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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which Areas Do You Serve?
    We are proud to be the leaders in Strata Winter Maintenance across: Vancouver The Lower Mainland The Fraser Valley For a full list of the neighborhoods and cities we service, please visit our Service Zone section.
  • What kind of contracts does Only-Strata Offer?
    At Only-Strata, we offer automatic service agreements designed specifically for Strata's, with: Seasonal Billing – Full-service coverage for the entire winter season. Per-Visit Billing – Pay only when service is needed, ideal for properties with lighter needs. All of our contracts include priority response times, 24/7 monitoring, and detailed service logs to keep your Strata safe, compliant, and well-maintained throughout the winter. Learn More about our contracts here
  • Do you Offer On-call Services?
    No, Instead, our contract clients benefit from proactive monitoring and scheduled response, with equipment and personnel already assigned in advance. ​ ⚠️ What seems cheaper in the short term can cost far more later — in liability claims, legal issues, resident complaints, and insurance complications. 🛑 At Only-Strata, our equipment, manpower, and attention are fully dedicated to our valued contract holders — not one-off calls.
  • Are you the Cheapest Snow Removal & Salting Provider?
    If you’re shopping for the cheapest snow removal option, we advise caution. ​ 🧊 Low prices often mean low standards — from part-time providers who treat winter work as a side hustle. These businesses often lack proper insurance, equipment, or systems for real-time monitoring. ​ At Only-Strata, our prices are competitive and fairly structured, reflecting our specialization in strata properties and our commitment to quality, consistency, and safety. ​ We’re not the cheapest — and we don’t aim to be. We aim to be the best value.
  • What kind of equipment do you use?
    At Only-Strata, we specialize in servicing Strata residential complexes—so all of our tools and equipment are carefully selected with Strata-specific needs in mind. We are proud to operate the largest fleet of ATV salting and plowing units in British Columbia. Our services also include: Snow blowers for efficient clearing in tight areas Additional manual labour for those hard-to-reach spots Appropriately sized truck plows that are ideal for Strata roadways and parking areas From equipment to personnel, everything we deploy is optimized for safety, accessibility, and reliability in residential Strata environments.
  • What are the Only-Strata 4 Guarantees?
    we back our service with four rock-solid guarantees, each created with one goal: putting you first: Freedom to cancel, Proof Before Payment, Damage Free, Commitment to Quality
  • What is the "Freedom-to-Cancel" Guarantee?
    Not happy? Cancel anytime, hassle-free. We believe in earning your trust—not locking you in. If you're ever dissatisfied, you can end your contract on short notice, no questions asked.
  • What is the "Proof-Before-Payment" Guarantee?
    If there’s no service record, there’s no charge. Every visit is logged through our mobile tracking system. If we can’t provide documentation of a completed service (excluding technical issues), you won’t be billed.
  • What is the "Damage-Free" Guarantee?
    Accidents happen. If we’re at fault, we’ll make it right—at no cost to you. While we take every precaution, if damage occurs due to our negligence, we’ll handle all necessary repairs promptly and responsibly.
  • What is the "Commitment-to-Quality" Guarantee?
    Your satisfaction matters. If something’s not right, we’ll fix it—fast and fairly. We stand behind the quality of our work. Should an issue arise, we’re committed to resolving it quickly in accordance with the high standards set out in our service agreement.
  • Is Requesting a Winter Maintenance Quote Free?
    Yes – requesting a quote is completely free! Just fill out our Quick-Quote tool, and we’ll get back to you with a customized estimate tailored to your Strata property.
  • What are Digital Service Reports?
    Every service is followed by a digital report, available the next morning. These reports include: • GPS-tracked service details • Time-stamped before-and-after photos • Notes from the service team • Weather conditions • Areas serviced Reports can be downloaded directly from our website or emailed to the address of your choice—whatever works best for you.
  • Will The Digital Service Reports be Valid In the Event of a Court Case?
    Prepared for Liability—Because Protection Matters Our reports are structured to meet legal standards and are designed to hold up in court in the event of a slip-and-fall claim. This proactive documentation helps protect your strata from liability while demonstrating your commitment to resident safety.
  • How does Only-Strata Utilize Modern Technology?
    At OnlyStrata, we don’t just perform winter maintenance—we optimize it through technology. Our team uses advanced mobile apps to document every service in real-time. Each visit includes GPS-tracked routing, detailed service notes, and before-and-after photos. This ensures complete transparency and gives you peace of mind that your property is being cared for—exactly when and how you expect.
  • What are the Advantages of Using technology for Winter Maintenance?
    Real-Time Updates, Always in the Know As services are performed at your property, you’ll receive live updates—so you’re never left wondering whether or when your site was serviced. We believe that keeping our clients informed is not just good service—it’s essential. Efficiency Through Technology and Capacity Control By leveraging GPS and routing software, we plan the most efficient service paths to minimize delays and maximize effectiveness. And because we strictly cap our client capacity, we are never overcommitted. This means you get the fast, high-quality service you were promised, every time.
  • Do you take on Commercial Clients?
    No. At Only-Strata, we work exclusively with Strata Councils. Since our founding in 2016, we’ve been 100% focused on serving strata-managed communities—including: High-rise residential buildings Townhouse complexes Low-rise apartment buildings Senior-living strata properties By dedicating our services solely to strata corporations, we bring deep expertise and a more personalized, effective approach to strata property management. We do not service commercial or mixed-use clients.
  • Why do you only Service Strata Properties?
    In 2016, we made a clear and intentional decision: to specialize exclusively in strata properties. Our goal was to fill a gap in the market by providing strata communities with the dedicated, top-priority winter service they deserve — without being pushed to the bottom of the list behind large commercial contracts during snowstorms. By focusing solely on stratas, we've built custom routes, efficient logistics, and responsive service models tailored to this unique property type. This specialization has proven to be a smart and successful choice — and one that continues to benefit our clients season after season. At Only-Strata, your property is never an afterthought. It's our focus.
  • Does Only-Strata Provide any Services Other than Winter Maintenance?
    No. At Only-Strata, we believe in doing one thing — and doing it exceptionally well. We’ve chosen to specialize exclusively in winter maintenance for strata properties, allowing us to stay focused, efficient, and highly reliable. We don’t offer landscaping, janitorial, or general contracting services — no distractions, no divided priorities. By narrowing our scope, we’ve built unmatched expertise in proactive, high-quality winter care — and our clients see the difference. Strata winter maintenance isn’t just part of what we do — it’s all we do.
  • How do you ensure all your clients receive equal and prompt service?
    At Only-Strata, fairness and reliability are at the core of our service model. We take several key steps to ensure every client gets the attention they deserve—especially during critical weather events: Strict Capacity Cap We don’t overbook. Period. We limit the number of properties we service so that each one receives timely and consistent attention. Efficient Route Logistics Our service routes are carefully planned and optimized to minimize delays and ensure faster response times across all sites. Service Integrity We don’t front-load profits by focusing only on salting and skipping snowfalls. When it snows, we show up. Every time. We’re committed to providing the service you were promised, when it’s needed most. By prioritizing long-term relationships over short-term gains, we maintain high service standards for every strata we serve.
  • What happens if there's a major snowstorm?
    We’re ready. At Only-Strata, we plan for worst-case scenarios—not just ideal ones. When a major snowstorm hits: Our team is dispatched immediately according to pre-planned, priority-based routes. We maintain real-time communication with clients and site supervisors. We adjust our logistics on the fly to ensure all properties remain accessible and safe. We also do not cancel or delay service due to volume. Thanks to our strict capacity cap, we’re never stretched too thin—even during extreme weather.
  • How quickly can you respond during an emergency?
    Response time depends on the weather severity and the position of your property within our optimized route schedule, but generally: Most clients receive service within a few hours of snowfall beginning. In urgent cases (such as blocked access for emergency vehicles or mobility-impaired residents), we can escalate your priority and deploy a crew sooner. We track all incoming weather alerts, dispatch proactively, and communicate transparently throughout. Our system is built to act before problems escalate.
  • Why do most snow removal companies fail to deliver quality winter maintenance?
    The biggest issue? For 95% of snow removal providers, winter maintenance is just a side gig. Most are actually full-time landscapers, roofers, pressure washers, or janitorial companies who pivot to snow services in the off-season. Their equipment, staffing, and logistics aren’t built for the demands of reliable, proactive snow and ice management. This results in: ❌ Delayed service during storms ❌ Overbooked crews ❌ Inconsistent quality ❌ Lack of weather monitoring systems ❌ Higher liability risks for clients At Only-Strata, winter maintenance isn’t a seasonal add-on — it’s our sole focus. Our team, routes, equipment, and systems are designed year-round for strata winter care. That’s why we deliver where others fall short. Specialization matters. Especially when safety is on the line.
  • Why OnlyStrata Exists?
    Historically, strata complexes have been placed at the bottom of the priority list during snow events. Most snow removal companies serve a wide mix of clients—shopping plazas, warehouses, gas stations, fast-food restaurants, and a few strata properties thrown in. When a snowstorm hits, how do you think the priority is assigned? Typically, strata complexes are left waiting, often for many hours—exposing residents to unnecessary risks and liabilities. This outdated approach is exactly why OnlyStrata was created. We serve only strata clients. That’s non-negotiable. And because every one of our clients is a strata, they all receive equal priority—no one gets bumped down the list.
  • Are you taking on new clients?
    Yes — but spaces are limited. At Only-Strata, we carefully manage our client list to maintain the highest standards of service and response times. Unlike companies that overbook to maximize profits during salting events, only to fall short when heavy snow hits, we stay true to our commitments. When snowfall demands immediate action, our clients are never left waiting. That’s the Only-Strata difference. If you're a strata property manager looking for reliable, proactive winter maintenance, we encourage you to secure your spot early — ideally in July or August — before routes fill up for the season.
  • Do you have enough road salt to service all your clients?
    Yes. We maintain a minimum of 1,000 tonnes of road salt in our own storage facilities—often significantly more. This ensures we can deliver consistent, uninterrupted service even during extreme winter weather and industry-wide supply shortages
  • Will our property still be serviced during a salt shortage?
    Absolutely. Our secure, independently managed salt supply allows us to continue servicing all contracted strata properties, regardless of external market disruptions.
  • Do you offer proactive salting before a snow event?
    Yes. We offer pre-storm salting and ice monitoring to reduce buildup and improve safety before conditions worsen. This is included in many all of our winter maintenance packages.
  • How is pricing structured for strata winter services?
    We offer both seasonal flat-rate contracts and per-visit pricing depending on your needs. Seasonal contracts provide predictability, while per-visit options offer flexibility for smaller sites or lower-traffic areas.
  • Is road salt included in the price?
    Yes. All necessary materials—including road salt, brine, and ice melt—are included in our pricing unless otherwise specified in your contract.
  • How often will we be billed?
    Billing is typically issued monthly, but we also accommodate custom schedules upon request. Seasonal contracts may also be split into equal installments for easier budgeting.
  • Are there any hidden fees?
    No. We believe in transparent pricing. All fees and charges will be clearly outlined in your service agreement, including any optional add-ons like emergency callouts or extra site visits.
  • Can we get a customized quote?
    Absolutely. We’ll assess your property and service needs to provide a detailed, no-obligation quote that fits your budget and expectations.
  • Why Does Only-Strata Have their own In-House Mechanics?
    In-House Mechanics = Minimal Downtime, Maximum Reliability Equipment breakdowns are a part of winter reality—but delays don’t have to be. Unlike other companies our crews don't rely on waiting for 3rd party mechanics
  • Does Only-Strata Have a Perfect 100% Liability Record?
    Yes! We’re proud to maintain a Perfect Liability Record. Our unwavering commitment to quality service, paired with meticulous documentation and fully organized digital reports, means our clients have enjoyed a 100% success rate in defending slip-and-fall claim
  • Does Only-Strata Corp. Really Have 100% Strata Clients Only?
    At Only-Strata Corp., it’s 100% Strata. Always. We don’t split our attention between commercial plazas, warehouses, gas stations, or government contracts. Our sole focus is on Strata communities just like yours. That means no divided priorities, no second-tier service, and no distractions
  • ​What is a Winter-Maintenance Contract, and how can it Save you Money?
    A winter maintenance contract is a service agreement between your property and a professional snow and ice management company—like OnlyStrata Corp.—that ensures proactive and timely salting, plowing, and ice control throughout the winter season. Rather than reacting to snowfall or freezing conditions after they occur, this contract allows your property to receive automated, weather-monitored service whenever it’s needed—typically when temperatures drop below 0°C and precipitation is expected. Our dedicated team monitors weather conditions daily and determines when action is necessary, so you don’t have to guess or wait until it’s too late.
  • How Much is the Average Slip-And-Fall Claim in Canada?
    Minor Injuries: For less serious injuries, such as soft tissue damage or bruising, settlements typically range from $10,000 to $30,000. Moderate Injuries: If your injuries involve fractures or prolonged recovery periods, you could see settlements ranging between $30,000 to $75,000. Severe Injuries: In cases of life-changing injuries, such as spinal cord damage, brain injuries, or permanent disability, settlements can exceed $100,000, sometimes reaching up to $400,000 or more.
  • What Happened during the 2017 and 2025 Salt Shortages?
    Recall the 2017 shortage in Metro Vancouver: strata councils and businesses went weeks without salt, resulting in thousands of slip‑and‑fall claims, vehicle accidents, serious injuries, property damage, and millions in liability costs. Again in 2025, Ontario saw a similar crisis when demand outstripped supply. At OnlyStrata Corp., we invest heavily each year—well before the season begins—in insulated storage facilities and modern loading equipment. When you choose OnlyStrata, you’re choosing: • Guaranteed availability of up to 1,000 tonnes of road salt • On‑time delivery, regardless of regional shortages • Reduced liability from slip‑and‑fall and vehicular incidents • Peace of mind knowing your property stays safe and accessible Don’t gamble with unpredictable suppliers. Partner with OnlyStrata Corp. for seamless, professional winter maintenance—and keep your property secure all season long.
  • What are the Legal Responsibilities of Stratas during the Winter?
    British Columbia’s Strata Property Act and Occupiers Liability Act place a clear duty on Strata corporations to ensure that common areas are safe and accessible during all seasons, including winter. ​ 📢 Under BC law, a Strata can be held legally and financially responsible for injuries caused by unsafe conditions like snow and ice. Hiring a professional snow removal company is a critical step in demonstrating due diligence. ​ Failing to properly maintain walkways, driveways, or entryways could result in: Personal injury claims Lawsuits from residents or visitors Higher insurance premiums Damage to the Strata’s reputation
  • What are the Safety risks of snow and ice Buildup?
    Typical Safety Risks Include: Slip-and-fall incidents Blocked access for emergency vehicles Car accidents in slippery parking lots ​​ Hiring a dedicated snow removal service ensures timely, reliable responses to changing weather conditions—often before problems begin.
  • What are the responsibilities of Strata Councils during Winter Months?
    Strata councils are responsible for: Annual planning for winter maintenance Budget allocation for seasonal services Hiring qualified contractors Ensuring compliance with provincial and local regulations ​ 📢 Volunteers or residents shoveling snow may seem cost-effective, but they don’t meet insurance standards and increase liability risk. Only insured professionals should handle this responsibility.
  • Why are Winters in the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley Different from the rest of Canada?
    ​When most people think of Canadian winters, they picture relentless snow, deep freezes, and weeks of icy roads. But in Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, winter plays by its own rules. ​ Here, snow comes less often—but when it does, it hits hard and fast, disrupting life in communities that aren’t built for sudden surges of snow and ice. It’s unpredictable, wet, heavy, and often short-lived, making it one of the most challenging environments for snow removal and winter maintenance in the country.
  • When is the Best time to Enroll in a Winter Maintenance Contract?
    ​​The season runs from November 1 to March 31, but the best time to secure your winter maintenance contract is July or August. Because we exclusively serve strata clients, we are selective with our contracts to ensure optimal route logistics and fast response times. Early enrollment ensures your property is included in our high-efficiency routes and avoids the risk of late-season unavailability.​​
  • How frequently to Snow-Falls Happen in the Lower Mainland?
    Winter in the Lower Mainland brings an average of 23 days of freezing ground conditions and about 3 snowfalls per year, with even more severe conditions in the Fraser Valley. Having a plan in place is not just smart—it’s essential At Only-Strata, we specialize exclusively in strata properties—offering premium winter maintenance with optimized routes, efficient service, and proactive care.
  • How frequently do Snow-Falls happen in the Fraser Valley?
    Snowfall Frequency: The Fraser Valley typically experiences 5 to 15 days of measurable snowfall per year, varying by location and elevation. Freezing Days Frequency: A freezing day is when the temperature drops to or below 0°C (32°F) at any point during the day. The Fraser Valley averages around 20 to 40 freezing days per year, mostly during the winter months (December through February). These freezing days contribute to icy conditions, even when there is no snow, and often require proactive road and walkway treatment.
  • Can Our Strata Do Our Own Winter Maintenance?
    No, we strongly recommend against it. Winter maintenance requires specialized equipment, trained personnel, and reliable access to materials like road salt—all of which are essential for safe and effective snow and ice management. Without these, there’s a significant risk of: Inconsistent or inadequate treatment leading to unsafe walkways and roads Liability issues if residents or visitors are injured due to slips or falls Delays in response times, especially during severe weather or supply shortages Our professional service guarantees that your property is kept safe and compliant with local regulations, with prompt and reliable winter care throughout the season.
  • Can we meet with your team before the season starts?
    Yes—we offer pre-season site visits and walkthroughs with strata council members or property managers to review expectations, site challenges, and service logistics.
  • What happens if we have a complaint or service concern?
    We take concerns seriously and respond within 24 hours. A manager will review service logs, speak to crew leads, and resolve the issue promptly and transparently.
  • How do you manage crew quality and training?
    Every crew member undergoes hands-on training, supervised shifts, and seasonal refreshers. Team leads conduct quality checks and report back after each service cycle.
  • Is sidewalk and walkway clearing included in your service?
    Yes. All primary walkways, building entrances, fire exits, Play-Grounds, ramps and Stair-ways are cleared and de-iced unless otherwise specified in your scope of work.
  • What Are the Processes Involved in Snow Removal and Salting Services?
    Our snow and ice management services follow a proactive, three-phase approach to keep your Strata property safe and accessible: Before a Storm We apply salt or a de-icing material—in advance of snowfall. This helps prevent snow and ice from bonding to pavement, making it easier to clear and reducing slip hazards. During a Storm Our crews and equipment are actively deployed to plow and salt high-traffic areas, including driveways, walkways, and entryways, keeping them as clear and safe as possible. After a Storm Post-storm, we continue clearing residual snow and ice, apply additional salting as needed, and monitor conditions for refreezing. Helpful Tip: Residents can assist by keeping catch basins clear, allowing melting snow and slush to drain properly and prevent pooling or ice buildup.
  • Where Can I Find a Map of Winter Road Maintenance Routes?
    Every local municipality publishes a Winter Maintenance Route Map—these maps clearly identify: Which roads and sidewalks are maintained Priority routes (e.g., emergency, arterial, residential) The types of equipment used (truck plows, snow blowers, salt/sand spreaders) Municipalities typically offer this information both online and in printed form at town or city offices. For example, if you’re in Vancouver, you can view the city's official snow removal and salting route maps on their winter maintenance page by clicking Here
  • Who Is Responsible for Snow Removal—Me or the City?
    Snow removal is a shared responsibility: The City handles major roads, bus routes, and emergency access areas, prioritizing based on severity and route importance. Property owners and occupants must clear sidewalks around their property by 10 a.m. the day after snowfall. Failure to remove snow may result in fines, especially for commercial or multi-residential properties.
  • What happens if there’s continuous snowfall?
    During ongoing storms, our teams perform continuous clearing in cycles, focusing on high-traffic and priority areas first. Final cleanup happens once the snowfall ends.
  • Is your equipment suitable for tight Strata spaces?
    Yes—we use compact ATVs, snow blowers, and manual crews for confined areas like townhome lanes, narrow sidewalks, and stairways.
  • Can I Be Liable for Others’ Injuries on My Property?
    Yes, property owners can be held liable for injuries caused by slips and falls due to snow and ice. However, by contracting a professional service like Only-Strata, you demonstrate a reasonable effort to maintain safety, which can significantly reduce your liability risk.
  • Will I Be “Locked In” to a Snow Removal Contract?
    Never. We offer an “easy out” cancellation clause, allowing you to cancel the contract at any time, for any reason, with short notice. No long-term commitment, just reliable service when you need it.
  • How Do You Prevent or Fix Property Damage from Snow Removal?
    Transparency is key—and while rare, property damage from snow removal equipment can happen. That’s why prevention is our top priority. We take several proactive steps, including: Pre-season site walk-throughs Detailed service maps Marking curbs and obstacles Operator training in safe, low-impact techniques We maintain a 95–99% damage-free rate, depending on the season. In the unlikely event of damage caused by our team, we take full responsibility and handle all necessary repairs—start to finish.
  • How Do You Protect Customers from Liability?
    We take liability seriously and have strict procedures in place to protect our customers: $5,000,000 General Liability Insurance Extensive Automobile Fleet Insurance Mobile tracking app that logs each service with GPS, photos, and real-time data Every snow removal visit is documented and stored securely. In the event of a claim or inquiry, we can quickly provide detailed proof of service. Thanks to these protocols, we've proudly maintained a perfect, claim-free record since our company began.
  • Are There Hidden Costs Like Fuel Surcharges?
    No. All costs are clearly outlined in our straightforward contract—there are no surprise fees or hidden charges. We prioritize safety and customer satisfaction above all else.
  • How much does Salting and Snow Removal Cost?
    Costs can vary depending on the size of your Strata property, the level of service, and the type of contract you choose (seasonal or per-visit). At Only-Strata, we offer competitive, transparent pricing—no hidden fees, fuel surcharges, or surprise costs. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to use our Quick-Quote tool, which provides a fast, obligation-free quote tailored to your property's needs.
  • Why is snow sticking to my shovel?
    Snow sticks when your shovel blade is warmer than the snow. To avoid this, store your shovel in a cool place like a shed or garage. For an extra boost, coat the blade with cooking spray, vegetable oil, petroleum jelly, or floor wax to make it nonstick. Just be sure to cover both sides and reapply as needed. Or skip the hassle—call a professional snow removal service like Only-Strata and let us handle the heavy lifting for you!
  • Why Are You Salting My Property So Often?
    Because ice doesn’t take a day off—and neither do we. At Only-Strata, we salt early and often to stay ahead of slippery conditions, especially during those sneaky freeze-thaw cycles where things melt by day and freeze into a skating rink overnight. We’re not just throwing salt around for fun (though we do it with style). It’s all part of our proactive safety plan to keep walkways, stairs, and driveways safe for your residents—before it becomes a problem. So if it feels like we’re always salting... it’s because we care. (And your insurance company would agree.)
  • What’s the Average Number of Times You Salt During a Season?
    On average, we salt 23 to 32 times per winter season, depending on the weather. In milder winters, it might be closer to 23. But during colder or more unpredictable seasons—with lots of freeze-thaw cycles—it can climb to 30 or even more times. At Only-Strata, we use real-time weather monitoring to decide exactly when salting is needed. So you're never over- or under-serviced—just safely covered.
  • What Is the Average Number of Times You Snow Plow During a Season?
    On average, we plow 2 to 7 times per winter season, depending on snowfall levels. Lighter winters may only need a few plows, while snow-heavy years can bring us out more frequently. We dispatch based on accumulation thresholds—typically around 2 inches or more—and always with safety and access in mind. With Only-Strata, you get reliable, timely service every time it snows enough to need it.
  • I Don’t Want an Automatic Service Agreement. Can I Just Call When We Need?
    We don’t offer on-call snow removal because we fill up quickly each season with scheduled clients. Besides, your insurance company would agree—having an automatic service agreement is safer and often cheaper in the long run.
  • What Is the Correct Way of Removing Snow?
    The best way to remove snow is to start early and remove it frequently—don’t wait for deep piles to build up. Use proper tools like a sturdy shovel or snow blower, and focus on clearing walkways, stairs, and driveways first for safety. When shoveling, push snow to the sides rather than lifting it to avoid strain. Take breaks and dress warmly. For larger properties or heavy snowfall, consider hiring professionals like Only-Strata who have the right equipment and expertise to keep your property safe and accessible.
  • Your Crews Make Too Much Noise When Clearing Snow—Can You Do Something About It?
    We totally get that snow removal can be noisy, especially early in the morning or during heavy storms. Our crews use powerful equipment to clear snow quickly and safely, which sometimes means noise is unavoidable. That said, we train our operators to be as respectful as possible and schedule work to minimize disruption whenever we can. If noise is a particular concern for your property, please let us know—we’re happy to discuss options to help reduce impact.
  • When should we book our winter maintenance service?
    Book early—ideally before winter starts. We fill up fast, so securing your spot ahead of time guarantees priority service. The best time to secure your contract with Only-Strata is July-September.
  • Why is strata-specific experience important?
    Strata properties have unique needs—like bylaw compliance and managing common areas. Only a company specialized in strata can provide tailored, efficient service. Don’t trust your community’s safety and comfort to a Jack-of-All-Trades company juggling shopping malls, warehouses, and businesses—where strata often become a last priority.
  • How do I know when snow removal or salting has been done?
    We provide detailed service logs with GPS tracking, timestamps, and photos, keeping you fully informed.
  • What kind of insurance should a winter maintenance company have?
    Look for at least $5 million in General Liability Insurance and comprehensive automobile insurance to protect your strata.
  • Do you provide pre-treatment before storms hit?
    Yes. Pre-treatment (anti-icing) is part of our core strategy and is done ahead of forecasted events, especially for high-traffic and sloped strata complexes.
  • What’s your liability record with strata properties?
    We have a 100% success rate defending strata clients in slip-and-fall claims. Our internal procedures are designed to exceed court expectations.
  • How do you handle unexpected overnight freeze events?
    Our proprietary monitoring triggers auto-response deployments without needing client notification. Overnight inspections and black ice sweeps are standard.
  • How can a strata council track or audit service?
    Clients receive access to a digital Client Portal with real-time logs, reporting tools, and historical treatment archives for their properties.
  • What makes Only-Strata different from general snow removal companies?
    We are 100% strata-focused. Unlike “jack-of-all-trades” services, we exclusively service strata properties with tailored equipment, documentation, and risk management practices.
  • How many staff does Only-Strata have during peak winter service?
    During peak snow and ice events, Only-Strata mobilizes over 100+ team members, including: Field crews Specialized contractors On-the-ground shift managers Regional supervisors This scale allows us to maintain rapid response times across all serviced cities in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, even during the most demanding winter conditions.
  • 10. How much equipment does Only-Strata operate?
    Only-Strata maintains and deploys a large, strata-optimized fleet that includes: ✅ 50+ salt spreaders (truck-mounted and walk-behind) ✅ 30+ snow plows and blade attachments ✅ Dozens of ATVs and UTVs for narrow strata access ✅ Hand crews equipped with high-efficiency shoveling and salting tools ✅ GPS tracking and live-time dispatching on all major units All equipment is dedicated solely to strata service, meaning we’re never stretched thin by commercial or municipal demands.
  • How many locations does Only-Strata operate from?
    Only-Strata operates from multiple regional dispatch points across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, allowing us to cover 27+ cities efficiently. Our key operational zones include: Central Dispatch Hubs: Located in Surrey for fleet coordination and real-time response Regional Satellite Yards: In Vancouver, Burnaby, Langley, Abbotsford, and Chilliwack. these locations hold Road salt supply and Equipment. This structure ensures we're always within 10–20 minutes of our clients during winter service hours.
  • Do some snow contractors focus on salting contracts but fail to show up during storms?
    Unfortunately, yes. In many cases, companies overbook salting routes during light weather and fail to scale up when real snowfalls hit. This leaves strata clients waiting or entirely skipped when it matters most — during active snowstorms. At Only-Strata, we operate differently: ❄️ Snow response is our core mandate, not just salt sales 🧭 Routes are balanced based on time-to-service, not revenue 📋 Each site is prioritized based on risk exposure, not convenience 🚨 During heavy events, we shift into “storm mode” with 24/7 dispatch, backup crews, and real-time updates
  • Why does our current contractor sometimes skip our property or arrive late?
    Many snow companies prioritize commercial or high-traffic sites, placing strata properties lower on their list. With limited staff during peak events, smaller strata sites often experience delays or total service gaps. Only-Strata’s routes are designed exclusively for strata, ensuring you’re not competing for service with malls, schools, or cities. Every route is planned to maintain consistent service times and full coverage.
  • What proof do I have that service was done properly?
    Every visit is logged with: Time-stamped entries Type of service (e.g., pre-salt, full plow, re-apply) GPS tracking for major equipment Option to include photos on request This creates an audit trail that protects your strata in the event of any slip-and-fall claims.
  • Our walkways re-freeze overnight — what can we do?
    Overnight re-freeze is one of the biggest liability threats. Many companies don’t perform overnight checks, exposing residents to risk. Only-Strata performs early-morning or overnight inspections during freeze warning hours to ensure no black ice forms after initial service. These checks are included in our Premium service tier.
  • How many years of experience does Only-Strata have in winter services?
    Only-Strata brings over 10 years of specialized experience in strata snow and ice management across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. We don’t serve commercial or municipal clients — just strata. That focus has allowed us to: Build expert systems tailored to shared residential spaces Prevent liability with precision-timed reporting and proactive service Maintain a 100% success record in helping our clients avoid or win slip-and-fall claims With a decade of lessons learned and systems refined, your strata is protected by proven winter service professionals.
  • How many clients does Only-Strata currently serve?
    Only-Strata proudly serves over 300 strata properties across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley — from large townhouse complexes to multi-building residential strata developments. Each client benefits from: Tailored service plans Dedicated routing Access to our proactive dispatch and reporting systems Direct support from our strata-trained management team Our continued growth is driven entirely by word-of-mouth, referrals, and proven reliability — not broad advertising or commercial upselling.
  • Is Only-Strata expensive compared to other snow removal companies?
    Only-Strata may not be the cheapest — but we’re not trying to be. We’re a premium strata-focused service. Many budget providers offer reactive or limited services, often missing critical events or lacking defensible reporting — which can cost your strata far more in legal risk and resident frustration. With Only-Strata, you’re paying for peace of mind, reliability, and results.
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