First, be sure you get real snow down on company
It's important to do your homework before hiring someone to remove snow.
It's Monday morning and you're late for work.
You're late because you spent the last 15 minutes digging a trench through the Santa-size snowdrifts in your driveway.
Then, just when you thought you were home free and could hang up your shovel, your car got stuck half way to the street and you had to dig some more.
Before the next big storm hits, you vow you'll call a plow service.
But before you do, do your homework because not all snow removal services are created equal.
Although it might sound like a simple task to push snow around, snowplows can damage yards and sometimes snow removal contractors don't show up when you need them most because they're stuck in their driveways, too.
Key points
Here are a few tips for getting the most for your money:
UGet several estimates and don't assume the cheapest service will be the best. Prices can vary widely and are usually based on the layout of your property and the size of the area to be cleared. Also ask about additional charges. During big storms, some snow removal contractors charge by the inch. Others might offer a fixed price for the entire season regardless of the amount of snowfall.
UMake sure you are clear on what services you're receiving. Are you just having your driveway plowed, or are walks and steps also going to be cleared? Will the company clear your driveway only after the snowstorm or during the snowfall as well?
UAsk for references. Check with the Better Business Bureau for a business reliability report on the contractor you're planning to use.
UDon't settle an agreement over the telephone. Ask the contractor for a written agreement, and before you sign, ask who will be responsible for damages such as cracked drive-ways or broken fences.
UAsk the contractor if he or she is insured or bonded.
UFind out how you can terminate the agreement if necessary.
Source: The Better Business Bureau
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