A snow removal subcontractor agreement is between a primary contractor and a snow removal or plowing company. The subcontractor is responsible for providing all materials, machinery, and labor necessary for snow plowing or removal services.
When to Use
Landscaping contractors use snow plow subcontractor agreements to hire individuals and companies to plow snow. Since in some localities and states, it only snows heavily once or twice a winter, many landscaping contractors prefer to hire subcontractors rather than buy snow plows and retain long-term staff to operate them.
Hiring Snow Removal (Plow) Subcontractors
Hiring specialized help for snow plowing can be challenging, especially if you’ve never hired one. Keep the following in mind:
Common Types of Snowplows
Snow removal subcontractors use various types of snowplows, including the following:
- Polyethylene plows are resistant to dents and smooth. Because snow runs off the blade easier and they resist corrosion and rust, they tend to have longer lifespans than other plow types.
- Stainless steel plows are corrosion-resistant. Many also consider them to be more visually appealing. However, they are more prone to scratches and dents than polyethylene plows. Any rocks they hit will leave “dings” on the plows. Over time, this can affect the plows’ performance.
- V-plows are the go-to choice after a snowstorm. Subcontractors can set the blades in scoop mode to break dense snow banks.
- Straight plows are easier to operate and typically cost less. They also have longer lifespans due to having fewer moving parts and hinge points than V-blades.
- Box plows or “pushers” are used for commercial and industrial applications. Subcontractors can mount them on tractors for maximum stacking and plowing capability.
Licensing
Many states require snow plowers to have valid commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and snow removal permits. They also need a business license if they operate as a business.
Subcontractors work for themselves. Unlike employees, they are responsible for their insurance, taxes, and tools. Primary contractors are not required to provide subcontractors with employment benefits, such as health insurance and retirement.
What to Include
At a minimum, a snow removal subcontractor agreement should include:
- The full names and addresses of the primary contractor and subcontractor
- The subcontractor’s scope of services
- Compensation
- A payment schedule
- The location of services
- The commencement date
- What the subcontractor is responsible for while performing their services, such as equipment, materials, and travel fees
- Signatures of the primary contractor and subcontractor
It is advisable to detail expenses in the contract, such as ice melt and salting rates, per-inch and per-push rates, as well as the materials and time it will take to get the job done.
Snow Removal Subcontractor Sample
Use our PDF and Word templates to create your own snow removal subcontractor agreement.
