evaluate Experience and Reputation
Look for companies with a proven track record of servicing commercial properties similar to yours. Evaluate their reputation in the industry by:
- Checking online reviews and testimonials.
- Requesting references from other businesses they’ve worked with.
- Asking about their history of managing back-to-back storms.
Confirm Liability Insurance and Safety Standards
Since snow removal typically involves heavy equipment and slippery conditions, it’s reasonable to want to protect your business by verifying that the company carries adequate liability insurance. Additionally, inquire about their safety protocols. A reputable provider will prioritize safety for both their workers and your property by:
- Training employees on proper equipment use and de-icing techniques.
- Regularly inspecting and maintaining their equipment.
Compare Quotes
Compare quotes from multiple contractors to find one that aligns with your needs. A good quote should clearly outline expectations, costs, and terms. You can also inquire about:
- Seasonal contracts versus per-event pricing.
- The specific services included.
- Response times during snowstorms or emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snow Removal
Here are some commonly asked questions about professional snow removal services.
How Much Does a Professional Snow Removal Service Cost?
The cost of professional snow removal depends on the size of your property, the frequency of service, and the specific services you require.
Why Is Professional Snow Removal Important?
Professional snow removal is crucial for maintaining the safety, accessibility, and functionality of your property during the winter months. Accumulated snow and ice can lead to slips and falls that could result in injuries and liability issues. Snow removal also prevents wear and tear to surfaces from the freeze-thaw cycle.
What Should I Look for When Hiring a Snow Removal Company?
Look for a company with a proven track record, customizable service plans, proficient scheduling practices, and experience handling properties like yours.
Contact Green & Black LLC for Snow and Ice Management Services
Green & Black LLC specializes in commercial snow removal and ice management to keep parking lots, walkways, and entrances clear, safe, and accessible. We can help you easily manage winter weather by pre-treating your sidewalks, hauling snow, or providing services tailored to your needs. Our team is committed to protecting your property and keeping your business running smoothly.
We also use state-of-the-art scheduling software to monitor real-time conditions and deploy plows and salt crews when and where you need them. Whether you manage a health care facility, hospitality venue, or large warehouse, we have the equipment and experience to handle the toughest winter challenges. Get started with a free quote today.