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Snow Warriors or Snow Worriers? Assessing Your HOA's Snow Removal Contractor's Performance

Writer's picture: knkmanagementserviknkmanagementservi

Is your snow removal contractor an arctic ace, or is your homeowners association getting the cold shoulder? Use the tips below to evaluate the service your community is getting from your snow removal contractor.


Need a second opinion? Reach out to K&K Property Management for an independent evaluation of your community's snow removal processes and needs.


How to evaluate your HOA snow removal contractor

We’ve officially got the first major storm of the season under our belt here in northern Utah. If you're responsible for managing snow removal in your community, you know the importance of having a reliable snow removal contractor.


But how do you evaluate if they're up to the task? Don't worry; we've got your back! In this guide, we'll walk you through some key criteria to consider when evaluating your snow removal contractor.


Criteria #1 - Response time


The clock starts ticking when those first snowflakes hit the ground. How quickly does your contractor respond when you give them the call? Are they on-site by the time designated in the contract? Promptness is key in snow removal. A contractor who jumps into action promptly can help prevent snow from piling up, making it easier to manage throughout the storm.


Criteria #2 - Safe access during the storm


Snowstorms can be unpredictable, and it's crucial to ensure safe access for homeowners and emergency services. Your contractor should maintain drivable, walkable paths during the storm. They should also have a plan in place for managing icy spots and addressing them promptly.


Remember to keep your expectations reasonable - even the best snow removal contractors can have trouble keeping up with some of Utah's snow dumps. As long as the neighborhood is safe and passable, don't judge snow removal efforts too harshly during an active, extended storm.


Your HOA snow removal contractor should make sure the neighborhood is safe and roads & walks are clear before declaring the job done

Criteria #3 - Final cleanup of the HOA


Once the snowstorm has passed, it's time for the cleanup. Pay close attention to how thorough your contractor is in removing all traces of snow and ice. A job well done means clear sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots.


Don't settle for half-hearted efforts; insist on a clean finish! And don't forget the little details that matter – ensure that fire hydrants are accessible and free of snow, and that community trash cans or dog bag stations are also cleared, so everyone can easily access these amenities.


Remember to keep your expectations reasonable - even the best snow removal contractors can have trouble keeping up with some of Utah's snowstorms.

P.S. Keep in mind that the choices your neighbors make can also impact the quality of your neighborhood's snow removal - plows can't clear parking areas if there are vehicles in the way. Do your community and your contractor a favor and educate your residents about the role they play in snow removal.


Criteria #4 - Communication & documentation


Effective communication is key to a successful partnership. Your contractor should keep the board (if the association is self-managed) or your property manager informed about their plans, progress, and any issues that may arise. Additionally, they should maintain detailed records of their work, including the dates and times of service, materials used, and any incidents.


Make sure your homeowners association snow removal contractor has the right equipment for the job

Criteria #5 - Equipment & resources


Your contractor should have the right tools for the job. Do they have well-maintained snowplows, snow blowers, and salt spreaders? Adequate equipment ensures efficient and effective snow removal.


If they don't have the equipment on hand, you can ask them about plans to purchase it. If they imply that purchasing the equipment is contingent on signing the contract, don't be afraid to spell that out in the contract - and then hold them to it.



Criteria #6 - References & past performance for HOA snow removal


Don't hesitate to ask for references or check their past performance. Speaking with other communities they've served can provide valuable insights into their reliability and quality of service.


Criteria #7 - Fair, competitive pricing


While quality is essential, so is cost-effectiveness. Ensure that the pricing is fair and competitive within the market. Be wary of contractors who significantly underbid, as it could indicate a lack of experience or corners being cut.


HOAs in Park City and Heber face unique snow removal challenges

Criteria #8 - Flexibility & availability


Snowstorms don't always follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Does your contractor offer 24/7 availability during winter emergencies? Flexibility in scheduling and prompt responses to sudden weather changes are essential qualities.


Remember - don't judge mid-storm.


Here's a crucial tip: Don't judge your snow removal contractor solely based on how things look in the middle of a snowstorm. Snow can accumulate rapidly, and it's not always possible to keep up with it in real-time. Instead, focus on their overall performance, including response time, safety during the storm, final cleanup, and communication.


Evaluating your snow removal contractor is a crucial responsibility for HOA boards. By considering response time, safe access maintenance, final cleanup, communication, equipment, references, fair pricing, flexibility, and availability, you can ensure that your community stays safe and accessible throughout the winter months.


Stay warm, stay safe, and let's make this winter season a breeze!


At K&K Property Management, we're here to help you navigate all aspects of HOA management, including snow removal.



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