Frigid temperatures. Ice scrapers. Salt bags. Snow plows. These are some of the words that come to mind when you think of “Old Man Winter”. And with winter weather comes the task of finding the right snow removal company for your condominium, homeowner, or townhome association.
Here are three factors to consider when comparing snow removal companies.
- Experience and Reputation
Hiring a snow removal company with a good reputation will help ensure that your association will be taken care of promptly and appropriately. Since you are welcoming these individuals into your neighborhood, take the time to vet and hire the right company for your community.
Additionally, consider the experience each company offers. Some of the best snow removal companies put their drivers through training to ensure they are safe and efficient.
- Contract Review
Before hiring any snow removal company, have the association’s attorney review the contract prior to execution. Contractors and vendors write their own contracts or have their attorney draft the agreement for their benefit. The association’s attorney can ensure the contract protects the community.
Every contract should contain the following:
- A specific start and end date
- Detailed areas that are to be plowed, shoveled, or blown (use a map, if desired)
- When snow should be removed from your association (snow triggers)
- Insurance requirements – Your association should be named as an additional insured on the contractor’s insurance policy
- Provisions for keeping a snow log
- 24-hour telephone availability to address problems with melting snow and ice formation
- Language requiring that the contractor is responsible for property damage done to any part of the association due to negligence
- Liability
Snow and ice can expose the association to a great deal of liability. A slip-and-fall can occur in an area that was neglected or has unnatural accumulation. Or a lawsuit can originate due to property damage caused by snow removal services. Accordingly, it is vital to confirm that your snow removal contractor carries the correct type and amount of liability insurance.
If your Association has questions regarding your current snow removal contract or adopting a new contract, do not hesitate to contact our law firm.
Since 1983, KSN has been a legal resource for condominium, homeowner, and townhome associations. Additionally, we represent clients in real estate transactions, collections, landlord/tenant issues, and property tax appeals. We represent thousands of clients and community associations throughout the US with offices in several states including Florida, Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.
If our law firm can be of assistance, please call 855-537-0500 or visit www.ksnlaw.com.
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