What Should You Look for in a Snow Removal Quote?

3 min read · Thames Valley Snow, London, Ontario

A snow removal quote can look simple on the surface, but London, Ontario homeowners who take a closer look before signing tend to avoid surprises later in the season. A few key details separate a solid quote from a vague one.

First, check for the trigger depth, the amount of snowfall that automatically brings out a crew. This should be stated as a specific number, not a vague phrase like "when it snows a lot." Without a clear trigger depth, you have no way to know when service actually kicks in.

Second, look for exactly what's included: driveway only, or driveway plus sidewalks, salting, and de-icing. Ask directly whether extras cost more, and get that in writing rather than assuming.

Third, ask about the season length and any minimum or cap on visits. Some quotes cover a fixed date range, like November 15 to April 15, while others are open-ended until snow stops for the year. This affects what you're actually paying for.

Finally, confirm insurance and how the company handles missed visits, damage claims, or cancellations. A reputable company will answer these questions clearly without hesitation.

Compare Quotes on the Same Terms

Two quotes can look hundreds of dollars apart until you line them up. Put each one side by side and check the same five things: the trigger depth, the season dates, what surfaces are covered, which add-ons are extra, and how payment works. A lower price that only starts at 10 cm, ends in mid-March, or leaves out the City windrow at the end of your driveway is not really cheaper. It just moves the work back to you on the days you can least afford it.

Ask how the company proves a visit happened. Some contractors simply say the work was done. Others send a timestamped photo after each visit, which gives you a record if a neighbour, landlord or insurer ever asks.

Questions Worth Asking Before You Sign

• Does the crew come automatically, or do I have to call?
• Will you come back during a long storm, or is it one visit per snowfall?
• Is the City windrow cleared after the plow passes?
• Are walkways, steps and salting included or priced separately?
• How much is the deposit, and when is the balance due?
• Can you show proof of liability insurance and WSIB registration?

What Our Quotes Include

Our seasonal plans run December 1 to March 31 and start automatically for every snowfall of 5 cm or more, with return visits in long storms and the City windrow cleared. You get a timestamped photo after every visit, and edges, steps and drains are marked before the season. Prices are + HST: single or 1.5-car driveways $650 to $725, doubles $815, and 3-car, paver or stamped driveways $1,050. Add-ons are listed separately so you only pay for what you use: walkway and steps from $150, seasonal salt $175, pet-safe de-icer $120 and priority early-morning clearing $125. A 30% deposit holds your spot and the balance is due before December 1.

We build each quote from City of London maps and aerial imagery and send it within 1 business day. We carry $2,000,000 liability insurance, are WSIB registered and are a member of the London Property Management Association.

Snow Removal Quote FAQ

Why do quotes differ so much between companies?

Usually because they cover different things. Trigger depth, season length, windrow clearing and add-ons all change the real cost, so compare line by line.

Do I need a site visit to get a price?

Not with us. We measure your driveway using City of London maps and aerial imagery and email the quote within 1 business day.

Ready to compare? Get a free quote or call or text (548) 888-8702. You can also see our full snow removal prices and how it works.