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When Is the Best Time to Enrol in a Snow Removal Contract?

At Only Strata Snow Removal, we specialize exclusively in strata properties, offices, and mixed-use retail—offering premium winter maintenance with optimized routes, efficient service, and proactive care. Winter in the Lower Mainland brings an average of 26 days of freezing ground conditions and about 3 major snowfalls per year, with even more severe conditions in the Fraser Valley. Having a plan in place is not just smart—it’s essential.

We proudly serve 26 cities across the Lower Mainland, Metro Vancouver, Greater Vancouver, Fraser Valley, North Shore, and Tri-Cities.

Strata council members reviewing snow removal contract options in Metro Vancouver

Why Timing Matters for Strata & Multi-Unit Snow Removal

  • Capacity fills fast: Top snow removal companies limit the number of clients to guarantee reliable service.

  • Salt shortages are real: Regional salt reserves run low every winter. Early contracts ensure your property has supply guaranteed.

  • Legal liability risk: Slip-and-fall claims spike as soon as the first frost hits. Without a contract in place, strata councils and property managers may face uninsured exposure.

Snow removal enrolment calendar highlighting best months August to October for strata contracts

The Best Months to Secure Your Winter Contract

Enrolment Window: August 1 – October 31

  • August: Early birds lock in priority service, secure salt supply, and gain peace of mind before competitors.

  • September: Peak enrolment season. Strata councils approve budgets, and contracts are signed to guarantee a spot.

  • October: Last call. Many providers hit capacity by mid-October. Late sign-ups risk being wait-listed or left unprotected.

What Happens If You Wait Too Long?

  • Limited coverage areas

  • Higher emergency rates

  • Delayed response times

  • Increased liability exposure

By November, most reputable providers—including Only Strata—are at full capacity.

Property manager signing early snow removal agreement for strata and mixed-use properties in the Lower Mainland

Why Strata Councils Prefer Early Enrolment

  • Budget alignment: Most councils finalize budgets mid-year, making August–September ideal for approval.

  • Insurance compliance: Many insurers require proof of snow and ice management before winter coverage begins.

  • Operational readiness: Early site plans allow providers to map driveways, walkways, and high-risk zones before the first storm.

📸 Real Results You Can See

Local Example: Burnaby & New Westminster

In high-density zones like Burnaby snow removal and New Westminster snow removal, early contracts are critical. Limited capacity means stratas, offices, and mixed-use complexes that delay sign-up may be forced onto waitlists—leaving residents, tenants, and businesses exposed to unsafe conditions.

Winter maintenance crew applying road salting service at a strata complex in Burnaby BC

How Only Strata Guarantees Capacity

  • Unlike commercial providers, Only Strata is exclusive to strata and multi-unit residential communities. We enforce strict capacity caps, guaranteeing:

  • Priority response times

  • Dedicated equipment for your site

  • Full liability protection with GPS-stamped photo documentation

  • Guaranteed access to over 1,000 tonnes of reserved de-icing salt

 

Final Word: Don’t Wait Until the First Snowflake

The best time to enrol is before October 31. By acting early, your strata secures coverage, avoids liability, and guarantees uninterrupted winter protection.

Comparison chart of Only Strata vs traditional snow removal providers for strata properties
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