HOA Snow Removal Responsibilities For The HOA And Owners

For many communities, HOA snow removal is a critical service, especially during winter. When snow and ice accumulate, safety becomes a major concern for residents and the board. With proper snow removal, board members can ensure that roads, sidewalks, and common areas remain clear. However, who is responsible for snow removal in the first place?

The Importance of HOA Snow Removal

Winter is often associated with cozy nights with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire. However, while you may be comfortable indoors, snow and ice can accumulate outdoors. This can create a dangerous space for residents in an HOA community. Snow and ice can block roads and driveways, making it difficult for people and vehicles to get through.

Worse yet, ice can make surfaces very slippery. You can try to walk upright, but ice on sidewalks and walkways can quickly bring you down. Snow and ice can contribute to property damage, injury, and liability for the HOA and its residents when left on the ground.

Who Is Responsible for HOA Snow Removal?

Snow removal in HOA communities typically involves several layers of responsibility. Depending on state laws and the governing documents, three key players exist: the local government, the HOA, and the homeowners.

Local Government Responsibilities

In some communities, local governments may take on specific snow removal responsibilities. More often than not, the city or local government is responsible for removing snow and ice on public roads and streets. Typically, the Department of Transportation shoulders this obligation.

However, this usually only applies to public roads and streets. As such, if you have a gated community, the responsibility for snow removal will generally lie on the HOA’s shoulders. This is because gated communities have privately owned streets, so the local government no longer has jurisdiction over them.

However, services may be limited to the larger roads depending on the local government. Therefore, if your HOA has smaller roads that are not typically accessed by the general public, they may not be addressed.

HOA Responsibilities

The HOA snow removal policy typically outlines the association’s duties when clearing snow. Associations are responsible for maintaining common areas. These can include private streets, shared parking areas, sidewalks, and any other spaces all residents use. Common area maintenance usually covers snow removal. As such, the HOA is responsible for snow removal for these spaces.

Many HOAs hire contractors to perform snow removal services. The HOA’s policy will generally specify when and how often snow is removed. For example, the policy may state that snow will be cleared after reaching a certain depth, such as 2 or 3 inches. Additionally, it may detail which areas receive priority, like roads and walkways leading to common facilities.

Because snow removal policies can change from one community to another, it’s best to check your bylaws and CC&Rs to understand your own.

Homeowner Responsibilities

While the HOA takes care of common areas, homeowners are usually responsible for their own driveways, walkways, and other private areas. Snow removal responsibilities can vary as well, depending on the HOA. However, you will typically find these responsibilities outlined within your governing documents as well.

For most HOAs, homeowners must clear snow from their driveways, personal walkways, and front steps. When you fail, the HOA can slap you with a violation and a fine. As such, it’s important for you to remember your obligations and adhere to them to prevent violations. Furthermore, doing so will help prevent accidents and maintain a nice appearance.

Understanding the HOA Snow Removal Contract

An HOA snow removal contract with a vendor typically outlines several important factors, including the following:

When snow removal will take place
The timing (how long after snowfall)
Specific practices the contractor will follow

One key part of the contract is the “trigger,” which defines the depth of snow required to initiate snow removal. For example, if the contract has a 2-inch trigger, the contractor will only come to clear snow once it has reached that depth.

Timing is also important. The contract may specify that snow removal must be completed within hours after the snow stops falling. This helps the HOA ensure safety and accessibility as soon as possible.

Additionally, contracts will cover which areas need to be cleared and in what order. Typically, priority extends to major roads and walkways leading to common areas. After that, the focus shifts to secondary streets and parking areas. However, this can still vary depending on the agreement.

Setting Expectations With Homeowners

The HOA board must maintain open communication with homeowners. The board should clearly inform all residents of its snow removal policy and differentiate between the HOA’s and homeowners’ responsibilities regarding snow removal.

It is also a good idea to outline the terms of the snow removal contract. This way, residents can set their expectations regarding timing and coverage. This will also minimize the number of potential complaints or requests the board gets. If residents know that snow removal can only start 6 hours after snowfall, they won’t bombard the HOA board with calls while it’s still snowing.

Do Fees Cover HOA Snow Removal?

Homeowners must pay regular fees to the HOA. These fees cover several operating expenses, including snow removal. However, just because homeowners pay dues for snow removal doesn’t mean they should expect a contractor to clear their driveways.

You should know that your dues go toward the HOA’s expenses. As such, the snow removal you pay for in HOA dues is for snow removal in common areas. If you wish to remove snow from your driveway or front steps, hire a pro or do it yourself.

Who Is Responsible for Condo Association Snow Removal?

Condo associations work similarly to homeowners associations, but there are a few key differences. Because condo associations typically manage more common areas, the association often takes on more of the snow removal responsibilities.

However, the condo association’s snow removal policy should outline the same things. This includes the triggers for calling the contractor and what responsibilities condo owners have when removing snow. However, condo buildings typically have units, so unit owners don’t have driveways to shovel. Owners may still need to clear snow from balconies or private patios.

The Final Word

Understanding the ins and outs of HOA snow removal is crucial for any homeowner or board member. If you have questions about snow removal in your community, it’s best to refer to your governing documents or ask your HOA board. Ultimately, snow removal is essential, so make sure to fulfill your obligations.

Clark Simson Miller offers expert HOA management services to community associations. Call us today at 865.315.7505 or contact us online to learn more!

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HOA Snow Removal Responsibilities For The HOA And Homeowners