Top 5 Things Landscapers Should Know Before Offering Snow Removal Services

As the landscaping season comes to a close, winter approaches. Therefore, most landscaping businesses are considering how to generate revenue during the slower months. Therefore, the snow removal business can be an effective way to generate additional revenue. Generally, snow removal services and landscapers use the same equipment, the same team and the same customers.

However, before delving into the topic of snow and ice management by landscapers, it is essential to understand the legal, operational, and logistical differences between summer and winter services. Below, we have mentioned the top 5 things landscapers should know before offering snow removal services.

1. It’s a 24/7 Business—Are You Ready for the Commitment?

A landscaping business typically has predictable hours and schedules. Still, snow removal often involves working mostly at night or early in the morning. Sometimes the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.

Ask Yourself:

• Do I have a team that’s ready to be on-call or work 24/7 during snowstorms?
• Can I respond quickly when there is a sudden weather change
• Can I operate my business at night or on holidays if necessary?

Being prepared for the unpredictable and irregular hours is important if you want to succeed in this business.

2. Insurance Requirements Are Higher

Snow removal is more closely related to landscaping businesses. There is a high chance of skids and slips due to the ice on the road surface. Property damage and vehicle collisions may occur, for which your business will be liable. So, insurance is a must for any business who are extending its operations into snow removal.

Before Starting:

• Contact your insurance company and ask about snow-specific coverage.
• Ensure that you have enough general liability and commercial auto insurance in place.
• Check with your insurance company to see if you have special snow removal coverage or higher coverage.

Keep all records of the services you provide so that there won’t be any conflict in case of future claims.

3. Equipment Matters—Don’t Use the Wrong Tools

Most landscaping equipment can also be used for snow removal, although not all of it is well-suited for this purpose. Therefore, do not rely solely on summer tools and have your snow removal equipment ready.

Essential winter equipment includes:

• Plow Attachments
• Snow Blowers
• Salt or sand spreaders
• Bulk salt storage

Therefore, it is better to rent or lease the equipment or divide the work and subcontract it. For salt, partnering with Canada Salt Group Ltd ensures a sufficient supply of salt, even during peak demand.

4. Salt and Ice Management Is Just as Important as Plowing

Snow removal business is not just about clearing snow, but also about preventing ice formation. Most homeowners are more concerned about slips and falls rather than snow piles.

You’ll need to understand:

• When and how much salt to apply
• Different types of salts like rock salt, treated salt, and blended deicers and their uses
• Estimating the amount of salt required for each property.

Most landscapers underestimate the salting process and get into the business. Using the right amount of salt keeps the roads and driveways safe and protects you from potential lawsuits.

5. Pricing and Contracts Can Make or Break Your Profitability

Landscaping is a daily business, but snow removal is a seasonal business, and pricing should be determined on a per-push or per-event basis, as the weather is unpredictable.

Consider:

• Do you want a flat-rate seasonal contract that provides a steady income, or per-visit billing that offers more income with associated risks?
• Will you charge extra for salting or include it in the snow removal package?
• At what depth will you start plowing the snow?

It is essential to clearly outline everything you offer to customers in writing to establish trust and demonstrate transparency.

Conclusion: Preparation is Key to Winter Success

Snow removal businesses can be a great source of income for landscapers during the off-season. You should consider it an add-on service rather than a primary business, given its seasonal demand. It is a high-pressure job that requires careful planning, commitment, and involves significant liability.

If you’re serious about offering snow removal, take the time to:

• Upgrade your insurance
• Invest in proper equipment
• Choose a reliable bulk salt supplier
• Offer training for your crew
• Develop clear contracts

Ready to get started? Canada Salt Group Ltd. is here to support landscapers with dependable bulk road salt supply, delivery, and expert guidance all season long.