Seasonal vs Per-Call Snow Removal: The Ultimate Choice for Alberta Businesses Unveiled

Alberta winters are no joke. From unpredictable storms to week-long cold snaps, snow and ice removal isn’t just about convenience—it’s about keeping your business safe, accessible, and operating smoothly.

For commercial property managers in St. Albert, Morinville, Spruce Grove, and Edmonton, the question isn’t whether to invest in professional snow removal—it’s what type of contract makes the most sense: seasonal or per-call.

In this article, we’ll break down the differences, weigh the costs, and explain why many Alberta businesses prefer seasonal contracts for long-term reliability.

Understanding Seasonal Snow Removal

A seasonal snow removal contract covers your business for the entire winter season, typically from October through April. You pay a fixed monthly or seasonal rate, and in return, your contractor guarantees timely snow and ice clearing after every snowfall.

Benefits for businesses include:

• Predictable costs – same rate every month, no surprises.

• Priority service – you’re on the schedule before per-call customers.

• Reduced liability – walkways, lots, and entrances stay safe.

• Peace of mind – storms don’t interrupt operations.

👉 Example: Many of our clients in St. Albert and Morinville choose seasonal contracts because they can’t risk parking lots being inaccessible when staff and customers arrive in the morning.

The Per-Call Snow Removal Option

Per-call (or “pay-as-you-go”) snow removal means you only pay when snow exceeds a certain depth, often 5 cm.

Challenges of per-call contracts include:

• Unpredictable costs – light winters may save money, but heavy winters bring budget surprises.

• Slower response times – contractors usually prioritize seasonal clients first.

• Operational risk – snow may sit on your property longer, leading to safety issues.

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👉 Example: Some smaller businesses in Morinville, St. Albert or Edmonton try per-call services to save money, but when storms stack up, they often discover the hidden costs of delays, overtime, and safety concerns.

Comparing Costs: Seasonal vs. Per-Call

On paper, per-call snow removal may look cheaper, especially in a mild year. But in a heavy snowfall season, costs can quickly surpass a seasonal contract.

For example, Alberta averages 13+ major snowstorms each year. Businesses with high traffic—such as shopping centers in Edmonton or multi-unit complexes in St. Albert—benefit from the consistency of a seasonal contract that guarantees their properties stay safe and accessible.

Safety and Liability Considerations

For commercial properties, snow removal isn’t just about looks—it’s about risk management. Slip-and-fall accidents in icy parking lots can lead to expensive liability claims and reputational damage.

Seasonal snow removal ensures consistent clearing, salting, and sanding, giving businesses peace of mind. Whether you manage a warehouse in Edmonton or a retail plaza in St. Albert, proactive snow management keeps customers and employees safe and builds trust in your business.

The Impact on Customer Experience

For businesses that thrive on foot traffic—like restaurants and retail outlets—the customer experience is key. A well-maintained property sends a message that a business cares about its customers' safety. Seasonal snow removal services enable consistent maintenance that sparks customer trust, encouraging repeat visits even during the toughest winter months.

In contrast, businesses opting for per-call services risk disappointing their customers with slow snow removal. In a highly competitive market, ensuring safe access becomes an integral part of customer satisfaction and can make or break a business's reputation.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

When choosing between seasonal and per-call snow removal, consider:

• How critical is timely access to your property?

• Can your budget handle unpredictable per-call expenses?

• How much foot or vehicle traffic does your site experience in winter?

  
  

For most commercial properties in St. Albert, Morinville, Spruce Grove, and Edmonton, the answer is clear: seasonal contracts deliver the consistency, safety, and reliability needed to keep operations running smoothly all winter long.

A snow-covered parking lot with clear pathways for safe access

Final Thoughts

Both seasonal and per-call snow removal services have their place. But for Alberta businesses managing commercial properties, seasonal contracts offer stronger protection against winter’s unpredictability.

At Landman Property Services, we specialize in commercial snow removal services designed for high-traffic properties. Our seasonal contracts keep parking lots, sidewalks, and loading areas clear so your business stays safe and operational no matter the weather.

👉 Contact Landman Property Services Ltd today for a customized seasonal snow removal plan in St. Albert, Morinville, Spruce Grove, or Edmonton.