scope of work
What do you need done?
the guide
Agree on the terms before the first storm
Residential plowing is sold per visit, per storm or for the season. The contract should name the trigger depth that sends the plow out, whether sidewalks and steps are included, how soon after snowfall they arrive, and whether salting is extra.
What affects the price
Driveway length and width, the trigger depth, a seasonal versus per-visit agreement, sidewalks and steps, salting or de-icing, response-time commitments, and how hard the snow is to push or pile.
Sidewalks are your responsibility
Many municipalities, Philadelphia among them, require property owners to clear public sidewalks within a set number of hours after snow stops, and many prohibit pushing snow into the street. Check your municipal ordinance.
Rules and paperwork in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide license for this trade. Some municipalities register or license it locally, which is one reason to confirm requirements with your own municipality.
Sources: Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry. Rules change — confirm current requirements with the agency and with your municipality.
Questions to ask before you hire
- What depth of snow triggers a visit?
- Are sidewalks, steps and salting included?
- Who pays if the plow damages my lawn, curb or driveway?
- What is your Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor registration number?
Frequently asked questions
When do I have to clear my sidewalk in my town?
That is set by local ordinance. Many municipalities require sidewalks to be cleared within hours of the end of a snowfall; check your municipal code for the exact deadline.
Will rock salt damage my driveway?
Salt can scale and pit concrete, especially concrete less than a year or two old. Use sand for traction on new concrete and ask the contractor about gentler de-icers near plantings and pavers.
Should I have snow removed from my roof?
Usually only when it is unusually deep or ice dams are forming. Removal should be done with a roof rake from the ground or by a crew that does not chip ice off shingles.
the crew
Verified snow removal contractors
We are still onboarding verified snow removal contractors. You can submit a request and we will tell you honestly if we cannot match it — your details are never shared unless a verified contractor is available.