If you're a Calgary condo board member responsible for building maintenance decisions, you know that efficient winter snow removal is essential for ensuring the safety and satisfaction of residents. To secure the best services and pricing for winter snow and ice clearing, it's crucial to plan ahead and follow some key practices.
Starting in July, Key Condo recommends seeking out quotes from groundskeeping companies for the upcoming winter season. At this time of year, most contractors have not yet reached their full winter capacity, making it ideal for negotiating competitive prices. By obtaining quotes several months in advance, condo corporations can secure cheaper pricing for the required winter scope.
When requesting quotes, it's important to ask for pricing on services that are essential and expected to be needed, such as snow removal from sidewalks and roadways. Additionally, consider including a request for pricing for work charged on a per-trip basis, such as roadway scraping or snow hauling off-site. Getting these prices in writing prior to the winter season ensures you lock in rates and avoid potential price hikes if you wait until services are urgently required.
Safety is of paramount importance for organisations that have a duty of care under the Occupiers' Liability Act, especially during icy conditions. To reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents, Key Condo recommends condo corporations install seasonal pickle mix boxes at convenient locations for residents to access. This proactive measure empowers residents to apply pickle mix when needed, promoting a safer environment for everyone.
Another essential aspect of winter groundskeeping is ensuring safe walking paths from common sidewalks to each residents' front door. It's strongly advised not to allow any unit owners to opt-out of snow clearing services; as, in the unfortunate event of a slip and fall lawsuit, the condo corporation, not the individual unit owner, would be responsible for responding to a lawsuit.
While obtaining winter groundskeeping quotes, don't forget about summer groundskeeping! Many condo corporations opt for one-year contracts covering both winter and summer services, streamlining the process and potentially securing better rates. Key Condo suggests initially signing a one-year contract with a new groundskeeping company and then transitioning to a two- or three-year contract if the services meet the board's expectations. Ensure your contract includes a 30-days’ notice of cancellation clause to maintain flexibility if the contractor's service quality doesn't meet the board's standards.
By following these practical tips, Alberta condo board members can optimize their winter groundskeeping efforts, ensuring a safe and pleasant environment for residents throughout the colder months. Proactive planning, careful consideration of services, and a long-term contract strategy can go a long way in securing reliable and cost-effective winter maintenance services.
Download a sample groundskeeping scope request that Key Condo uses for the majority of our townhouses:
All important points Dana. Getting advance quotes for potential extras ie: snow hauling off site, deicer use, sanding, and roadway grading is essential.
Ron H.