What is included?
List machine-cleared and hand-cleared areas, entrances, sidewalks, hauling, and any separately authorized work.
FOR SASKATOON PROPERTY MANAGERS
Build a clearer
commercial snow plan.
Before comparing seasonal or one-time service, define the property, priority areas, access, storage, hauling, and communication expectations.
1 / MAP THE PROPERTY
Mark what is cleared—and where snow can go.
Use an aerial image or simple site plan. Mark parking areas, access lanes, loading zones, fire routes, waste enclosures, entrances, sidewalks, ramps, hydrants, drains, curbs, islands, and fragile edges. Show approved on-site storage areas and locations where piles would block visibility or parking.
2 / SET PRIORITIES
Describe the order that matters.
Identify business hours, resident access, deliveries, shift changes, and areas that cannot be blocked. A contractor can then discuss service timing, equipment access, hand work, and what happens when vehicles remain in the clearing area.
3 / DEFINE THE TRIGGER
Use precise contract language.
Clarify how a service visit is triggered, what measurement or weather event is used, which areas are included, how repeated snowfall is handled, and who can authorize additional work. Do not assume “snow removal” means the same scope in every proposal.
4 / PLAN STORAGE & HAULING
Know when piles become a site problem.
Decide whether snow can remain on the property and which spaces may be used. Discuss hauling before piles reduce parking, narrow sight lines, cover drainage points, or interfere with access. Hauling and off-site disposal should be identified separately when they are not part of the base service.
QUOTE BRIEF
Send one useful package.
- Property address and a marked site plan
- Areas for equipment clearing and hand work
- Business, delivery or resident access times
- Known hazards, drains, islands and fragile edges
- Approved snow-storage areas and hauling needs
- On-site contact and after-hours communication route
- Whether the request is seasonal or one-time
QUESTIONS TO RESOLVE
Before signing a snow agreement.
What happens during long storms?
Discuss ongoing access, repeat visits, parked vehicles, and the point at which piles need to be relocated.
How are site changes reported?
Confirm who communicates blocked areas, hidden hazards, new construction, or changes to snow-storage locations.
How will the property be reviewed?
A pre-season walk-through can align the site plan with actual curbs, drains, entrances, and equipment routes.