Edmonton can see it’s fair share of snowfall. While snow shoveling isn’t anyone’s favourite pastime, both landlords and tenants must work together to remove snow build up and help keep walkways clear and safe. 

This snowy season, regardless of whether you’re a tenant or a property manager, remember these important tips:

• Fire hydrants should be free of built-up snow. Never pile snow around a hydrant when clearing walkways or parking lots.
• Storm sewer grates are important for the prevention of flooding. Ensure grates near or on the property are free of packed snow and ice. 
• Never shovel snow onto the road. Because this can cause accidents and interfere with traffic, snow shovelled onto the street can also result in a $250 fine. 
• Free sand is available from the city’s roadway maintenance yards and at participating community leagues.

If you’re a landlord, snow removal on your rental properties is up to you. Unless you have a signed agreement with your tenant that states otherwise, it’s important to react quickly and remove collected snow from parking lots, walkways, and sidewalks. 

• Notify your tenants to expect a plow to clear parking lots after a heavy snow. Ask that cars be removed from the lot to avoid plow-ins and hazards. 
• Always salt or sand parking lots, walkways, and sidewalks as soon as possible after accumulation. 

While renting, snow removal is not up to tenants; however, it is the tenant’s responsibility to aid in snow clearing by removing their vehicle from the parking lot before the plow arrives. If you cannot remove your vehicle prior to a plowing, it becomes your responsibility to clear the remaining snow from around your vehicle. 

It's important to note that tenants of single dwelling rentals are responsible for clearing snow from their rental’s properties. Unless you have an agreement with your landlord, remove built up snow and ice promptly to ensure walkways are safe for you, your guests, and the community.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, let Re/max Rental Advisors manage your rental properties for you. We also offer several rentals throughout Alberta for anyone looking for a new apartment this winter.