How do I hire a professional to shovel and remove snow?
Look for pros that specialize in snow plow and removal services. Many local landscapers also may offer snow removal services in winter.
When looking for a professional for snow removal:
Verify their license and insurance: Look for snow removal pros who carry liability insurance that covers you and your property in case of accidents or damage. Drivers of large snow plows and dump trucks may also need to carry commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). Requirements depend on your local area so be sure to do your research.
Get several estimates: Estimates should include the amount of surface area to be cleared, including walkways, steps and driveways. You should see a detailed accounting of the cost per hour, per linear foot or per square foot. Ensure estimates also include the cost for salt or other treatments to melt snow and ice.
Read their reviews: Look for reviews that mention inconsistent service or lack of communication. While it's not uncommon to have to wait for snow removal services in the wake of major snowstorms, a professional should let customers know what to expect.
Ask important questions: Ask what equipment they'll use to clear snow around your property so you can make sure they're prepared — and find out how long it typically takes to remove snow after an average snowstorm.
For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page.
How much does it cost to hire a snow removal service?
The national average cost of snow removal services ranges from around $90 to $217,* according to Thumbtack data.
There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:
Treatments: Expect to pay more if you need salt or other treatments.
Scope: If you have a longer driveway or lots of walkways to shovel, you might pay more.
Snow depth: It'll likely cost more to remove deep snow as opposed to just a couple of inches.
Urgency: Some pros may charge a premium if you need service urgently after a snowstorm, particularly after big storms.
Here are some ways you might be able to save on this project:
Skip treatments: Ask if you can apply your own salt after they handle plowing and shoveling.
Bundle with neighbors: Some pros may offer package deals, handling snow removal for multiple homes at once instead of coming out for just one property.
Handle small jobs yourself: You may not be able to shovel your entire driveway, but you can save some money by shoveling a porch or sidewalk yourself.
*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.
What is the difference between snow plowing and snow removal?
Snow plowing and snow removal are two different services.
Snow plowing typically involves:
Snow being pushed to the side to make a single portion of a driving or walking surface safer.
A specialized vehicle — usually a snowplow truck with a plow blade.
Repeat services to be effective during a storm or storm series.
Snow removal, on the other hand, involves:
Completely clearing the snow from an area down to the ground beneath
Often starting with plowing to move the snow aside, followed by additional steps for full removal.
Using de-icers and similar treatments to melt ice and completely remove stubborn snow.
Hauling the snow away instead of pushing it to the side.
Is snow removal considered a landscaping job?
Some landscaping companies may provide snow removal services during the colder months. In fact, many may use the same tools and vehicles for snow that they use for landscaping.
There are many benefits to hiring your regular landscaper for snow removal. If a landscaper already maintains your property, they’re likely familiar with your landscaping and less likely to damage plants or hardscaping. They also know where your drains are located, so they can push snow to a spot where it won't make a slushy mess when it melts.
If your landscaper doesn’t offer snow removal services, consider hiring a snow removal pro.
What are the benefits of hiring someone to plow and remove snow?
Some of the biggest benefits of hiring a professional snow removal service include:
Protecting property: Heavy snow can put your property at risk of damage, especially in regions that receive a lot of snow and ice in the winter. Some pros even offer roof snow removal, which can help prevent leaks, ice dams and major roof damage.
Improving safety: Snow that melts and re-freezes can be dangerous to you and your neighbors. Plowing and removing helps keep you safe from slips and falls.
Saving time: Shoveling is time-consuming and physically demanding. Hiring a pro gives you one less thing to worry about.
Scheduling: An overnight snow storm can mean having to wake up hours earlier than usual to get to work on time. Hiring someone for snow removal can help you maintain your normal schedule.
