How to Choose the Right Snow Removal Company (Before It’s Too Late)
The first snowfall hits North Vancouver—and suddenly your driveway is a skating rink. You call a snow removal company. No answer.
Sound familiar? It happens every year.
Here’s how to choose a reliable, responsive snow removal company before the season hits—and what most homeowners forget to ask.
Why It Matters
When snow hits, you don’t just want your driveway cleared—you want:
- Fast response times
- Safe walkways
- No property damage
- No liability if someone slips
Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Snow Provider
✅ Do You Offer 24/7 Snow Monitoring?
A good company doesn’t wait for your call—they track weather and dispatch automatically.
✅ What’s Your Response Time After a Snowfall?
Aim for less than 6 hours after a snowfall ends—especially for sloped driveways.
✅ Do You Use GPS-Tracked Reporting?
For strata, rentals, and commercial properties—timestamped proof is critical.
✅ What De-Icers Do You Use?
Look for options that are:
- Pet-safe
- Eco-friendly
- Effective in sub-zero temps
✅ Are You Insured for Snow Work?
Snow removal can result in slip & fall lawsuits. Confirm $2M+ liability coverage.
✅ What’s Included in Your Contract?
- Just driveways? Or also sidewalks and steps?
- Flat rate or per-visit?
- Salt included or extra?
Red Flags to Watch For
🚩 No written service agreement
🚩 No insurance proof
🚩 Only reactive (not pre-planned) dispatch
🚩 Delayed communication in the preseason
Final Thought
Snow isn’t just inconvenient—it’s dangerous. A reliable provider will prepare before the flakes fall. If they can’t prove their plan, move on.
