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It’s that time of year again–sure it’s the holidays, but more importantly, it’s the snow season. And with snow comes snow removal contracts. As a homeowner in a wintry state, you have probably experienced snow-related confusion in the past. In an HOA especially, it can be difficult to sort out how snow removal is handled and who to go to when hiccups inevitably occur. This quick guide to HOA snow removal should help clear some things up and make this snowy season more approachable.
Understanding HOA Snow Removal
As a business entity, HOA snow removal is about the same as it is with any other business–which is to say that it’s nothing like getting your personal snowblower out of the garage and clearing the driveway. Your HOA factors a few main objectives into snow removal each season: who will do the work, what kind of work will be done and when, and how much it’s all going to cost.
Figuring Out the Who
The governing documents of the HOA outline who is responsible for what when it comes to snow removal. Typically, the HOA is responsible for maintaining common areas, sidewalks, and driveways shared by all residents. But to be clear, that doesn’t mean the HOA board members or your community association managers will be out there shoveling snow!
In most HOAs, snow removal is not handled directly by the HOA or the management company. Instead, it is outsourced to third-party vendors specializing in snow removal services. Sometimes management companies will have premier or preferred vendor partnerships with companies they trust and have worked with over the years, but in the end, it’s up to the HOA’s board members to solicit appropriate bids and decide who to hire.
When Do They Start and What Do They Do?
These vendors enter into contracts directly with the HOA, not with the management company, to provide timely and efficient HOA snow removal during the winter season. That means these contracts should be decided well before the season begins to give these companies time to plan out their snow removal schedules.
It should also be noted that HOA snow removal companies serve more than just residential areas. From hospitals to school zones, snow removal is an important job that helps the entire community function better. Because of this, residential clearing typically happens later in the scheduling (and patience with this is greatly appreciated!)
In addition to start dates, these contracts will often specify details such as snow removal thresholds. For example, a contract may call for a 2-inch minimum for snow plowing or shoveling. When snowfall is below 2 inches, salting and light treatments such as sanding are commonly provided to ensure safety and prevent ice buildup.
Those preventative tasks are also good for homeowners to do! Spreading a little salt on your driveway or in walking areas near your home is a great way to help keep you and your community a little safer.
What Will It Cost?
Can you really put a price on outdoor safety?
(Of course you can.)
The HOA board should work closely with the management company during budget planning to set aside appropriate funds for this. Sometimes this will mean implementing cost-saving measures. Pre-salting is an affordable and common option that can minimize expenses by preventing costly ice buildup.
There’s also a cost difference between shoveling and plowing services. Depending on the anticipated budget needs, such as ongoing maintenance or major projects, some communities may favor the more cost-effective snow shoveling option, even if it is less efficient.
Exercise Patience and Communicate
Patience during the winter season is essential. HOA snow removal is important, yes. But everyone should manage expectations throughout the season and remember the complexities of snow removal schedules. By understanding the balance between budget constraints and the need for timely, effective service, homeowners can contribute to a smoother snow removal process in their community.
If your community is struggling to secure or communicate with snow removal vendors, or if you need additional tips on how to keep the community safe during slip-and-fall season, contact us today. At HOA Strategies, we partner with the highest quality vendors and help communities just like yours strategically prepare for the year ahead. Let us help you manage your snow removal needs.
