Snow removal contracts and companies

How to find qualified pros

It’s hard to know if a company is up to scratch without trying them out, but doing your research and checking on certain things will bring you one step closer to a worry-free winter.

Sick of shovelling? Ask your neighbours who they use for snow removal and whether they’re satisfied. Many companies start advertising in early fall by knocking on doors, sending mailouts and flyers, and putting ads in local newspapers. Plus, lots of landscaping companies offer snow removal services in the winter. Don’t hesitate to get quotes from multiple companies. Make sure to provide a detailed description of your needs (deadline for clearing, minimum amount of snow, etc.). CAA-Quebec’s Residential Advisory Services are here to look over your contract or give you an objective opinion on your quotes. Any good snow removal company should:

• Have an address, not just a phone number
• Have a website or app that tells you when they’re coming
• Provide a proper contract and invoices
• Provide customer references upon request
• Be listed in the Quebec Business Registry and have liability insurance in case of damage to your home or vehicle Not have any complaints lodged against them with Quebec’s consumer protection bureau

What should snow removal contracts contain?

Ask for a written contract that sets out at least the following information:

• Duration: Contracts usually cover only a certain portion of the cold season.
• The minimum amount of snow for removal: 2cm or 5cm.
• The deadline for the first snow removal of the day: Especially important if you leave early in the morning.
• Your specific needs: Snow removal from stairs or balconies, applying de icer or abrasives, instructions on where to put the snow (including municipal restrictions), etc.
• Location of hedges, shrubs, and other fragile plants: Add extra markers to the ones installed by the company to further protect your plants.
• Price and payment terms: Ideally, you shouldn’t have to pay a deposit because the contract you signed is binding. Some companies offer a discount if you sign and pay early. That could be a worthwhile option if you already know and trust the company.

Can I cancel my snow removal contract?

Yes, but you need a good reason:

• The company fails to comply with a clause in the contract (e.g., not clearing snow by the established time)
• It fails to complete specific tasks listed in the contract (e.g., shovelling your porch)
• You signed a multi-year contract, but you’re moving

Can snow removal companies charge extra?

Snow caps are becoming increasingly common in snow removal contracts. These contracts aren’t standardized like lease agreements. Companies use caps to ensure they make a minimum amount of profit, even in the event of an unusually snowy winter. Additional charges apply above a certain threshold. Don’t pay unless it’s clearly indicated in the contract. And if it isn’t, the company is obliged to clear your driveway.

What do I do if they stop showing up?

Say winter’s dragging on into April and the company has stopped showing up. The first thing you should do is check your contract for an end date. If it doesn’t have one, the company is obliged to honour its commitments. If there is an end date, the company will probably help you out if you call, but they may charge extra. A good company that cares about its customers and wants you back next year won’t leave you in the lurch.

I left my car in the driveway and the snowplow damaged it. Who’s responsible?

Even the most conscientious snowplow operators can make mistakes. Snowblowers, scrapers, and tractors are big machines and accidents do happen. If your home, landscaping, or car gets damaged, talk to the company about possible compensation. They may be covered by liability insurance. If they refuse, you can send them a formal notice. If you are still unsuccessful, you can take them to small claims court.

Check out more home maintenance tips for winter:

- Ice damming on roofs

- When to clear snow from your roof

- Buying or renting a car shelter

- Tools for snow removal

- Winter home maintenance