Snow Removal for Basement Apartments and Side Entrances

4 min read · Thames Valley Snow, London, Ontario

Why the side entrance is the hard part

Second units in London are often reached by a walkway along the side of the house, then a set of steps down to a lower door. That route has a few problems in winter. It is narrow, so it fills with drifting snow. It often runs between two houses, so it gets little sun and stays icy longer. Roof runoff and downspouts can drip onto it and refreeze overnight. And steps going down to a basement door can collect snow at the bottom with nowhere for it to go.

The driveway might be clear while the tenant's only way out is still buried. Planning for both entrances avoids that.

Decide who is responsible, in writing

Snow clearing is a common source of friction between owners and tenants. Whatever you agree, put it in the lease and be specific: which paths, which steps, which parking spots, and who handles salting. If the tenant is expected to shovel, think about what happens when they are away or unable to. Many owners find it simpler to include snow clearing in the rent and hire it out, so the responsibility is never in question.

This is general information, not legal advice. For your obligations as a landlord, check the Residential Tenancies Act and the City of London's property standards rules, or speak to a paralegal or lawyer.

What to include in a plan

• Driveway clearing for all the cars that park there, including tandem spots. Seasonal pricing depends on size: single or 1.5-car driveways are $650 to $725, double driveways $815, and 3-car, paver or stamped driveways $1,050, all plus HST.
• Walkway and steps from $150. A walk plus up to 6 steps is $175. Tell us about both entrances so the quote covers the side path and the lower steps.
• Seasonal salting at $175, including freezing rain and refreeze visits. For a shaded side path this is often the most useful add-on.
• Pet-safe de-icer at $120 if either household has a dog.

Parking for two households

More cars usually means more snow left around them. A crew can only clear what is open, so agree on where each car parks and when. If one household leaves very early, priority early-morning clearing ($125) places the property earlier in the route after overnight snow. The City windrow at the end of the driveway is cleared as part of the visit, which matters when two drivers are trying to get out.

Where does the snow go?

Side yards are tight. Snow cleared from the side path has to go somewhere, and it should not be piled against the house, over window wells, or on top of a basement entrance. Show your crew where piles can go and point out window wells, vent pipes and gas meters. A stake or reflective marker near hidden items helps everyone in a storm.

Ice at the bottom of the steps

Below-grade entrances often have a drain at the bottom of the stairwell. If it freezes or is covered by snow, meltwater pools and turns to ice right where people step off. Keep that drain clear in late fall, and check it after thaws. A downspout that empties onto the side path is worth redirecting before winter, because it can glaze the path every night that follows a sunny day.

Keeping both households informed

A timestamped photo after every visit shows when the driveway and walks were done. Owners who do not live on site can see that the work happened without driving over, and they have a simple record if a tenant raises a concern.

Getting a quote for a two-unit home

When you request a quote, mention the second unit, the side path, the number of steps at each entrance and where the cars park. The more complete the picture, the more accurate the fixed price. Seniors and front-line workers receive 5% off a seasonal contract. See walkway and steps, salting and ice control and snow removal for rental properties.

Every Thames Valley Snow quote is measured from City of London maps and aerial imagery, and you get a fixed price within 1 business day. Ask for a free quote, or call or text (548) 888-8702.