When the first snowflakes fall and the snow-covered pavements crunch underfoot, few people think about removing the snow. But this is one of the responsibilities of the property owners, managers or tenants in general. Snow should not be left on the pavements.
Cities and counties must ensure that streets and sidewalks are safe in the winter. However, for economic reasons, many municipalities place the responsibility for street clearing on landlords. They are responsible for keeping the sidewalks on their property clean and ventilated, otherwise it is the responsibility of the tenants.
1. Landlords Can Leave The Clearing Service To Their Tenants
Landlords can leave winter maintenance to their tenants. The tenants can also check that tenants are fulfilling their obligations. If there are several tenants, it is a good idea to include a notice stating which tenant is responsible for snow clearance on which day. However, it is unacceptable to impose snow removal obligations only on certain tenants, for example, on the first floor. If the tenants does not have time to shovel snow, the tenants should always take on this task, regardless of whether he is on holiday or has to go to work early. However, elderly people do not have to take part in winter maintenance.
2. Clearing Can Be Taken Over By A Snow Removal Service
If the landlord has a contract with a winter maintenance company, the costs can be passed on to the tenants. However, care must be taken to ensure that maintenance services are carried out on time and regularly.
3. Make Sure That Snow Removal Services Are Carried Out At The Right Time
The period of time during which the sidewalk in front of the house must be cleared of snow is defined separately in each municipality’s bylaws. In general, sidewalks should be cleared 7:00 am and 8:00 pm. On Sunday and public holidays, you can stay in bed for an hour before getting out your snow shovel. If the first snow fall overnight, simply remove them the next morning. If it snows during the day, remove the snow as soon as it stops snowing. It it continues to snow, you don’t need to go out in the cold.
4. Keep Part Of The Large Sidewalks Clear
If the snow persists, you will need to make an effort. Unfortunately, clearing a narrow street is not enough. Two people need to move freely. The width in feet is between 1 and 5 feet of clear path. Otherwise, snow must not be pushed onto the road. Manhole covers also must be kept free.
5. Clearing The Entrance Door Is Not Sufficient
It is not only the paths to the entrance and the mailbox that need to be cleared. Garbage cans must be accessible without slipping and underground parking must be secured. However, if it is a private driveway used primarily as a convenience or detour, it does not need to be cleaned or snow plowed. If it is slippery, it should be removed immediately.
6. Roofs Must Also Be Secured
Large ice drops on roofs may look ice, but they can be dangerous. So it’s a good idea to remember to protect your roof from snow and frost damage. The exact choice depends on the general snow conditions in the area, the nature of the building, and the type and amount of traffic.
7. Granulated Salt Is Generally Prohibited
Use environmentally friendly paving materials to avoid ice and snow. For example, sand or gravel is suitable. Road salt is generally only allowed in particularly dangerous areas, such as stairs or steep slopes. Some municipalities also allow the addition of salt of black ice.
8. Accidents Can Cause Damage, Pain And Suffering
If someone falls on slippery or uneven ground, they can claim compensation for pain and suffering. Homeowners can protect themselves against such claims with liability insurance. The same applies to tenants who have to take care of winter maintenance. Landlords can protect themselves with landlord and tenant liability insurance.
