Tips for Hiring a Snow Removal Contractor in Western Washington

Winter is coming. No, this isn’t another episode of Game of Thrones, but let’s face it - the snow and ice are just as daunting as the Lannister family.

If you’re tired of breaking your back shoveling and are a business owner wanting to keep your premises safe and accessible, it’s high time to consider hiring a snow removal contractor. 

This post will walk you through why you need a snow removal contractor, the importance of planning ahead, and how to secure the best contractor in town.

Why You Need to Hire a Snow Removal Contractor

Hiring a snow removal contractor isn’t just about saving your back from strenuous labor - although that’s a huge perk. It’s also about making sure you and your customers stay safe, your business stays accessible, and saving money in the long run. 

Imagine waking up to a winter wonderland - beautiful, right? But then reality hits, and you realize your parking lot is buried under 12 inches of snow. 

A snow removal contractor takes that worry off your plate. We show up with professional-grade equipment, like plows, blowers, and ice melters, clearing your paths swiftly and efficiently.

🦺 Safety

For businesses, the stakes of a heavy snow load are even higher than they would be for homeowners. Slippery sidewalks and parking lots are accidents waiting to happen. 

Did you know that slip and fall accidents account for over 1 million hospital emergency room visits annually in the U.S.? Hiring a contractor makes sure that your premises are safe for customers and employees, reducing your liability considerably.

🕰️ Time-Saving and Convenience

Snowstorms can significantly disrupt business operations. Imagine your employees unable to reach your office or your customers turning away because the parking lot is buried under snow. 

A snow removal service makes sure your business remains operational, even during heavy snowfalls. This could give you a competitive edge, especially if your customers have to choose between one business with a clean, plowed parking lot and entryway, and another that’s still buried in snow. Nobody wants to trudge through six inches of slush to get their shopping done, after all.

Time is money, especially during the peak winter months when snowstorms can hit unexpectedly. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we don’t get frequent snowstorms - but when they hit, they hit hard. Don’t be left out in the cold. Make sure you’ve planned ahead for these storms.

That’s the beauty of working with a professional snow removal contractor rather than trying to tackle the snow removal yourself. A professional service guarantees timely snow removal, preventing any interruptions in your daily routines or business operations. We work round the clock, ensuring that your walkways and driveways are clear even before your morning coffee brews.

🛻 Expertise and Equipment

Snow removal contractors bring more than just manpower - they bring expertise. At Nasim Landscape, we know the best de-icing agents, the right techniques to prevent damage to your property, and how to tackle even the most stubborn snowdrifts. 

Plus, we have access to heavy-duty equipment that can handle large volumes of snow much faster than your standard shovel or snow blower.

Professional contractors also stay updated with weather forecasts and can anticipate snowfalls, planning our schedules accordingly. This proactive approach guarantees that your property remains accessible and safe, no matter how severe the storm.

🏦 Protecting Your Property

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your property. 

Accumulated snow can strain roofs, leading to leaks or even collapse in extreme cases. Ice can damage pavements, leading to costly repairs. Professional snow removal services prevent these scenarios, protecting your property from potential damage.

Why Plan Ahead for Snow Removal?

Planning ahead for snow removal is like buying Halloween candy in August - it may seem early, but you’ll thank yourself later. The last thing you want is to be scrambling for a contractor when the first snowstorm hits. 

During June, July, and August, when others are planning beach trips, savvy individuals are securing their snow removal services.

By planning ahead, you guarantee that you’re on the contractor’s schedule, giving you peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for the winter season.

Booking a contractor during the off-season also allows you to take your time researching and selecting the best service for your needs. You can read reviews, check credentials, and even meet with contractors to discuss your requirements. This thorough vetting process ensures that you choose a service that meets your expectations.

How to Plan for Snow Removal: Step-by-Step Guide

Planning for snow removal is more than just a seasonal chore - it’s an absolute necessity for safety and accessibility (and, let’s face it - the viability of your business).

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you plan for snow removal:

1. Contact Your Contractor Options Now

First things first, don’t wait until you’re knee-deep in snow to contact your contractor. The early bird catches the worm, and in this case, avoids a snow-related disaster. 

By getting in touch with your snow removal contractor early, you can discuss the scope of work and pricing again to ensure there are no misunderstandings. 

It's all about setting expectations so you’re not left out in the cold, literally and figuratively.

2. Assess the Contractor’s Capability

Your contractor might promise you the moon (or snow-free sidewalks), but can they deliver? 

Make sure your contractor is up to the task by checking references and past performance. A quick chat with previous clients can save you from a world of icy trouble.

Of course, you also need to think about your schedule. Coordinate with your contractor to ensure snow removal doesn’t disrupt your business activities.

3. Make Sure Everyone Understands the Scope of Work

A well-planned site map is your best friend when it comes to efficient snow removal. Evaluate your property for critical areas such as walkways, driveways, and parking lots. 

Also, potential obstacles like fire hydrants and curbs should be identified. This will help create a detailed site map that guides the snow removal process.

Take some time to discuss the specifics of the services provided, including bagged salt, de-icing, and pavement treatment. Make sure you understand the frequency and conditions for service delivery - like when temperatures drop below 34 degrees. You don’t want any nasty surprises when a snowstorm hits.

Finally - but perhaps most importantly - determine which areas need to be cleared first. Entrances and high-traffic areas typically take precedence. Set timelines for snow removal based on weather forecasts to keep everything running smoothly.

4. Determine the Equipment and Materials

It’s not unreasonable to ask for pictures of the contractor’s fleet to make sure they have the necessary equipment. The last thing you want is a contractor showing up with a single rusty shovel.

Remember, a well-equipped contractor is a reliable contractor. Make sure they have plows, snow blowers, and salt spreaders. Use eco-friendly de-icing products to keep your property safe without harming the environment.

Also, make sure the equipment is well-maintained and ready for use. A broken-down plow will not do much good when you’re snowed in.

5. Safety First

Prepare for extreme weather conditions by having emergency plans in place. Choose a contractor who has the right insurance and abides by proper safety protocols. This matters to you as a business owner because it ensures smooth operations and reduces liability.

Ask your contractor about how they handle safety regulations and standards, such as OSHA’s guidelines. Find out what precautions they take to keep their workers safe. 

It might seem like it’s their responsibility to abide by these rules - and it is - but as a business owner yourself, you also need to make sure you’re choosing the right partner so that everybody can stay safe on your property.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Snow Removal Contractor

Hiring the right snow removal contractor can save you from a lot of headaches and backaches.  Here are some tips to help you find the right one:

1. Reputation and References

You wouldn't trust just anyone with your car, your home, or your business - so why settle for less when it comes to snow removal? A reputable contractor will guarantee reliability, safety, and professionalism. At Nasim Landscape, we’ve built our name on consistently doing a good job, which means peace of mind for you.

Word of mouth is gold. Ask your neighbors, friends, or local businesses for recommendations. If a contractor is worth their salt, they'll have no problem providing references. 

Don't hesitate to call these references and ask about their experiences. Were they satisfied with the service? Was the contractor punctual and professional? These questions will help you gauge the contractor's reliability.

2. Fleet and Equipment

Imagine hiring a snow removal service only to find out they show up with shovels and a prayer. Not ideal, right? A well-equipped contractor can handle large volumes of snow more efficiently, ensuring your property is clear and safe.

Bigger is better when it comes to snow removal fleets. Look for contractors who have a range of equipment, including plows, snow blowers, and de-icing trucks. Quality matters too - well-maintained, modern equipment means faster and more efficient snow removal.

3. Scope and Flexibility

Not all properties are created equal. Some have more walkways, others have expansive parking lots, and some even have roofs that need clearing. Make sure your contractor understands your property's specific needs and is equipped to handle them.

Also, make sure flexibility and responsiveness are baked into your contractor’s business model. After all, snow doesn’t wait for anyone, so why should you? Your contractor should offer flexible service packages and quick response times. Whether it's a light dusting or a full-blown blizzard, they should be ready to roll out and clear your property.

Key Components of an Effective Snow Removal Plan

Once you’ve found the right contractor - or someone you think will work well for your property - it’s time to come up with a detailed plan for snow removal. Here are some tips:

1. Property Details

A good contractor will start with a complete assessment of your property long before the first snowflake falls. This helps them identify key areas that need attention, making sure nothing gets overlooked when the snow starts piling up.

Driveways, walkways, parking lots, and even roofs - these are the usual suspects that need clearing. A thorough assessment will highlight these areas, allowing for a more efficient snow removal plan.

2. Weather Monitoring

No one wants to be caught off guard by a snowstorm. Reliable contractors use advanced weather monitoring tools to stay ahead of the curve, so they're ready to act as soon as the snow starts falling.

From radar apps to specialized weather websites, professional services employ various technologies to monitor weather conditions. This allows us to plan and execute snow removal operations more effectively.

3. Snow Removal Equipment and Techniques

The right tools make all the difference. A comprehensive snow removal arsenal includes plows for heavy-duty snow removal, snow blowers for precision work, shovels for those hard-to-reach spots, and de-icing materials to prevent ice build-up.

Remember, too, that different conditions call for different techniques. For example, compacted snow may require plowing, while light, fluffy snow can be easily blown away. Knowing which techniques your snow removal contractor will use can make snow removal faster and more effective  - and give you the information you need to choose the right partner.

4. Pre-Treatment and De-Icing Strategies

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to commercial snow removal. Applying de-icing products before a storm can prevent snow from bonding to surfaces, making it easier to clear away later. 

The best snow removal companies, like our team at Nasim Landscape, get ahead of the game by applying de-icing products as soon as the temperature dips below 34 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Regular Maintenance and Follow-Up

Regular maintenance is imperative during heavy snowfall periods. Frequent visits prevent snow accumulation to dangerous levels, keeping your property safe and accessible.

Even after the snow has been cleared, follow-up inspections should be part of the final game plan you work out with your snow removal contractor. These guarantee that all areas remain safe and that any missed spots are promptly addressed.

Plan Ahead for a Hassle-Free Winter

Why wait until the first snowflake falls? Planning ahead is the key to a stress-free winter. By choosing a reputable contractor with the right equipment and a solid snow removal plan, you can enjoy the snowy season without the hassle. 

Don't wait until the first snowstorm hits—contact your snow removal contractor today to secure our services for the upcoming winter season. 

Remember, a well-prepared plan is your best defense against winter's worst.

Whether you’re in the retail, industrial, medical, or hospitality sectors, the right snow removal contractor can make all the difference. Contact us for a commercial snow removal consultation and ensure your property stays safe and accessible all winter long.

Ready to make the smart choice for snow removal? Contact us now, and let's get started!

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