Winter Service Agreements for Central Ohio Commercial Properties

Snow & Ice Management Explained

Winter in Central Ohio brings unpredictable weather, and for property managers, snow and ice management is critical for safety and accessibility. A well-structured winter service agreement ensures your property remains clear, compliant, and safe for tenants and visitors. Here’s what you need to know.

View Winter Services

What Is a Winter Service Agreement?

A winter service agreement is a contract between a property manager and a snow and ice management provider that defines commercial snow removal services, service triggers, scope of work, billing options, and best practices for winter safety. These snow and ice management services help reduce liability, maintain property accessibility, and protect commercial properties from winter weather damage.

Here are key components of snow and ice management agreements.

1. Service Triggers

Service begins based on agreed snowfall thresholds:

Zero Tolerance: Immediate response for medical centers and high-priority sites.

1-Inch Trigger: Most common option for timely service and cost efficiency.

2-Inch Trigger: Budget-friendly but may appear delayed for tenants.

2. Service Areas

Agreements outline which areas will be cleared:

Drive Lanes: Primary routes for vehicles and emergency access.

Parking Spaces: Maintains capacity and prevents hazards.

Walkways & Sidewalks: High-priority for pedestrian safety.

Garages & Ramps: Special attention to prevent refreeze hazards.

3. Pre-Treatment Options

Prevent ice bonding and improve safety:

Bulk Rock Salt: Cost-effective for large paved areas.

Salt Brine: Liquid application before storms to reduce salt use.

Calcium Chloride Pellets: Ideal for extreme cold and high-traffic areas.

4. Equipment and Damage Control

From plow trucks and skid-steers to brine sprayers, EMI uses specialized equipment for efficiency and safety. Damage prevention includes curb staking, property condition documentation, and clear reporting processes.

5. Billing Options

Choose the structure that fits your budget:

Seasonal Flat Rate: Predictable costs for the entire winter.

Per Occurrence: Pay for each service event.

Time & Materials: Flexible billing based on actual usage.

Best Practices for Property Managers

Finalize agreements early to secure service.

Vet contractors for experience, certifications, and safety records.

Establish a communication plan and designate a “Snow Captain.”

Plan for equipment failures and post-season cleanup.

Why Choose EMI for Snow & Ice Management?

EMI is a SIMA-accredited provider with Certified Snow Professionals (CSP) and Advanced Snow Managers (ASM) on staff. Our fleet includes 150+ snow service vehicles and 200+ pieces of commercial equipment, supported by 24/7 dispatch and on-site brine production. We deliver reliability, safety, and peace of mind all winter long.

Ready to Secure Your Winter Service Agreement?

Don’t wait until the first snowfall. Partner with EMI for comprehensive snow and ice management that keeps your property safe and accessible. Contact us today to discuss your winter service agreement and ensure your property is prepared for the season.