We just had our first snowfall, and you know there is more winter weather on its way. Winter has arrived, there is no denying it anymore. If you are needing snow and ice removal for your business or your home, make sure to contact us to get on our list!
For many people, Alaska and snow go hand in hand. Did you know the average snowfall here each winter is over 75 inches!
Snow and ice can create slippery pathways and increase our risk of falling. Winter weather can lead to accidents such as slip and fall, auto accidents, and other snow-related accidents.
Slips, trips, and falls happen year-round, of course, but winter ice and snow create a more hazardous environment that increases the risk of personal, customer, or employee-related injuries. When it comes to adverse winter weather conditions, it is better to be proactive as opposed to reactive.
As a business owner, it is vital for an active effort to be made to prevent the build-up of ice on walkways and sidewalks. It is also important to assure your sidewalks, stairs, and parking lots are clear from ice and snow. Places like parking areas and outside break areas utilized by employees or customers in need of a place outside to smoke are commonly overlooked but frequently used.
Similarly, as a homeowner, your driveway area should be kept safe as well. Many winter slips and fall accidents occur when someone is trying to get from their car to your doorstep.
Ice and snow build-up are not only a slip and fall hazard; they are a driving hazard as well. These conditions can cause vehicles to slip when driving on an icy driveway, resulting in car accidents. The heavy snowfall during an Alaskan winter storm may cause our cars to get covered under heaps of snow or snow to fall off our roof and buildup on sidewalks and driveways. Without the proper equipment, snow and ice can be hard to remove, putting the safety of your family, guests, customers, or employees at risk.
Why shovel yourself? When you consider hiring the services of a professional snow removal company, it is vital to do your research and ask a few fundamental questions. This way, when the next storm comes, you are not surprised by what they do and do not provide for services. Here are a few helpful tips to help you find the right company.
When can they get here?
Your first concern is, most likely, how quickly can the company get to your property after it snows. What’s the company’s turnaround time? What’s the soonest they can get to work after it snows?
Quick, efficient, and thorough snow removal is essential to implementing smart business practices in the winter, especially if you happen to own a commercial property. You’re responsible for ensuring the safety of everyone who uses your property and maintaining the exterior appeal of it to continue attracting potential customers.
What Services are Provided?
Before you sign that contract, remember that not all snow removal companies provide the same menu of services. Make sure to ask what they will and won’t do for your property after a snowstorm and what is and is not included in the price they are providing. In addition to the parking lots, do they clear sidewalks and entrances? Do they spray deicers? Do they haul any snow? What do they do if you do not have the space to put large amounts of snow? Ask questions and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is provided, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Do They Carry Insurance?
Even though the snow removal business’s employees should have proper training on how to work in treacherous weather, you want to make sure the company is adequately insured in the case of an accident. Accidents come in all shapes and sizes but could include damage to your business or personal property or damage to customer property.
If you choose to work with someone who merely hooks up a plow to their truck, keep in mind that they may not be correctly insured. Working with someone who is not insured puts you at risk, so make sure they provide you with their proof of insurance, which should include liability coverage and workers’ compensation.
When choosing a snow removal company, you need to determine if their experience, reliability, and capability match your needs. To determine this, ask questions.
Be Happy Property Services will be happy to speak with you and put your mind at ease.
We have the experience you need to keep your property safe for you and your family, and visitors or customers this winter. Having a knowledgeable snow removal contractor at your side now will bring you peace of mind when the next storm arrives.
Contact Be Happy Property Services today to find out how our services will work for you.
Be Happy Property Services provides residential and commercial properties in Anchorage and our surrounding areas with dependable, licensed, insured, and bonded services. One call, we do it all! 907-336-7434.