Snow Removal for Condominiums: Who's Responsible for What

Snow Removal Services

Condominium snow removal involves multiple parties and clear demarcation of responsibilities between the corporation, unit owners, and service contractors.

In most Ontario condominiums, the condominium corporation is responsible for snow removal on common elements: parking areas, main walkways, visitor parking, ramps, and fire routes. Unit owners are typically responsible for their own private entry steps or patios.

Winter Preparedness Tips

The declaration and by-laws define what constitutes a common element versus exclusive-use area. Before the winter season, distribute a clear notice to unit owners explaining where the corporation's snow removal begins and ends, to avoid complaints when private entry areas are not cleared.

Service level expectations should be included in the corporation's annual budget and disclosed to owners. If the contract includes a 2-hour response SLA, owners should know this so they can plan accordingly during active storm events.

D&D Snow Services Coverage

Accessible unit owners may require special consideration. Ground-floor units with accessible entry configurations may need more frequent clearing, and the corporation should ensure its contract covers these areas at the same priority level as main entrances.

Documenting incidents is essential for condo boards. If a slip-and-fall occurs on common elements, the corporation faces liability. D&D Snow Services maintains time-stamped service records that can be provided to insurers, legal counsel, or the condominium's property management company.