There’s no time like the present to plan for the first snowfall.

Whether you’re looking for someone to dig out your driveway, or contracting a service on behalf of a neighborhood association, here’s what you need to ask as you consider snow and ice removal services:

• What services do you provide? Depending on the conditions forecast, many services are at the ready to lay down salt or other deicers, such as calcium chloride, as soon as bad weather is expected. If a snow that can’t be handled with deicing is expected, removal companies will plow, haul snow, and shovel sidewalks and other walkways in order to maintain safety.
• What kind of staff and equipment do you use? Most companies employ radio dispatchers in addition to their snow removal specialists. They may also have at their disposal commercial grade equipment such as skid steers, front-end loaders, snow plows and pushers.
• What planning takes place before the storm? Many companies will visit your site when you contract with them so they can plan for the precise services that may be required when a storm actually hits. Make a plan with the provider that will best suit your needs.
• What priority is given to my needs? Chances are any given snow removal company has several clients, so you may or may not be the first on the list to service. If you have any special needs that should give you priority, such as health conditions that could require treatment at a facility, you could let the company know.
• What is the cost, and how is it calculated? The cost varies on the market conditions of a particular area and current fuel costs. If you know you live in an area of the country that is likely to experience a certain amount of snow, you may be able to lock in a reasonable rate because the company will expect a minimum amount of work. Fees can start at $30 per storm for a two-car driveway of average length and can go as high as $65 for a long driveway or one that is gravel rather than concrete, according to Costhelper.com.

As always, get three estimates; check references, insurance and bonding, and licensing when hiring a highly rated snow removal service.