Are you pondering how to take on the responsibility of snow removal if you own a rental property in an area with snowy winters? Snow removal for rental property owners is defined by a fairly extensive array of rules, which can be perplexing at times. Because of this, it’s important that you divide snow removal responsibilities in the appropriate sequence well in advance of the initial snowfall. However, who should be responsible for it – you or your tenant? This depends on several things, which we will go into detail on below.
Local Ordinance
In the beginning, familiarize yourself with your snow removal responsibilities by consulting your local ordinance. Local laws often mandate property owners to remove snow from nearby public sidewalks and driveways within a particular duration (usually 24 to 48 hours). However, this is not always the scenario. In other areas, local ordinances go beyond simply requiring snow removal. They may also specify where the removed snow can and cannot be piled up.
Some communities may require property owners to remove snow from fire hydrants, benches, or common places that are adjacent to their homes. Others may limit where you can pile the snow (putting snow in the road is against the law in many towns) or how high you can pile snow up along a walkway. Some laws might dictate the sort of road salt or other deicing materials you can use on your walkways and driveways.
Avoiding getting hit with fines for improper snow removal is vital, regardless of what the local ordinances say.
Property Type
When allocating snow removal responsibilities, who gets assigned the duty also depends on what type of rental property you possess. For instance, multi-family property owners are typically responsible for snow removal. Nevertheless, for single-family rental homes, most owners and landlords can assign the task of snow removal to the tenant.
If your tenant already handles yard maintenance and other simple responsibilities, this arrangement may work in several situations. You need to bear in mind that the local ordinances still apply, so you need to educate your tenant on correct snow removal practices to avoid breaking local laws.
Tenant Ability
Your tenant’s ability to perform snow removal duties effectively and on time is another vital aspect to take into account. If your tenant isn’t physically able to carry out such tasks or is considered a member of a protected class under the Americans with Disabilities Act, you may need to make other arrangements. While it is not technically against the law to make a disabled tenant perform snow removal, a lack of consideration for your tenant could gravely damage tenant relations. In certain situations, you may find the more ethical and profitable option to hire a professional property manager for your tenant or simply accomplish it personally if you prefer.
Lease Documents
The majority of owners of single-family rental properties ask their tenants to handle snow removal. If you want to proceed in a similar manner, you must incorporate clear language in your lease that illustrates your tenant’s responsibilities related to that task. Another ideal way is to include any pertinent information from local ordinances if your tenant must abide by specific regulations. In the event of a quarrel, clear lease documents can help your tenant understand their snow removal responsibilities and can be an invaluable resource.
On the other hand, if you plan to provide snow removal, illustrate that in the lease as well. Include expectations for that service, such as moving cars or refraining from parking on the street during snow removal service hours.
Hiring a property management company such as Real Property Management Trustworthy has numerous benefits, one of which is that we can aid you in finding the best way to handle weather-related maintenance at your rental property. Contact us or call 984-666-0912 today to obtain more information about our range of property management services in Bear Creek and its surrounding.
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