If you manage a commercial property in St. Louis, snow isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s a liability. From icy walkways to blocked parking lots, winter weather can impact customer safety, employee access, and day-to-day operations.
That’s why commercial snow removal contracts are more than just a “nice to have.” They’re a winter survival plan.
But not all contracts are created equal. Let’s walk through the most common types, how they work, and which one might be right for your property.
1. Per Push Contracts
Think of this as pay-as-you-go snow removal. You only pay when there’s a snowfall and a plow shows up.
Best for:
- Properties with tight budgets
- Years when snowfall is light
- Smaller lots or low-traffic businesses
Pros:
- You’re only charged when work is done
- Great for low-snow seasons
Cons:
- Hard to budget for heavy winters
- May not be prioritized during big storms
2. Seasonal Contracts
With a seasonal contract, you pay a flat rate that covers snow removal for the entire winter — no matter how many storms hit.
Best for:
- Large commercial lots
- High-traffic properties that can’t afford delays
- Those who want predictable budgeting
Pros:
- Fixed cost all season
- You’re usually top priority after each snowfall
Cons:
- If it barely snows, you may overpay
- Some contracts have snow depth limits (read the fine print)
3. Per Inch Contracts
This pricing model charges based on snowfall depth. More snow = higher cost.
Best for:
- Property managers who want flexible costs but more structure than per push
- Areas with frequent but varied snowfall
Pros:
- Scales with the severity of storms
- Good balance between per push and seasonal
Cons:
- Can be hard to track if snowfall measurements are inconsistent
- May still spike costs in heavy snow years
4. Time and Materials Contracts
This one is simple: you’re billed for the exact hours worked and materials used (like salt, de-icer, or labor hours).
Best for:
- Complex properties with varied terrain
- Emergency or one-off jobs
- Those who want itemized transparency
Pros:
- You pay exactly for what was done
- Works well for properties with unique needs
Cons:
- Budgeting can be tricky
- Delays or longer storms can rack up high costs
Which Commercial Snow Removal Contract is Right for You?
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Contract Type | Predictable Cost | Good for Heavy Snow | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per Push | ❌ | ❌ | Small lots, low-use properties |
| Seasonal | ✅ | ✅ | Busy properties, no downtime |
| Per Inch | ⚠️ | ✅ | Variable winters, medium risk |
| Time & Materials | ❌ | ⚠️ | Unique layouts, emergency work |
The right fit depends on your property size, risk level, snow tolerance, and budget flexibility.
Why Work With a Local Team?
National chains don’t always understand the urgency of a St. Louis winter storm. At Emerald Valley Outdoor, we live here. We work here. We know how fast conditions can change — and we’re ready to handle them before your lot turns into a skating rink.
We offer multiple commercial snow removal contract options to fit your property and your peace of mind.
Want to see which contract works best for you? Check out our snow removal services in St. Louis and request a custom quote today.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right snow removal contract isn’t just about pricing — it’s about preparation. The best contract is the one that keeps your business safe, your parking lot clear, and your stress levels low all winter long.
If you’re unsure which route to take, let’s talk. We’ll help you compare options and build a snow plan that fits your property and your priorities.
