Resource

What Renters Need to Know About Snow Removal

Who's Responsible for Shoveling? It's More Complex Than You Think

When renting, you're afforded the luxury of knowing that you can call your landlord if something goes wrong. Ceiling caving in? Pipes burst? You know who to call.

In fact, that's one of many perks for those who rent. The cost of maintaining a property can be expensive, so it's good to know someone is there to help. But what about when you wake up to a couple inches of snow? Who's responsible for clearing that?

Not All Rentals Are Created Equal

The responsibility of shoveling snow may change depending on the place you rent and the rental agreement you signed. We'll break down the 3 most common living situations and give you a general overview of who's in charge of clearing snow and ice.

Townhouses/Single-Family Homes

What Renters Don't Know About Snow Removal

More often than not, if you rent a single-family home, you'll be required to do most of the shoveling and salting when the snow strikes. Check your lease agreement to be sure.

If your home has a driveway and sidewalks, you'll be responsible for clearing these as well as any walkways or steps on the property. Check city ordinances to know how long you have after a snowstorm to shovel – in Pittsburgh it's only 24 hours.

Apartment Complexes

What Renters Don't Know About Snow Removal

Live in a high-rise apartment building or share your walkways with a number of other tenants? Then your landlord is most likely responsible for the snow removal. But don't ever assume anything. Make sure you double-check your lease to see if there are any stipulations.

In some instances, your landlord may have hired an independent company to remove snow from your apartment complex. If you notice the snow hasn't been shoveled, make sure to contact your landlord, so he or she can contact the third-party snow removers.

Nursing Homes/Assisted Living Centers

What Renters Don't Know About Snow Removal

The landlord or property management company is almost always responsible for snow removal at nursing homes and assisted living centers. However, double-check your lease to know exactly who's responsible.

Much like apartment complexes, many nursing homes and assisted living centers will hire third-party snow removal companies to plow, shovel, and salt their walkways and parking lots. If you notice anything not shoveled or slick, bring it to the attention of the property owners right away.

Stuck Holding the Shovel? Use These Tips for Simple Snow Removal

If your lease leaves you holding the shovel for snow and ice, make sure you know how to clear it the right way. Don't waste time and put yourself in danger. Check out these tips to clear your driveways, sidewalks, and walkways with ease.

Shoveling may not be the most fun thing you'll do all day, but with these helpful hints, you'll be done in no time flat.

Injuries From Snow and Ice Can Be Serious

Slips and falls can lead to serious injuries, especially when they're caused by snow and ice. If you've fallen, negligent property owners can be held responsible for your injuries. This is called premises liability.

Injured by a fall on snow or ice? Contact our legal professionals for a free consultation. We can help get you the answers – and the legal help – you need.

Related Case Types

Related Resources

Review my case for free.

Review my case
for free.

An attorney will review your case within 24 hours, and we will reach out with next steps.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.