Every Chicago property owner faces this decision when winter approaches: contract with a professional snow removal company or hire individual shovelers? While both options can work, each comes with distinct advantages and considerations. Let's break down what you need to know to make the right choice for your property.
Professional Snow Removal Companies
Professional services offer a turnkey solution to winter property maintenance. They show up with their own equipment, handle ice management, and work according to contracted schedules. When that big storm hits at 3 AM, these companies prioritize their contracted clients – meaning your property stays accessible while others are still buried in snow.
You get what you pay for – seasonal contracts typically range from $3,000-$10,000, depending on your property size and service level. Yes, it's a big check to write in the fall, but it includes equipment, labor, and materials. Most companies want contracts signed and paid by early fall, which requires planning ahead but guarantees service when you need it most.
Beyond just moving snow, professional services handle the details that keep you sleeping soundly: insurance coverage, equipment maintenance, guaranteed response times, and documented service records. For larger properties, this peace of mind often justifies the higher cost.
Individual Snow Shovelers
Working with individual shovelers can feel more personal and flexible. Many property owners find reliable help through tenant recommendations or neighborhood connections. They typically charge $25-50 per hour or $50-100 per clearing for an average property. While you might pay more per visit than a seasonal contract's average, you're only paying when the snow actually falls.
Here's the catch – managing individual shovelers means more work for you. You'll need to think about equipment, create backup plans, figure out liability coverage, and make sure the work meets your standards. And when that massive storm hits, your reliable shoveler might be stretched thin with other commitments.
Making the Smart Choice
Your property's size and layout will largely point you toward the right choice. If you're managing a larger building with parking lots and multiple entrances, professional services usually make sense. Running a smaller property? Individual shovelers might be your sweet spot, especially if you've got solid backup options.
Some savvy property owners take a hybrid approach. They'll use professional services for the heavy lifting – parking lots and main walkways – while keeping individual shovelers on call for detail work or as a backup. It's about finding the right balance for your property and peace of mind.
The Real Cost Breakdown
Let's talk numbers. While individual shovelers cost less upfront, consider the whole picture. A professional service might charge $5,000 for the season, but that includes guaranteed service, insurance coverage, and fewer headaches.
Individual shovelers at $75-$150 per visit seems cheaper, but factor in the need for multiple reliable workers and backup plans for when equipment fails, or someone calls in sick.
Here's something else to keep in mind: poor snow removal can lead to expensive slip-and-fall incidents or property damage. Sometimes, the cheapest option ends up costing more in the long run.
The Bottom Line
Whether you go with professionals or build a team of individual shovelers, get your snow removal plan locked down before the first flake falls. Your tenants count on clear walkways and accessible parking, regardless of who's holding the shovel. And you'll sleep better knowing you've got a solid plan in place for whatever winter throws your way.
