In the Twin Cities we can see an average annual snowfall of 45.3 inches and an average of 100 days per year with at least one inch of snow cover. Not only does snow fall from October through March, it can be preceded, mixed with or followed by rain, freezing rain or sleet.
Keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice is the neighborly and safe thing to do in winter.
Depending on the location of your property, you’re likely required to clear sidewalks after the end of a snowfall within a certain timeframe; it could be between four hours and 24 hours. Apartment and commercial building owners are better off removing snow immediately to avoid problems later, especially when rain and heavy snow is involved.
Slip-and-fall accidents can be common during the winter months. Thorough snow removal can help in preventing such accidents, but ongoing maintenance to keep sidewalks and steps dry will help reduce the liability property owners could face.
At Tru-Serve, we see all levels of quality and quantity when it comes to snow removal. Be sure to contact us immediately to remove snow from your properties.
Tips for Snow Removal
- The sooner snow is removed the less likely ice will form
- Shovel snow from sidewalks on all side of the property
- Shovel the full width of the sidewalk
- Shovel to the concrete and remove all ice
- Use salt to melt the ice, if necessary and maintain updated salt logs (i.e. location, date, time, etc.)
- Once the sidewalk is cleared, sprinkling a little sand can help prevent slipping
- Shovel around garbage cans and recycling bins
- Pile snow on the property rather than in the street or the alley
- Use the proper snow removal equipment to avoid back injuries
- Arrange for snow removal during planned vacations
It is also good to keep sidewalks clear throughout the winter to avoid complaints from residents and renters. One complaint could lead to fines from the city and nearly every city has an ordinance declaring snow removal from sidewalks as the responsibility of the property owner, tenant, or both.
