What's Included in Emergency Storm Response?

3 min read · Thames Valley Snow, London, Ontario

A major storm tests a snow removal contract more than routine winter weather ever will. Understanding what emergency storm response actually includes helps business owners know what to expect when conditions get severe.

Rolling or multiple passes during an active storm should be part of any legitimate emergency response plan. Waiting until a storm fully ends before starting service means hours of dangerous accumulation for a business that needs to stay accessible, so a contractor should be actively working the property throughout a major event, not just after.

Priority escalation is another key piece. Properties with critical access needs, like healthcare facilities or grocery stores, should see resources reallocated toward them during a severe storm, even if it means other properties experience longer waits than usual. A good contractor communicates this shift rather than leaving clients in the dark.

Communication during the storm itself matters as much as the physical work. Proactive updates about expected delays, current conditions, and revised timelines help business owners plan around the storm rather than being left guessing about when their property will be addressed.

Plan Before the Big One

The middle of a storm is the worst time to work out priorities. Before winter, agree with your contractor on a written order of work for your site: main entrances, fire routes and accessible parking first, then drive lanes and walkways, then the rest of the lot. Mark curbs, drains and islands before the ground freezes. Share who on your side can make decisions on storm days and how to reach them after hours.

Ice Is Part of the Storm

Many severe events in Southwestern Ontario include freezing rain, or a thaw followed by a hard freeze. Clearing snow does not make a walk safe if a glaze of ice forms underneath or on top. Check that your contract covers freezing rain and refreeze visits, and that ice control continues after the snow stops.

After the Storm

Large storms leave large piles. Piles that block sightlines, cover drains or sit uphill of walkways create problems for days afterward as they melt and refreeze. Walk the site after a major event and note anything that needs attention: refreezing spots, narrowed lanes, damaged curbs or signs. Keep the contractor's visit records with your own notes for the day.

How Our Service Works

Our service starts automatically for every snowfall of 5 cm or more, with return visits during long storms and a timestamped photo after every visit.

We price every commercial site individually and send the quote within 2 business days, and we do not publish commercial prices. Every visit comes with a timestamped photo. We carry $2,000,000 liability insurance, are WSIB registered and are a member of the London Property Management Association.

Tell Your Staff and Visitors

Part of storm response happens on your side. Decide in advance whether you will open late or close on severe days, and how staff and customers will be told. Post a notice on your website or social pages and update your Google Business Profile hours if you close. Keep a shovel and de-icer by the main door so staff can deal with a small icy patch between visits, and ask everyone to report slippery spots right away.

Emergency Storm Response FAQ

Will crews come back during a long storm?

Our service includes return visits in long storms. Ask any contractor how they handle snowfalls that last all day.

Is freezing rain covered?

Ice control should cover freezing rain and refreezes. Confirm this in writing before the season.

Want a storm plan in place before winter? Get a free quote or call or text (548) 888-8702. See commercial snow removal and churches and clinics.