Snow removal: Overview, definition, and example
What is snow removal?
Snow removal refers to the process of clearing snow from surfaces, such as roads, sidewalks, parking lots, and driveways, to ensure safe passage and prevent accidents. This process is typically carried out using tools and equipment like shovels, snow blowers, plows, and salt or other de-icing chemicals. Snow removal is essential during winter months in areas where heavy snowfall occurs to maintain accessibility and safety for pedestrians, drivers, and property owners.
In simpler terms, snow removal is the act of getting rid of snow from walkways, roads, or other areas to keep them safe to use during the winter.
Why is snow removal important?
Snow removal is important because it helps maintain safety and accessibility during winter weather. Snow can make roads slippery, block pathways, and create hazardous driving conditions. Removing snow prevents accidents, keeps people from slipping, and ensures that essential services, such as emergency vehicles, can operate without obstruction. It also helps prevent the buildup of ice, which can be even more dangerous than snow.
For SMB owners, ensuring snow removal in the workplace or at business locations is crucial to prevent liability, ensure the safety of employees and customers, and maintain smooth business operations during winter.
Understanding snow removal through an example
Imagine you own a retail store in a region that experiences heavy snowfall during winter. After a snowstorm, you hire a snow removal service to clear the parking lot, sidewalks, and entrance to the store. This ensures that customers can safely park and walk into the store without worrying about slipping or navigating through snow piles. By keeping the areas around your business clear of snow, you reduce the risk of injury and maintain a positive customer experience.
In this case, snow removal helps your business stay open and accessible during winter months, protecting both your customers and your business from potential safety hazards.
Example of a snow removal clause
Here’s an example of what a snow removal clause might look like in a commercial lease or service agreement:
“The Landlord is responsible for ensuring that snow and ice are removed from the parking lot, walkways, and building entrances within [X] hours of a snowstorm. The Landlord will use appropriate equipment and de-icing materials to maintain clear and safe access to the property. If the Landlord fails to remove snow in a timely manner, the Tenant may arrange for removal and deduct the cost from the rent.”
Conclusion
Snow removal is a crucial service for businesses and property owners in areas that experience winter weather. It helps ensure safety, accessibility, and smooth business operations by clearing snow and ice from walkways, parking lots, and entrances. For SMB owners, having a clear snow removal plan in place can help prevent accidents, reduce liability, and ensure that the business remains accessible during snowy conditions. Whether you handle it yourself or hire a service, snow removal is an important part of maintaining a safe and welcoming environment during the winter.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.