Winter storms don’t just cover your property in snow and ice — they create liability risks that can cost your business far more than a seasonal maintenance contract. Slip-and-fall accidents, workers’ compensation claims, and ADA compliance issues are some of the biggest threats property managers face every winter.
Hiring a professional commercial snow removal partner isn’t just about clearing snow. It’s about protecting people, reducing liability, and safeguarding your reputation.
Slip-and-Fall Accidents: The Most Common (and Costly) Risk
Slip-and-fall injuries are the number one liability issue caused by winter weather. According to the CDC, more than one million Americans suffer a slip-and-fall injury each year, and many of those happen in parking lots and on sidewalks.
For property managers, the financial risk is significant:
- Average settlements range from $20,000 to $40,000 — with more serious cases climbing into six figures.
- Legal defense costs and insurance deductibles are additional burdens on top of settlements.
- Repeat claims can lead to higher insurance premiums, putting long-term strain on your budget.
Beyond the financial hit, slip-and-fall incidents damage trust. Tenants, customers, and employees may question whether your property is truly safe. A commercial snow removal partner dramatically reduces that risk by keeping surfaces clear and treated at all times, so accidents are less likely to occur in the first place.
Workers’ Compensation Claims Add Up Quickly
Winter hazards don’t just affect visitors. Employees are also at risk every time they step onto a slippery parking lot or walkway. When they’re injured on your property, the result is often a workers’ compensation claim.
Here’s what that means for you as a property manager:
- Even a minor injury can cost thousands in medical expenses and wage replacement.
- Claims can increase your workers’ compensation premiums for years.
- Lost productivity affects your tenants’ businesses, which may cause them to pressure you for better service or even reconsider their lease.
Professional snow removal ensures loading docks, entrances, and sidewalks are safe before employees arrive, protecting your tenants’ workforce and your bottom line.
ADA Compliance Isn’t Optional
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires commercial properties to maintain safe, accessible routes for individuals with mobility challenges. That includes parking lots, curb cuts, ramps, and walkways. When snow and ice block or compromise those areas, your property can fall out of compliance.
Consequences include:
- Fines and penalties from non-compliance.
- Costly lawsuits from individuals who cannot safely access your property.
- Reputation damage, especially for healthcare, education, and retail properties where accessibility is essential.
Professional snow removal crews are trained to prioritize ADA routes during and after a storm. By proactively clearing and salting these areas, you protect your visitors, stay compliant, and avoid costly penalties.
Why Professional Snow Removal Is the Smarter Investment
When you add up the costs of slip-and-fall claims, workers’ compensation cases, and ADA violations, the numbers quickly outweigh the price of proactive commercial snow removal. Choosing a professional partner is less about expense and more about prevention, predictability, and peace of mind.
- You gain predictable service and budgeting instead of unpredictable emergency costs.
- You reduce liability by keeping high-risk areas safe at all times.
- You show tenants, employees, and customers that their safety is a priority.
Earth Development: Protecting Your Property From Liability
At Earth Development, we understand what’s at stake. Our trained crews monitor weather conditions around the clock, pre-treat before storms, and respond immediately to keep your property clear, safe, and compliant.
That means fewer accidents, fewer claims, and greater confidence that your business is protected from the hidden costs of winter.
If you’re ready for a commercial snow removal partner that reduces liability and keeps your property safe, contact Earth Development today.
References
- Calculate My Case. Slip and Fall Settlement Amounts. Retrieved from: calculatemycase.com
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fall Injury Data. Retrieved from: cdc.gov