It can be difficult to know what to look for when hiring a snow and ice management company. The process can almost seem daunting if you aren’t sure of what you need. There are a few important factors to consider to assure you get the highest quality and most reliable service. Here are some helpful tips for selecting a snow and ice management company.
Check Certifications
First and foremost, check to make sure that the snow and ice management company you choose is certified. They should have qualifications from the Accredited Snow Contractors Association (ASCA) and Snow and Ice Management Association (SIMA). Also, do your research on the company. Check out reviews on social media, YELP, Google, etc.
Plan Ahead
Although it may be tempting to avoid thinking about frigid winter weather until it’s here, if you wait too long, the best snow services may not be able to accommodate you. Make a conscious effort to begin researching snow and ice management companies months before the first snowfall to ensure proper care over the winter months.
Set a Budget
Since Michigan winters can be unpredictable, it can be difficult for some to set a budget for snow and ice removal services. Pricing and payment plans vary per management company and per client. Here are some questions to consider when budgeting for snow removal: Do you want to pay per inch and potentially go over budget in a heavy winter? Do you want one fixed-rate price and potentially lose out in a light winter? The answer to these questions varies based on location, site size, and flexibility. Talk through them with yourself or your team until you are content with your plan.
Ability To Serve
During unpredictable weather, it is important to assure the company you choose is able to serve you – even in the more severe conditions. To do this, first, check to make sure the equipment the company has is of the size and strength to maintain your property. Consider any specific features your site may have and what is needed to clear them. It is also important that the company can reach you with these tools in a timely manner. The closer the company is to your site, the better. Finally, carefully read customer reviews across multiple platforms, looking closely at reliability concerns.
Risk Management
Inclement weather conditions call for heightened safety concerns, which is why the company you choose must have proper liability insurance coverage. Confirm that those working on your property have the proper skill set and knowledge to get the job done.
We hope these tips for selecting a snow and ice removal company are helpful, and if you still need some help, give us a call. We’d love to help you keep your property and customers safe.