Winter may bring scenic snowfall, but for property managers and strata councils, it also brings serious legal risks. Every year, slip-and-fall accidents across British Columbia lead to costly lawsuits — many of which could have been avoided with proactive snow and ice management.
At Only Strata Snow Removal, we’ve seen how quickly one missed salting can turn into a five-figure liability claim. Strata communities in Snow Removal New Westminster and surrounding areas must treat snow removal not as a seasonal convenience, but as a legal responsibility.
What Makes Strata Properties High-Risk in Winter
Strata environments combine shared spaces, high traffic, and mixed surfaces — all of which increase exposure risk.
h3: Common High-Risk Areas
- Walkways and ramps between buildings
- Underground parkade entrances
- Shared mail and garbage collection zones
- Driveway slopes that freeze overnight
When these areas aren’t properly maintained or documented, councils can be held liable under BC’s duty-of-care laws.
The Legal and Financial Fallout of Poor Snow Removal
Even when a council believes it took “reasonable steps,” courts often rule based on evidence — not intent.
A single claim can cost:
- $15,000–$25,000 in defense fees for an unsuccessful case
- $100,000–$400,000+ in damages for successful claims
- Significant increases in future insurance premiums
Without time-stamped service reports or proof of maintenance, councils can face full responsibility even during extreme weather.
Documentation Is the Strata’s Best Defense
The strongest liability protection comes from digital documentation.
Modern snow removal providers now use GPS tracking and mobile apps to record:
- Exact time and duration of each visit
- Type and quantity of salt applied
- Before-and-after photos
- Weather conditions during service
This evidence can make or break a legal defense.
How Proactive Service Prevents Liability
Prevention always costs less than reaction. Proactive snow and ice control should include:
- Pre-salting before freeze events
- On-call dispatching during storms
- Post-storm monitoring for refreeze conditions
Providers that rely on reactive “on-demand” service leave dangerous gaps. Strata communities that invest in proactive coverage protect both residents and budgets.
Why Specialization Matters
Not all snow removal companies are built for strata environments.
Providers that juggle commercial lots, malls, or government contracts often spread their crews too thin — leaving residential communities last on the list.
At Only Strata Snow Removal, our strata-exclusive focus ensures that shared properties receive timely, fully documented service with guaranteed salt reserves and $5M liability coverage.
For communities in Snow Removal New Westminster, that specialization translates directly to safety and peace of mind.
Conclusion: Liability Is Preventable — If You Prepare
Slip-and-fall claims aren’t random — they’re predictable and preventable with the right systems in place.
By partnering with a dedicated, documentation-first provider like Only Strata Snow Removal, strata councils ensure that winter storms never become legal storms.
Proactive planning isn’t an expense — it’s protection for your community’s safety, reputation, and financial stability.
