When it comes to winter weather in Vancouver, many people assume that snow removal isn’t necessary since the city is not known for having heavy snowfalls. However, this is a common misconception. While Vancouver may not experience frequent snow events, it is still important to consider snow removal services during the winter months. In this article, we will explore why snow removal in Vancouver is essential for business and residential property owners alike, and the various factors to consider when choosing a snow removal company.

The Misconception About Vancouver Weather

It’s true that Vancouver is known for its mild winter climate, with average temperatures typically above freezing. However, that doesn’t mean snow & ice is never an issue. In fact, Vancouver experiences an average of five days of snow per year, and an average of 63 nights where the temperature drops below zero. While the snowfall & freezing events may not be as prominent in Vancouver, as in other Canadian cities, it can still cause safety hazards resulting in liability exposure.

Importance of Snow Removal in Vancouver

The primary reason for your property to have snow removal services in Vancouver is safety. Snow and ice can create hazardous conditions, particularly on sidewalks and roadways. This can result in slip-and-fall accidents or vehicle collisions.

Another important reason to consider snow removal is legal obligations. Vancouver has municipal bylaws that require residential property owners to clear sidewalks adjacent to their properties, or they may be subject to fines. Residential strata and commercial businesses have a duty to ensure their property is safe for customers and visitors. Property owners may be held liable for any accidents that occur due to their failure to maintain safe conditions or follow proper winter service procedures on their property.

Types of Snow Removal Services

There are different types of snow removal services available, depending on the size and location of the property. Residential snow removal services typically involve shoveling or snowblowing driveways and walkways, while commercial snow removal may include heavier equipment such as plows and loaders, along with de-icing services of parking lots and sidewalks.

DIY snow removal is an option, however, you increase your liability exposure by not hiring a professional snow removal company that will follow industry best practices and collect the appropriate data in the event of a slip-and-fall lawsuit.

Factors Affecting Snow Removal Cost

The cost of snow removal services in Vancouver can vary depending on several key factors which may include the size and location of the property, liability risk, the type of service required, and frequency of that service, and other specific property metrics.

As winter services are contingent on weather, weather conditions can also impact the cost depending if you are on a per-visit or flat-rate service agreement.

Inflation. In 2022, Canada saw inflation rise 6.9%. With British Columbia hitting an unofficial 15% rise in the price of goods, winter services is not immune.

Choosing a Snow Removal Company

When selecting a snow removal company, it’s essential to consider their reputation and experience, along with their insurance and liability coverage. To learn how to choose a winter service provider, please read our article on how to choose a snow removal company in Vancouver.

Conclusion

Even though Vancouver may be known for its mild climate, it’s still important to consider snow removal services during the winter months to limit your liability exposure and keep your property safe. By choosing a reputable winter service company, you can be sure that your property is safe and accessible during the colder months.

Request a quote today or call us at (604) 359-8895

Learn why you should choose Snow Queen Winter Management for your snow & ice management needs.

How Much Do De-icing Services Cost in Vancouver?

As occasionally referred to as The Los Angeles of Canada, Vancouver does in fact experience winter, and with winter comes snow & ice. Ice poses a massive risk for both residential strata and businesses. Ice on sidewalks and driveways can lead to slips and falls, and ice on roadways can cause vehicle accidents or block access. As a result, many Vancouver businesses choose to hire a professional winter service provider to perform ice management services. These companies, such as Snow Queen Winter Management specialize in salting and de-icing surfaces to reduce the risk that snow & ice pose. The safety of residents, employees, and customers should be a top priority, and ice management services provide an important layer of protection against slips and falls.

In this article, we will explain how to budget for de-icing services, including some of the factors that affect the cost and the average price of ice management services in Vancouver.

How much do you need to budget for ice management services?

While it may not seem like a necessity with Vancouver’s winters, when compared to the rest of Canada, snow removal & salting services are important for any property. Budgeting for these services can help you avoid a costly slip & fall lawsuit, but what should you budget?

When budgeting you should consider how many times the temperature may hit freezing or below. Based on a 5-year average, Vancouver experiences 45 days at which the temperature drops to zero degrees celsius or below. Not only should you consider standard or automatic de-icing services when budgeting for ice management, but snow events should be factored in. Every time snow removal is performed a de-icer must be applied.

What are some of the factors that affect the cost of ice management services?

The cost of ice management services can vary depending on a number of factors. One of the most important factors is the type of de-icer that is used. More expensive de-icers, such as calcium chloride, are more effective at lower temperatures and can help to prevent re-freezing. Another factor that can affect the cost of ice management services is the frequency of freezing and thawing cycles. Properties that are located in areas with frequent freeze-thaw cycles will require more frequent de-icing, which can add to the overall cost. Finally, the risk posed by a property can also affect the cost of ice management services. Retail properties with high foot or a property that may be at a high risk of a slip & fall accident, such as a medical clinic will require a more frequent and careful ice removal strategy, which can increase the cost. By understanding these various factors, property owners can get a better sense of what to expect when budgeting for ice management services.

What is the average price for de-icing services in Vancouver?

Prices for ice management services such as salting, or liquid brine can vary depending on the size of the property, which product is used, and the overall liability risk. In general, Vancouver snow removal companies charge an average base rate of $350 per application for their de-icing services.

Remember: There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the final price for ice management—it differs from property to property because of various factors. For example, a small residential condo complex might need an eco & pet-friendly deicer, which costs more than other options, whereas a large commercial parking lot may only require rock salt or liquid brine applications.

Should you hire an ice management company or do it yourself?

To protect yourself and your property, you should always hire a professional winter service provider for not only ice management services but for snow clearing as well.

First, and foremost you should consider your liability exposure. If you performed salting services yourself and a slip & fall were to occur on your property, would you have evidence that followed best practices to prevent this slip & fall from occurring?

Hiring a winter service provider like Snow Queen Winter Management offers you the assurance that they will follow industry best practices, and collect evidence on your behalf, and the best benefit of all is that you don’t have to wake up in the middle of the night.

Pet & environmentally friendly de-icing

If you looking for de-icing services with environmentally friendly salting or a custom-tailored ice management strategy, please request a quote today.