PRE-SEASON PREP

Preparing Your Property for Winter: A Checklist for Smooth Snow Removal

As winter approaches, getting your property winter-ready is essential for hassle-free snow removal. At Capital Services, we want to ensure smooth service all season long by making sure your property is prepared. Here’s your pre-season checklist to help us help you:

1. Check Your Water Valve Cap

Make sure your water valve cap is level with your driveway. If it’s sticking up, gently tap it down or contact the City at 3-1-1 to have it fixed before the first snowfall. This ensures we don’t accidentally damage it (or your driveway) during snow clearing.

2. Remove Downspout Extensions

If your downspouts run on or near your driveway, remove any extensions to prevent them from getting in the way. This is especially important for shared driveways.

3. Clear Movable Items

Anything that can be moved should be cleared from your snow-clearing area (i.e.: your driveway and the area where your snow needs to go). This includes extension cords, hoses, bikes, toys, and garden decorations. Ensure there’s at least 12 feet of clearance under any basketball nets or hoops hanging over the driveway. If that’s not possible, please remove them before the first snowstorm.

4. Mark Permanent Obstacles

Use a reflective marker to clearly mark any stationary landscape features like garden beds, steps, or retaining walls. This makes it easier for our team to spot and avoid obstacles, particularly during low visibility conditions.

5. Trim Overhanging Branches

Ensure there is a minimum of 12 feet of clearance under any overhanging branches near your driveway. This allows our snow removal equipment to work safely without hitting trees or branches.

6. Sign Up for Capital Snow Alerts

Opt-in for our Capital Snow Alerts to receive real-time updates during snow events. With notifications, you'll be informed about our team’s arrival times and progress, keeping you in the loop every step of the way.

7. Fill Out the Driver Note Form

If you have specific snow-clearing requests, such as a preferred snow pile location, let us know through our Driver Note Form. We’ll do our best to accommodate your preferences.

Getting these tasks completed before winter sets in ensures your snow removal service will run smoothly and without delays. We’re here to provide top-quality service, and we look forward to working together this winter season!