Hiring a service provider to clear or remove ice and snow from your facility is one of the key safety & financial decisions you’ll make in a given year. So how do you find a reliable service provider?
1. Be Proactive
Start your search for a service provider early – August or early September is ideal.
2. Be Selective
Create a plan to qualify service prospects. Use resources like the web and colleagues to research service providers. Consider creating a Request for Information (RFI) to further pre-qualify.
3. Build your RFP
Take time to identify your needs & create a Request for Proposal (RFP) including a Scope of Work that outlines what the property should look like once service is conducted.
4. Align with Best Practices
Ensure that a professional company is hired to do the work. Use a best practices checklist to help assess potential providers and compare apples to apples.
5. Seek Trust
The risk of service failure during a storm is simply too high. Hire the provider that seeks to share liability, provide on-time service, and proactively address concerns. Hire contractors who are dedicated to their profession.
Communication is Key.. Before you sign any agreement, ensure that:
- Contract language provides equitable risk based on defined service levels.
- Priority areas of the site are defined (aka handicap parking, loading docks, etc.).
- Clarity exists as to when services will start during an event.
- Documentation and billing requirements are agreed upon.
Find out how we do snow & ice here.
Information provided by the Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA).
