It’s time to think about snow removal. Here’s what to look for in a snow-removal company

We'll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a snow removal service, helping you navigate the process and find someone reliable!

With winter approaching, it’s time to think about booking snow-removal services, if you need them.

Hugh Doyle, of the Better Business Bureau (BBB), joined CTV Your Morning Ottawa on Tuesday to discuss what to look for and what to avoid when signing a contract with a snow-clearing company.

His first tip is to do some research.

“You should be looking already. A lot of companies, the reputable ones, will be booking up their space, so you definitely want to do your research,” he said.

“You should be starting off on BBB.org. Get two or three different quotes from companies in your area. Make sure that they’re insured. Take a look at their customer reviews and their ratings online.”

Doyle says, in addition to looking at customer reviews, also check out sites like Glassdoor, where employees leave reviews.

“That will tell you a little bit more about the company you’re working with,” he said.

Once you have your quotes and have checked out reviews, the next step is to look at exactly what each company is offering.

“Find out what’s included, find out when they’re going to come and clean your snow. You definitely want to make sure you’re covered for the entire season. You want to check out how many clearings they’re going to do and when they’ll come back for the second pass after the city plow comes by and jams up the bottom of your driveway,” Doyle says.

After you’ve decided on a company. Get it in writing. And pay special attention to liability.

“Always get a written contract, especially when you’re having someone come and do service to your house. Find out what’s included. Find out what the company is liable for and find out what they’re not liable for,” Doyle said.

“A lot of companies will ask you to waive liability on certain property damage, which can add up for you, as a consumer. You just want to make sure that you’re covered in case anything goes wrong.”

Snow clearing red flags

When you’re checking out companies, watch for some of these red flags.

“Check and see if they have insurance. You want to make sure that a company is insured. No insurance, they’re probably not a reputable operation, more fly-by-night,” Doyle said.

He also says to watch for “snow-chasers” who are just looking for a quick buck after a blizzard.

Doyle says this refers to people who are bringing heavy equipment around, and not the kids down the street.

“People who just come around, they have their equipment… you want to be careful with who’s going to be bringing heavy equipment onto your property, again, for liability.”

Common complaints the BBB hears are for companies that did not fulfill their signed contracts. Doyle says you can read customer reviews at BBB.org.

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