Snow & Ice Management: A Simple Winter Plan for Commercial Sites

Winter conditions create one of the biggest seasonal risks for commercial properties: slips, access disruption, complaints, and urgent call-outs. The best approach is planned and proactive—so you’re not reacting at the worst possible time.

Step 1: Define priority zones

Identify must-stay-safe areas such as main entrances, accessible bays, key walkways, ramps, delivery access, steps and shaded routes that freeze first.

Step 2: Agree triggers and timing

Good winter maintenance responds to triggers like overnight freezes and forecasted snow. Agree preopening coverage and how reactive support works during operating hours.

Step 3: Keep materials and access sorted

Ensure grit/salt is available, priority routes aren’t blocked, and on-site teams know which areas are prioritised.

Step 4: Communication removes chaos

Set expectations: who to contact, what areas are prioritised, and when maintenance is expected. Clear communication reduces complaints.

Step 5: Use a contractor who understands risk

Winter support should be reliable, insured and fast to respond. It works best when integrated with your ongoing grounds maintenance so the contractor already knows your site.

Enquire about snow and ice support as part of a commercial maintenance package—so you’re prepared before conditions hit.