Before the Snow Flies: Who Is Responsible for Snow and Ice?

As Colorado communities enter October, now is a good time for HOA and condominium boards to review their snow and ice removal procedures—before the first storm puts them to the test.

Start with something simple: make sure everyone knows who is responsible for what. Depending on the community, the association may maintain sidewalks, stairs, parking lots, private streets, and other common areas, while owners may be responsible for individual driveways or walkways. Those responsibilities should be clearly understood by the board, management, vendors, and residents.

Boards should also review their snow-removal contracts. When does the contractor respond? Is there a minimum snowfall requirement? Who handles ice that develops after snow has been cleared? Are return visits included when melting snow refreezes overnight? Consider providing ice melt in known hazardous areas and encourage homeowners to be part of the solution.

Documentation matters too. Keeping records of when snow was removed, when ice melt was applied, and when problem areas were reported can be valuable if someone is injured and later alleges the association failed to maintain the property.

Finally, walk the community before winter. Look for areas where drainage causes water to collect on sidewalks or parking lots. Those spots may become recurring ice hazards once temperatures drop.

Snow is unavoidable in Colorado. Many of the problems that come with it aren't. A little planning now can help reduce slip-and-fall injuries, liability claims, and frantic phone calls after the first storm.