Answering Snow Plowing FAQ
Q : Are site checks necessary?
A : At the start of the winter season before any snowfall I take the time to ride around to all of our commercial sites and take videos. Not only am I checking the sites with my very own eyes, but I also have a video for reference. I perform site checks for several reasons. Primarily, I want to ensure we have documentation of the condition of the site prior to any work being completed. If the property owner raises any issues we can definitively say whether it was there prior to the start of the season. Another reason we take videos is because we want to point out all the abnormalities - smashed curbs, damaged manhole covers, downed wires, locations of street lamps, conditions of the loading docks and so on.
As the season progresses, we also complete site checks after a storm and at the end of the season. After every storm when we go around doing our final clean up we check the sites to ensure no damage was done during the last storm. We also want to ensure that the property is safe and ready to be open for business.
When you are in the snow removal business, your primary job isn’t to manage the snow, it’s to manage the risk. Your goal is to ensure the site is safe. Doing pre and post site checks eliminates your need to run from one emergency to the next. Site checks are important and they help to cover your liability, so don’t skip them in hopes to save some time.
Q : Do you need a snow log?
A : With any service based business it’s important to have proper documentation. With anything these days it’s easy to get sued at the drop of a hat. Having a snow log is one way to prepare yourself if you ever find yourself in that circumstance.
A snow log may also be a nice reference point when it comes to planning for future seasons and evaluating your workload.
Q : Are subcontractor agreements really necessary?
A : Yes!
The easiest way to lose friends in this industry is by not having good contracts. We all hope for the best when it comes to handshake deals, but more often than not something happens and you find yourself losing a friend and losing business. Subcontractor agreements cover everyone and sets clear expectations. They ensure your subcontractors have insurance and are conducting business on the up and up.
Q : Do I need a route sheet?
A : The answer to this one varies based on the number of plowing accounts you have. If you have a small plowing business with only one truck then you may not need a route sheet. If you are a bit larger and are running two trucks like myself, you may want to consider one.
In each of our trucks we have a laminated route sheet and a dry erase marker. This allows my crew to mark things off as they go and make notes if needed.
We also have a shared photo album where we store site map photos. For each of the site maps I have marked where to push snow. This is a great system that really works for us because it allows us to all be on the same page. If a crew member has been out for a period of time, or if they are new to the team and didn't have a chance to see the sites without snow, they can reference the marked photo to where they should be pushing the snow. I also share the site check videos with my crew so they have a reference point of the condition of the site. They can also see where any abnormalities or obstacles may be.
