Who’s Responsible for Snow Removal in Chilliwack?

Understanding Your Obligations as a Homeowner, Tenant, or Property Manager

When winter hits Chilliwack, Abbotsford, and the Fraser Valley, the first snowfall often brings confusion about who’s responsible for snow removal. Are you supposed to clear your sidewalk, or does your landlord handle it? What about common areas in townhouses or condo complexes? Knowing the rules can protect you from costly fines and prevent slip-and-fall accidents on your property.

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Single-Family Rentals

In most single-family rental agreements, tenants are responsible for clearing driveways and sidewalks, while landlords must ensure snow removal is completed promptly and safely. It’s the landlord’s job to make expectations clear in the lease, and in some cases, provide tools or incentives to help tenants handle snow efficiently.

To avoid disputes, property owners in Chilliwack and Abbotsford should outline snow removal duties in writing and confirm that tenants understand local bylaws.

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Multi-Family Properties and Apartment Buildings

For apartment complexes and multi-family properties, property owners or managers are usually responsible for common areas such as parking lots, entryways, and shared sidewalks. Many choose to hire professional snow removal contractors to meet municipal safety standards and ensure compliance with local regulations.

In the Fraser Valley, snow can accumulate quickly, and missing a municipal deadline for clearing can result in fines or complaints. Working with a professional company like Fontaine Landscaping & Snow Services Ltd. ensures the job gets done on time, every time.

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HOA-Managed Communities

In neighbourhoods with Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs), snow removal responsibilities are typically shared:

• The municipality clears public roads.
  
• The HOA handles private roads and shared areas.
  
• Homeowners are responsible for their own driveways and walkways.
  

Most HOA contracts also include a