Snow Removal

What are the Average Costs of Snow Removal Services?

The national average cost of snow removal is $115.

Typically, most companies charge between $52 and $186, with the lower end being $35 and the higher end hovering around $402.

That said, the snow removal cost is relative and depends on a number of factors as below:

Driveway

Although the size of your driveway will affect the snow removal costs, it’s applicable only in bigger increments.

For instance, the difference between a four-car driveway and one-car driveway probably won’t be too much. But if your driveway is much longer or is made up of gravel, then the snow removal costs will certainly be higher.

The cost will also depend on the condition of your driveway. If it’s curvy or steep, then the snow removal costs may increase. This is because it’ll take a plow longer to clear the snow on such driveways than on a standard straight and short driveway.

Snow Removal Equipment

Different snow removal companies will utilize different methods to clear your walkway, sidewalk or driveway.

For instance, a snow thrower or blower will take less time than shovelling, effectively keeping the cost down.

However, the snow removal equipment that they choose will also depend on the conditions, the size and the type of area that needs to be cleared.

Removal Frequency

Some snow removal companies charge for a specific amount of clearings. If you surpass that amount, then the cost will increase for the season.

Essentially, most companies charge per season, per plow or for one-time removal services offered. So find out the cost of each before you hire a local snow removal company.

What to Review in the Snow Removal Estimate?

All snow removal companies will give you an estimate for the services that they offer. Usually, it won’t cost you anything.

Check it entirely and ensure the following points are a part of the estimate.

• Entire driveway and parking lot
• Walkways, sidewalks, steps
• Sanding or salting
• Plow or blow the driveway
• Per push, per storm, by the hour, or a seasonal contract
• Set up reflectors or plow makers
• Cash, check or credit cards
• If a seasonal contract, how do they plan on billing you
• After how many inches will they start plowing
• Any additional charges
• Cleanup services

It’s always a good idea to get a few quotes before you hire a snow removal company. Read the fine print too so that there are no surprises when they give you the final bill.

Besides the quoted price, there may be additional charges during large storms. The cost may also be affected by the depth of the snow. So make sure you fully understand how the company calculates the snowfall and what additional charges may be applicable. Some companies do charge a fixed price.

Before you sign the agreement, ask who will handle damages, such as cracked driveways or broken gates.

Another thing that you need to be aware of are subcontractors or third party snow removal companies.

These companies usually do not pay the contractor who is clearing the snow for days or even weeks, so there is no incentive for them to get the work done fast or right for that matter.

What to Check Before Hiring a Snow Removal Company?

License – Ask for all local and state business licenses.

Proof of Insurance – Check proof of both workman’s compensation and liability insurance.

Business Stability – Find out how long the company has been in business.The longer, the better!

Check Online Reviews – Rely on websites like Yelp to look for reviews and ratings of snow removal companies in your locality.

References – Ask for references and find out about the work, timeliness, cost and whether the clients would use the company again for future work.

24-hour Emergency Service – Make sure your local company offers emergency 24 hour service. If you need to call someone right away, it’s good to know that you will not have to wait a long time for them to come and clear all the snow.

Over the Phone Pricing – Not recommended. The cost of snow removal is something that can’t be estimated before having a look.

Free Estimates – Most companies offer free estimates, ask for one.

Safety Record – You want a company that doesn’t have a high incidence of on-the-job mishaps or injuries.

Building Codes – In certain areas, you’ll need to make sure that the local company meets all building code requirements.

Satisfaction Guarantee – Choosing a company that offers a satisfaction guarantee will ensure that they get the job done right the first time. It will save you money and frustration in the long run.

Cleanup – The snow piles left behind can be in the way. Ask what cleanup work the company includes with it’s services.