If you own a rental property in a region with snowy winters, you may be wondering how to handle the responsibility of snow removal. The regulations governing snow removal for rental property owners are notably varied and sometimes complex. As a result, it’s critical to designate snow removal responsibilities well prior to the onset of snowfall. Who should be responsible for it – you or your tenant? This depends on multiple factors, which we shall discuss in further detail below.
Local Ordinance
Initially, visit your local ordinance to determine your snow removal responsibilities. In numerous but not all locations, local laws need property owners to remove snow from nearby public sidewalks and driveways within a specific time frame (usually 24 to 48 hours). Yet, in some places, local ordinances go beyond simply requiring snow removal. They may also designate where the removed snow can and cannot be piled up.
Certain cities may require property owners to remove snow from fire hydrants, benches, or communal spots near their property. Others may limit where you can pile the snow (hurling snow on the road is against the law in several towns) or how tall you can pile snow up along a walkway. Certain individuals may impose limitations on the sorts of road salt or other deicing materials that can be used on walkways and driveways.
Regardless of the local ordinances, avoiding getting hit with fines for improper snow removal is crucial.
Property Type
When it comes to snow removal responsibilities, who receives the task is contingent upon what type of rental property you have. For example, multi-family property owners are frequently responsible for snow removal. However, for single-family rental homes, most owners and landlords can hand over the task of snow removal to the tenant.
This arrangement might be advantageous in several scenarios, especially if your tenant already handles yard maintenance and other key duties. Yet, it’s critical to recognize that the local ordinances still apply; therefore, you should educate your tenant on correct snow removal practices to avoid breaking local laws.
Tenant Ability
Another essential factor to consider is your tenant’s ability to perform snow removal activities effectively and punctually. If your tenant isn’t physically able to perform such obligations or is a member of a protected class under the Americans with Disabilities Act, you may need to make other arrangements. Although it is not explicitly unlawful to mandate a disabled tenant to carry out snow removal, a lack of consideration for your tenant could greatly damage tenant relations. In such instances, you may find the more ethical and profitable option to hire a professional property manager for your renter or to handle the task personally if preferred.
Lease Documents
Several single-family rental property owners ask that their tenants handle snow removal. If you want to do something similar, be sure to include clear language in your lease outlining your tenant’s responsibilities for that work. Another effective practice is to give any relevant information from local ordinances if your tenant is required to adhere to certain regulations. Clear lease documents can help your tenant understand their snow removal responsibilities and can be an invaluable resource in the event of an argument.
Alternatively, if you plan to provide snow removal, mention that information in the lease as well. You should also include expectations for that service, such as moving vehicles or not parking on the street throughout snow removal service hours.
One significant advantage of hiring a property management company such as Real Property Management Peace is our assistance in effectively handling weather-related maintenance at your rental property. Contact us or call 702-848-2509 today to understand more about our range of property management services in Las Vegas and nearby areas.
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