The younger you are, the more exciting snow is. From snow days off school to sledding with friends, a snowstorm can be a great time. But as a business owner or property manager in your adult life, you realize snow can be a danger to your employees and customers as well as a disruption in business. We have had a light season so far, but heavy snows are on their way!
To keep your property safe and accessible for all who visit, it is imperative to clear snow from your driveway and sidewalks. However, there is a lot that goes into ice and snow removal for businesses like yours. Make sure to consider all the costs below while you're planning how to get through the cold season.
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Ice and Snow Removal Pricing: Indirect Expenses of Snow Removal
First, let’s start with the lesser known costs of snow and ice removal. These factors can seriously impact your budget even though they may not be the most obvious:
- Liability Insurance: It's tough to remove snow entirely. Try as you might, there will probably be a tiny section of ice or snow that you miss or that ends up refreezing. Personal liability insurance will protect you against many claims related to accidents on your property. This insurance should cover slips and falls, car accidents, and other property damage. You may also need to look into additional coverage for vehicle operators.
- Records and Paperwork: As a business owner, you should never underestimate the importance of record-keeping. Make sure to keep track of your snow and ice removal. A record of handling weather management is necessary, especially if a lawsuit comes up. Having that documentation can make all the difference.
Ice and Snow Removal Pricing: Direct Expenses of Snow Removal Companies
Snow and ice removal takes an investment of time and money. These investments are necessary even if we only get a few snowstorms during the season. As you search for excellent service for snow removal this winter, make sure to consider the following direct expenses below:
- Owning or Renting a Plow or Truck: You can try a shovel, but it won’t get you very far, and it definitely won’t do the job quickly. A truck or specific plow is a must-have to fully remove all the snow and ice from your property, including your parking lot. But this excellent job comes at a price. Don’t forget about the cost of the plow blade that can be over $4,000 and the mounting fee, which can be up to $1,000.
- Cost of Labor: Unfortunately, there isn’t a robot that can run your truck or man the shoveling of your sidewalk and stairs. Depending on the storm, you may need a worker to keep up with the clearing throughout the day. This will mean special or unscheduled workers will need to come in to work additional or overtime hours with the risk of injury while they work. Don’t forget these costs in your yearly/monthly budgets.
- De-Icing Products: Plowing is the start, but de-icing is a necessary follow-up to truly managing your property during a winter storm. Not only will you need to pay for the cost of the material but also for a salt spreader mounted on the back of your truck. This attachment can cost over $4,000.