There’s no time like now to plan for snow removal services. Whether you’re looking for someone to plow your driveway or contracting a service for your business, here are a few things to keep in mind when hiring an Omaha snow removal contractor.
Most people think that if they have a truck and a blade it qualifies them to be a snow contractor. There are many things that go into being a qualified snow contractor. Having the correct insurance requirements, equipment, product and staff. Your contractor should also have plans of action in place to service the property efficiently.
What kind of staff and equipment is used
At Above & Beyond Complete Grounds Maintenance, an Omaha snow removal company, we suggest you take all aspects of the job into consideration. Does the contractor have all the necessary insurance to cover the property along with his own equipment. This will make sure that if something happens not all the liability falls on the property owner. This would include damage to the property, light poles, curbs, vehicles and buildings on the property. We all know accidents happen, so let’s make sure we are all prepared.
Does the snow contractor have enough equipment to be able to get the job done if it is 1 acre or 80 acres? Make sure that equipment is dedicated to your property. Meaning your equipment does not move around to many different properties. It is also good to do an onsite inspection to make sure the equipment is reliable. Be willing to let them store equipment onsite and have access to electrical outlets to keep machines plugged in to keep them warm. It also never hurts to ask about other places they service in the winter.
Preparation is key
Does your contractor know the lot? Color coded site diagrams are a good way to start. This would show the lot outlines, walks, and hazardous spots to watch out for. It would also contain snow piling points. This will give a clear picture of what need done in the event of a snowfall. Staking curbs and property lines are another way to prevent mishaps. All these things make it easy for both property manager and contractor.
What types of deicing materials will your Omaha snow contractor be using? Always find out what products they use. Make sure they are concrete safe and environmentally safe. Be sure to talk about application rate. The proper rate is key to melting and keeping a safe environment for people. Not using enough product will leave a parking lot not melted and dangerous. Over application can cause damage to concrete and vegetation.
Don’t under estimate the cost of snow removal
Be sure that your contractor is set up with a local supplier or has enough product purchased. Another very important thing to consider is when is it time to come? Is it up to you to contact the contractor or will they come based on accumulating snow? Are weekends and holidays included? Ask the contractor about pricing. After the snow reaches a certain depth, some Omaha snow removal contractors charge by the inch.
Make sure that you are aware of which services you are getting. Are the walks and steps included? What about the cost of salt and ice melt? Will the company clear only after the storm, or during the snowfall as well?
A good Omaha snow contractor, like Above & Beyond Complete Grounds Maintenance, will provide you with a detailed contract that clearly states the scope of work, terms of agreement, specifications, and pricing.
Call Above & Beyond Complete Grounds Maintenance Today
Be open to all forms of communication, texts, emails, and phone calls. The more communication you have with your contractor, the better service you should receive. It also takes the guessing out of service expectations. In the ends it’s always best to go with a reputable contractor that you trust. If you own a business, contact our professional snow removal company in Omaha at (402) 934-8866 for all your commercial snow removal needs.
