What's Included in a Commercial Snow and Ice Management Plan?

3 min read · Thames Valley Snow, London, Ontario

A commercial snow and ice management plan is more than a plow schedule. It is a written agreement that spells out exactly what happens before, during, and after every winter storm, so there is no guesswork for either side when the forecast turns bad.

A solid plan starts with trigger depths, the snowfall amount that automatically calls out plowing crews without a phone call needed. It also covers de-icing timing, including pre-storm applications to stop bonding and follow-up treatments as temperatures shift through the day. Response time commitments are spelled out too, so a property manager knows whether crews arrive within two hours of the trigger being hit or by a set time each morning.

Beyond the storm response itself, a full plan addresses the details that get properties into trouble when they are missing. That includes snow storage locations that do not block sightlines or fire lanes, sidewalk and entrance clearing separate from the parking lot schedule, and a communication protocol so staff know who to call and what response to expect during an active storm.

Documentation matters just as much as the work. A good plan includes photo logs of completed service, timestamps for each visit, and a clear record of salt or brine applied. That paper trail protects the property owner if a slip-and-fall claim ever comes up months later.

The Core Pieces Every Plan Should Spell Out

Before you sign, read the plan line by line and make sure each of these is written down rather than implied: the snowfall depth that triggers a visit, which surfaces are covered (lot, drive aisles, entrances, sidewalks, ramps), whether salting is included or billed separately, where plowed snow will be piled, and how each visit is recorded. If one of these is missing, it is usually the one that causes an argument in February.

Trigger Depth and Return Visits

Our standard trigger is 5 cm. Once that much snow falls, a visit happens automatically with no phone call needed. For a commercial site, also ask what happens during a long storm: does the crew come back for a cleanup pass after the snow stops, and is that included in the price or billed per visit? Knowing this ahead of time keeps your budget predictable.

Salting and Ice Control

Ice is often a bigger risk than snow, especially on entrances and sidewalks where people walk. A good plan says which areas get salted, whether freezing rain and refreeze visits are covered, and whether pet-safe or concrete-safe products are needed near doors or new concrete. Seasonal salting with us covers freezing rain and refreeze visits.

Records That Protect You

Every visit we make is logged with timestamped photos. If a slip-and-fall claim comes in months later, those photos show when the property was cleared and treated. Ask any contractor you are considering exactly what records they keep and how you can get them. We also carry $2,000,000 in liability insurance and WSIB coverage, and a certificate of insurance is available on request.

How Commercial Pricing Works

Commercial sites are priced per site, because every lot is different: size, layout, islands, loading areas and how much room there is to pile snow all change the work. Quotes are built from City maps and aerial imagery and are delivered within 2 business days, and edges, curbs and drains are marked before the season starts so nothing gets damaged under the snow.

FAQ

Do I need a written plan for a small commercial lot?

Yes. Even a small lot benefits from a written trigger depth, a salting schedule and visit records. It avoids confusion and gives you documentation if anyone is hurt on the property.

Is salting included in a commercial contract?

It depends on the contract. Ask for salting to be listed as its own line so you know exactly what is covered, including freezing rain and refreeze visits.

Want a fixed price for your property? Request a free quote or call or text (548) 888-8702. You can also read about residential snow removal and commercial snow removal.