How to Start a Snow Removal Business in Canada

ByMatthew Vallee
snow removal employees

Starting a snow removal business in Canada is a great opportunity to earn income during the winter months. Heavy snowfall is common in many parts of the country. Homeowners and businesses often hire professionals to remove the snow and keep things safe. The frequent need for snow clearing contractors and snow removal services makes this a high-demand industry.

Have you been thinking about starting a snow clearing business? This guide covers how to get started and how Ontario Business Central can help you register or incorporate your business.

Research the Snow Removal Industry

Before launching your snow removal business, it’s essential to understand your local market. Start by identifying your target customers—residential homeowners, property management companies, or clients needing corporate snow removal services. Research the average snow plow removal rates and snow removal rates per square foot to ensure competitive pricing.

Identify gaps in the market. For example, some areas may need more services like 24 hour snow shoveling in Canada. Others may have more snow removal jobs for residential driveways and sidewalks. Check out competitors, such as snow removal companies and snow clearing contractors, to see how your business can stand out.

Creating a Business Plan

A solid business plan will guide your snow clearing companies and help secure funding if needed. A business plan for a snow removal contractor should include:

  • Services Offered: Will you focus on residential areas, or will you provide commercial snow removal for businesses?
  • Pricing Formula: Use a snow removal pricing formula to calculate competitive hourly rates. Research average snow removal rates and factor in costs like labor, equipment, and fuel.
  • Target Clients: Cater to specific needs, such as snow ploughing contracts for long-term clients or charge for snow removal as-needed.
  • Marketing Plan: Options for snow removal advertising include local ads, social media, or a professional website showcasing your services.

Registration & Legal Steps

Understanding how to start a snow removal company begins with registering your business to ensure you operate legally. Here’s how to stay compliant:

  • Register or Incorporate Your Business: Decide whether to start as a Sole Proprietorship, General Partnership or Corporation. Incorporation may be ideal for securing larger snow ploughing contracts with corporate clients. Ontario Business Central offers an easy online portal to register or incorporate your business, saving you time and effort.
  • Set Up Tax Accounts: Register for an HST/GST account with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). If you plan to hire employees, set up a payroll account to manage deductions like CPP, EI, and income tax.
  • Obtain Insurance: Protect your business with general liability insurance to cover slip and fall accidents, property damage, or injuries. Consider equipment insurance for snow blowers and vehicles, and business interruption insurance for unexpected downtime. Comprehensive coverage ensures safety and builds client trust.
  • Contract for Snow Removal Services: A snow removal contract helps balance unexpected winter weather and clear agreements with clients. Business owners should outline services, pricing, and the type of snow removal offered during the winter season. Start by using snow removal contract templates you can find online.

Some cities may require specific licenses for snow clearing businesses. Additionally, completing health and safety training can reduce risks and boost your credibility with potential clients.

Start a Business

Set Up Your Online Presence

In today’s digital age, a strong online presence is important. Start with a website where clients can book services or get estimates for average cost of snow removal. Ontario Business Central can assist with registering a memorable domain name for your business.

Build your site with information about:

  • Services Offered: Focus on options like hand shovels, snow removing machines, or commercial snow throwers.
  • Rates & Contracts: Outline your pricing structure to help clients understand the value of your services.
  • Contact Information: Make it easy for clients to reach you 24/7.

Equipment & Tools

Investing in the right snow removal equipment is critical to your success. Depending on your target clients, you may need:

  • Basic Tools: Hand shovels or snowblowing shovels for small jobs.
  • Professional Equipment: Commercial snow throwers and trucks equipped for snow clearing contractors.
  • Maintenance Plans: Regular service to ensure your equipment performs well during peak demand.

Consider leasing equipment if you’re starting small, or invest in high-quality gear for long-term use. Having the right tools can help you handle varying inches of snow effectively.

Finding Clients

Securing a steady stream of clients is vital for your business. Here’s how you can build your client base:

  • Local Advertising: Use flyers, newspapers, and social media to promote your business.
  • Targeted Marketing: Focus on neighborhoods or businesses needing driveways and walkways cleared.
  • Networking: Partner with landscaping companies or property managers for year-round work.
  • Contracts: Offer snow removal contract samples to establish trust with new clients.

Scaling Your Business

Once you have a steady client base, consider expanding. Ideas to grow your business include:

  • Service Offerings: Add related services like de-icing or vehicle snow cleaning jobs.
  • Technology: Use route-planning apps to optimize efficiency.
  • Hiring: Bring on employees to handle growing demand for snow clearing contracts and larger commercial jobs.
  • Offer Summer Landscaping: Scaling your business can include offering landscaping services during the summer months. Lawn care, garden maintenance, and hardscaping can keep revenue steady year-round. This helps retain clients and maximizes the use of your equipment and workforce during the off-season.

Why Use Ontario Business Central?

Ontario Business Central has over 30 years of experience helping entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Here’s how we can help:

Don’t Wait for Snow to Fall—Start Your Business Today!

Starting a snow removal business in Canada is a great way to help your community and earn a profit. With proper planning, the right tools, and support from Ontario Business Central, you can build a business that thrives even in harsh winters. Take the first step today by visiting Ontario Business Central to register or incorporate your business.

inquiries@ontariobusinesscentral.ca
Toll-Free: 1-800-280-1913
Local: 1-416-599-9009
Fax: 1-866-294-4363
Office Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Monday – Friday E.S.T.

Ontario Business Central Inc. is not a law firm and cannot provide a legal opinion or advice. This information is to assist you in understanding the requirements of registration within the chosen jurisdiction. It is always recommended, when you have legal or accounting questions that you speak to a qualified professional.

Matthew Vallee
Matthew Vallee

Matthew Vallee began his journey with Ontario Business Central in 2022, immersing himself in the company's diverse services, client relationships, and business practices from the ground up. This comprehensive understanding has equipped Matthew with the expertise needed to excel in our in-house marketing team. He has significantly influenced the design and user experience of our website, bringing a fresh perspective to our digital presence. Now, as a writer for OBC, Matthew leverages his knowledge to craft insightful content on our services, continuously striving to assist and educate our clients. His natural flair for design, combined with his passion for clear communication, allows Matthew to create engaging visual and written content that resonates with our audience. Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and experiences.