Blog Archives - VS Landscape Group

How Much Snow Has Ottawa Got This Winter?

Jerome Bass — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 23:36:57 +0000

If you’re wondering how much snow Ottawa has received this winter, here are the official numbers.

VS Landscape Group tracks winter precipitation using data from Environment Canada’s Ottawa Airport (YOW) weather station, the standard reference point used in most commercial snow and ice management contracts across Ottawa.

Total Snowfall in Ottawa Since November 2025

As of February 16, 2026, Ottawa has received: 192.1 cm of snowfall

This total reflects official snowfall accumulation recorded at the YOW airport weather station.

Monthly Snowfall Breakdown:

November 2025: 32.5 cm
December 2025: 54.6 cm
January 2026: 81.6 cm
February 2026 (to date): 23.6 cm

January was the heaviest snowfall month so far this winter.

Total Snowfall Since November 2025: 192.1 cm

Monthly Rainfall Breakdown:

November 2025: 65.6 mm
December 2025: 45.5 mm
January 2026: 51.1 mm
February 2026 (to date): 15.6 mm

Total Rainfall Since November 2025: 177.8 mm

How Rainfall Impacts Snow Contracts

In most commercial winter maintenance contracts, rainfall is converted toward snowfall caps using the following industry standard:

Every 10 mm of rain = 1 cm of snow:

Using that formula: 177.8 mm of rain ≈ 17.8 cm of snow equivalent

When added to recorded snowfall:

192.1 cm snowfall + 17.8 cm rain equivalent

209.9 cm total snow-equivalent accumulation

⚠️ Note: Conversion formulas may vary depending on your contract terms.

Why This Matters for Commercial Property Owners

Tracking snowfall and rainfall accurately is critical for:

Seasonal snow cap contracts
Budget forecasting
Service frequency expectations
Salt and material planning
Transparent reporting

Using official Environment Canada YOW data ensures consistency and avoids disputes when calculating seasonal totals.

We’ll Continue Updating This Page

This blog was last updated on February 16 2026, and we will continue updating it throughout the winter season.

If you manage commercial properties in Ottawa and would like help understanding how snowfall totals impact your contracts, VS Landscape Group is happy to assist.

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Green Roof Maintenance: Keeping Ottawa’s Rooftops Healthy and Beautiful

Jerome Bass — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:58:43 +0000

At VS Landscape Group, we specialize in keeping commercial properties looking their best — from the ground level all the way up to the rooftop. One of the most rewarding parts of our work is helping clients bring their green roofs back to life after they’ve become overgrown or neglected.

Before: When a Green Roof Gets Out of Control

Earlier this season, an Ottawa hospital reached out with a rooftop that had gotten completely out of hand. What started as a low-maintenance green roof had turned into a dense patch of tall grass, weeds, and invasive plants that were beginning to choke out the intended vegetation. Beyond the visual impact, this overgrowth also risked damaging the roof membrane and blocking drains — a costly issue waiting to happen.

After: Restored, Refreshed, and Ready for the Season

Our team arrived with specialized equipment designed for rooftop maintenance. We carefully trimmed, cleared, and reshaped the vegetation — restoring the roof’s appearance, drainage flow, and health. Within a single day, the roof looked brand new again.

After the initial cleanup, we set up a bi-monthly maintenance schedule to keep the roof in top shape year-round. This ongoing care ensures that the vegetation stays balanced, drains remain open, and the building continues to enjoy the insulation and sustainability benefits of a thriving green roof.

Serving Clients Across Eastern Ontario

VS Landscape Group proudly provides commercial grounds and green roof maintenance services across Ottawa, Kingston, Brockville, Cornwall, and Eastern Ontario. Whether it’s a full restoration or regular upkeep, our team has the experience, equipment, and safety certifications to handle all types of rooftop landscapes.

If your green roof has grown out of control, we can help bring it back to life — and keep it that way.

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How Our Landscape Teams Keep High-Traffic Properties Safe & Clean

Jerome Bass — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 13:30:39 +0000

For commercial property owners and managers in Ottawa, curb appeal isn’t just about looks—it’s about safety, professionalism, and creating a welcoming environment.

High-traffic properties like shopping plazas, office complexes, and mixed-use spaces demand constant attention to stay clean, functional, and safe for tenants and visitors.

We specialize in maintaining these demanding landscape spaces year-round.

Here’s how our teams keep Ottawa’s busiest commercial properties in top shape.

1. Routine Cleaning & Debris Removal

Heavy foot and vehicle traffic means litter, dirt, and debris can pile up quickly.

Our crews provide:

Daily or scheduled litter pickup across walkways, parking lots, and green spaces.
Power sweeping for paved areas to eliminate sand, salt, and debris.
Waste station monitoring to keep bins tidy and prevent overflow.

A clean property sends the message that you care about both your tenants and your visitors.

2. Parking Lot & Walkway Maintenance

Safe access is a must on high-traffic properties. We handle:

Crack filling and line painting to keep lots functional and professional.
Snow and ice control in winter with plowing, salting, and de-icing.
Trip hazard inspections to catch issues before they become liabilities.

In Ottawa’s climate, proactive maintenance is the best way to prevent accidents and protect your investment.

3. Landscape Care That Impresses

First impressions matter. A well-kept property makes tenants proud and leaves visitors feeling welcome. We provide:

Seasonal planting and flower rotations for year-round colour.
Lawn care, pruning, and tree maintenance to keep green spaces healthy.
Irrigation monitoring so landscapes thrive during Ottawa’s dry summer stretches.

This attention to detail keeps properties both attractive and professional.

4. Seasonal Safety Measures

Ottawa’s four seasons bring unique challenges. Our teams adjust to keep properties safe year-round:

Spring: Sweeping, pressure washing, and repairing winter damage.
Summer: Regular lawn care, litter removal, and water management.
Fall: Leaf cleanup, drain checks, and storm prep.
Winter: Snow clearing, ice control, and slip prevention.

With the right plan, your property stays ready for every season.

5. Proactive Communication & Reporting

High-traffic commercial properties move fast—and so do we. Our supervisors provide:

Detailed service logs after each visit.
Quick reporting of hazards like broken lights, damaged signage, or vandalism.
Responsive communication with property managers to stay ahead of issues.

This proactive approach ensures you’re never caught off guard.

Keeping Ottawa’s Properties Safe, Clean & Professional

We know high-traffic properties require more than basic upkeep—they need consistent, reliable care tailored to the demands of Ottawa’s climate and commercial activity. From parking lots to landscapes, snow clearing to litter control, we deliver safe, clean, and professional spaces that reflect well on your business.

If you’re ready to simplify your property management then contact our Ottawa team today to learn how we can keep your high-traffic property running smoothly year-round.

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How VS Landscape Group Helps Streamline Grounds Maintenance at Commercial Properties

Jerome Bass — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 13:36:33 +0000

Keeping a commercial property looking well-maintained and running at full capacity all year long is not a task for the faint of heart. It requires a team that can carefully plan and then move as a well-oiled machine when a winter storm hits.

In this post, we’ll give an overview of some of the key considerations that help VS Landscape Group deliver exceptional service for commercial clients throughout Ottawa.

Clear Communication

Maintaining a strong working relationship is based on clear, transparent communication. We work hard to make sure that you have clear points of contact and can quickly get responses — whether you’re making an ad hoc request or if a request comes through during a snowstorm.

Our internal communication channels make sure your requests get through to the on-site service team so we can get the job done quickly and efficiently.

We’re always open to feedback that helps us improve our operations.

The Right Equipment for the Job

Year round grounds maintenance at a commercial property requires a lot of machinery and horsepower. We prioritize getting all the right equipment on site so that the service quality is always excellent — and so we don’t risk breakdowns due to second rate machinery.

We’ll carefully go through a full site plan together with your team and identify what equipment is needed.

Experienced & Capable

As the old saying goes, this isn’t our first rodeo. VS Landscape Group has been around for many years and this has given us a lot of well-earned experience. Our team can help identify any gaps in your current year-round outdoor operations plan and anticipate any additional requirements.

With access to a proactive partner that is focused on providing solutions before the problem strikes, you can keep operations running smoothly.

Scalable Solutions

A distinct advantage of having an established landscape property management company like VS is that we are able to quickly scale our operations to meet your needs. We can pull equipment and team members into place quickly so that you have the level of service you require.

Ready to Work Together?

Let’s talk. VS Landscape Group offers landscape solutions tailored to your property’s size, layout, and management needs.

Contact us today to learn more about our landscape work in Ottawa and how we can build a year round grounds management strategy for your business.

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The post How VS Landscape Group Helps Streamline Grounds Maintenance at Commercial Properties appeared first on VS Landscape Group.

Why On-Site Salt Domes Save Money for Large Commercial Sites in Ottawa

Jerome Bass — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 16:53:54 +0000

When managing large commercial properties in Ottawa, one of the smartest investments you can make is an on-site salt dome. Whether you manage a hospital, warehouse, retail center, or multi-building complex, having salt stored directly at your location isn’t just convenient—it can dramatically reduce liability, improve service response times, and lower overall winter maintenance costs.

In this blog, we break down why on-site salt storage makes so much sense for Ottawa commercial snow and ice management, and how VS Landscape Group helps property managers implement these solutions.

Faster Deployment = Fewer Slip-and-Fall Incidents

When a snow or ice event hits, speed is everything. The time it takes for your contractor to load salt at a central depot, drive across town, and finally arrive at your site adds up—and can leave your property vulnerable to:

Slip-and-fall lawsuits
Delayed snow clearing
Unsafe conditions for staff, tenants, or customers

With on-site salt domes, our operators are able to start salting within minutes, reducing the window of liability and maintaining safer conditions 24/7.

As we explain in our blog “Commercial Salting Services in Ottawa: Protect Your Property from Ice Liability”, properly timed and calibrated salt application is the single best way to prevent accidents and protect your reputation.

Real Benefits

Here’s how on-site salt storage leads to real cost savings:

Fewer site visits: Because operators can reapply salt without returning to base, service costs are reduced.

Fewer liabilities: Reducing slip-and-fall incidents minimizes insurance claims and protects against expensive legal fees.

Less salt waste: On-site storage makes it easier to monitor and calibrate usage per event.

Built for Ottawa’s Harsh Winter Conditions

Ottawa winters are unpredictable, and the average seasonal snowfall is rising. As we outlined in our post “Expected Snowfall in Ottawa for Winter 2025/2026”, years like 2023-24 and 2024-25 saw snowfall totals above average. These conditions demand proactive snow removal strategies—and salt domes are a key part of that.

When storms stack up, centralized salt depots can run low or become inaccessible. But with a dome on-site, you’re insulated from delays, shortages, and rising prices.

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Peace of Mind for Property Managers

At VS Landscape Group, we’ve helped our commercial clients save thousands in winter maintenance costs by deploying custom salt dome solutions. We even offer temporary seasonal salt dome setups that can be removed in spring, restoring your parking or staging areas.

Best of all, we pair these setups with:

Calibrated salting equipment (read more here)
$5 million liability insurance (see “Why Insurance Matters for Ottawa Snow Contractors”)
Seasonal snowfall limit contracts to protect your budget (read “Why 254cm is the Limit in Ottawa”)

Salt Domes Are a Smart Addition to Your RFP

If you’re issuing or reviewing an RFP this year, consider including on-site salt storage as a required or recommended component. It could lower your costs, speed up response times, and make your winter operations much smoother.

Need help drafting your scope of work? Check out our blog “How Property Managers Structure Snow Removal RFPs in Ottawa” for a complete guide.

Ready to Save Time and Money This Winter?

Let’s talk. VS Landscape Group offers scalable, cost-effective salt dome solutions tailored to your property’s size, layout, and snow management needs. Whether you’re preparing for a heavy snow season or just looking for better value, we’re here to help you build a safe, efficient winter plan.

Contact us today to learn more about commercial salt domes in Ottawa and how they can fit into your snow and ice management strategy.

Related Reads:

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The post Why On-Site Salt Domes Save Money for Large Commercial Sites in Ottawa appeared first on VS Landscape Group.

Common Landscaping Mistakes Commercial Properties Make (and How to Fix Them)

Jerome Bass — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 16:33:24 +0000

A well-maintained commercial landscape enhances curb appeal, improves safety, and adds value to your property. But too often, we see Ottawa commercial properties making critical landscaping mistakes that cost them in the long run—whether it’s wasted money, poor aesthetics, or liability concerns.

At VS Landscape Group, we specialize in full-service commercial grounds maintenance across Ottawa and surrounding areas. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common landscaping mistakes commercial property managers make—and how to fix them.

Mistake #1: Poor Drainage & Grading

Water pooling near building foundations, parking lots, or walkways is more than just a nuisance—it’s a liability and a maintenance nightmare. Improper grading and lack of drainage planning can lead to:

Soil erosion
Pavement heaving and cracking
Ice buildup in winter
Flooded basements or mechanical rooms

How to Fix It:
Our team provides grading and drainage corrections as part of our landscaping packages. We identify low spots, install proper swales and trenches, and recommend permanent drainage solutions like French drains or catch basins.

Related reading: “Is Your Snow Contractor Clearing Fire Hydrants? They Should Be.” – We talk about how poor grading leads to snowmelt pooling around critical access points.

Mistake #2: Inconsistent Mowing & Lawn Maintenance

Infrequent mowing or letting grass get too long between cuts can damage turf health. Tall grass invites pests, creates seed heads that degrade the look of your lawn, and stresses root systems when cut too aggressively.

How to Fix It:
Our Ottawa commercial lawn care programs include scheduled weekly mowing, string trimming, edging, and debris cleanup. We use sharp blades and mow in alternating patterns to ensure an even, healthy cut every time.

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Mistake #3: Over-Fertilizing or Using the Wrong Products

More isn’t always better. Excessive fertilizer—especially high-nitrogen types—can burn grass, promote shallow root growth, and contaminate stormwater runoff. Similarly, using the wrong weed control products or applying them at the wrong time reduces effectiveness and harms your turf.

How to Fix It:
We use a soil-first approach, testing nutrient levels and customizing treatment plans. Our certified team also handles weed control applications with licensed pesticide applicators to ensure safety and compliance with all Ottawa bylaws.

Mistake #4: Neglecting Seasonal Maintenance

Failing to prep a site for winter—or ignoring spring cleanup—leads to compacted soil, dead spots, excessive thatch, and drainage issues. Forgotten landscape beds and hardscapes can quickly become overgrown and unsightly.

How to Fix It:
We offer full seasonal transition services, including:

Spring cleanup (debris, litter, edging)
Summer lawn and bed maintenance
Fall leaf and bed cleanup
Snow removal and ice control

Learn more:
“Why Snow Hauling Matters for High-Traffic Sites in Ottawa”
“Commercial Salting in Ottawa: Protect Your Property from Ice Liability”

Mistake #5: Ignoring the Impact of Snow & Ice

Your winter operations can affect your summer turf health. Plow damage, heavy salt use, and unmarked curbs all contribute to dead grass, compacted soil, and safety hazards come spring.

How to Fix It:
Our snow teams work hand-in-hand with our landscaping crews. We:

Pre-mark curbs and landscape edges
Use calibrated salters to minimize lawn damage
Include spring repair in our snow contracts

Pro Tip: Bundle Your Services

Hiring one contractor for snow, lawn, irrigation, and landscaping ensures continuity and reduces the risk of these costly mistakes.

At VS Landscape Group, we deliver year-round commercial grounds maintenance in Ottawa, so nothing slips through the cracks between seasons.

Ready to Fix Your Landscape?

If you’ve experienced standing water, dead patches, or inconsistent service—you’re not alone. Most of these common landscaping issues can be fixed with expert guidance and a proactive plan.

Book a free site assessment with VS Landscape Group today, and we’ll show you how to improve your commercial landscape while saving money in the long run.

Related Reads:

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The post Common Landscaping Mistakes Commercial Properties Make (and How to Fix Them) appeared first on VS Landscape Group.

Why Property Managers in Ottawa Are Switching to Full-Service Landscape Contractors

Jerome Bass — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 16:23:57 +0000

Managing a commercial property in Ottawa comes with a long checklist of responsibilities—from maintaining curb appeal in the summer to keeping lots safe and accessible during harsh winter snowstorms. It’s no surprise that more and more property managers in Ottawa are switching to full-service landscape contractors to streamline operations and reduce risk.

At VS Landscape Group, we specialize in bundling year-round services like commercial snow removal, lawn care, and irrigation—and the benefits for property managers are impossible to ignore.

The Benefits of a Full-Service Contractor

Hiring a single contractor to handle everything from spring cleanup to winter ice control offers a range of advantages:

1. Simplified Communication
No more chasing down separate vendors. One point of contact means faster response times, easier scheduling, and clearer accountability.

2. Cost Efficiency
Bundled services often come at a lower combined cost than managing multiple contractors. Plus, it helps you lock in preferred rates and avoid price hikes year to year.

3. Fewer Headaches with Invoicing & Contracts
Consolidate billing under one vendor—streamlining your budgeting and administrative workflow.

4. Better Property Results
With one team overseeing the site year-round, you benefit from continuity, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of your property’s unique needs.

Summer Grounds Maintenance

Our Ottawa commercial grounds maintenance packages include:

Weekly lawn cutting & edging
Seasonal planting and pruning
Hard surface weed control
Fertilization and soil health checks

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Commercial Snow & Ice Management

Winter brings major liability concerns. We offer:

24/7 snow plowing and salting
On-site snow hauling to free up parking
Emergency response for hospitals, retail centers & more
Full compliance with Ottawa’s snow bylaws

Learn more:
“Why Snow Hauling Matters for High-Traffic Sites in Ottawa”
“Commercial Salting in Ottawa: Protect Your Property from Ice Liability”
“Ottawa Snow Bylaws: Fire Hydrant Clearing Explained”

Smart Irrigation Systems

Our irrigation specialists design and install smart watering systems that:

Reduce water waste
Ensure lush lawn growth all season
Use Wi-Fi controls and weather sensors for hands-off automation
Include optional hydroseeding to save money compared to sod

Liability Protection and Insurance

A full-service provider like VS Landscape Group ensures consistency in safety standards, and our $5 million liability coverage applies across all services—whether we’re salting your sidewalks or repairing sprinkler heads.

Year-Round Continuity = Peace of Mind

When one team manages your landscape through all four seasons, you don’t just save money—you gain peace of mind. Our operators know your property, understand your goals, and are accountable from spring to winter and back again.

We’re proud to provide bundled landscape solutions for:

Shopping plazas
Office complexes
Industrial facilities
Medical buildings and essential services
Multi-residential properties

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’re juggling multiple vendors for snow removal, irrigation, and lawn care—it’s time to simplify. Let VS Landscape Group show you what full-service property care looks like. We’re local, responsive, and fully equipped for Ottawa’s demanding seasons.

Request a consultation today to build a custom year-round service package that saves you time, reduces liability, and enhances the value of your commercial property.

Related Reads:

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Is Your Ontario Snow Contractor Clearing Fire Hydrants?

Jerome Bass — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 22:11:33 +0000

Why Should Your Snow Contractor be Clearing Fire Hydrants?

When it comes to commercial snow removal in Ottawa, it’s easy to focus on the big items—plowing, salting, and sidewalk clearing. But one critical area is often overlooked: fire hydrants.

At VS Landscape Group, we treat hydrant access as non-negotiable, and we include it in every one of our essential site snow removal packages. Here’s why your contractor should too—and what it could cost you if they don’t.

Why Fire Hydrants Matter in Winter

In an emergency, seconds count—and blocked or buried hydrants can delay first responders when it matters most. That’s why the City of Ottawa and local fire departments urge property owners to maintain clear access to all hydrants throughout the winter season.

What does this mean for property managers?

Hydrants must be cleared to a minimum 1-metre radius
Direct access paths must be maintained
They must remain visible and accessible at all times, even after overnight storms

Ignoring this isn’t just risky—it can lead to serious liability, especially if your site is high-traffic, multi-tenant, or classified as an essential facility.

The Risk of “It’s Not in the Contract”

Many snow removal contractors in Ottawa fail to include hydrant clearing in their standard scope of work. And if it’s not clearly outlined in your RFP or contract, it may not get done—leaving you, the property manager, responsible in the eyes of the law.

In our related blog, “Snow Plow Damage in Ottawa: Who Pays and How to Prevent It”, we explain how poor documentation and vague scopes can leave property owners footing the bill when something goes wrong.

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What VS Landscape Group Does Differently

At VS Landscape Group, we go beyond the basics. For essential sites like hospitals, multi-unit commercial complexes, and retail plazas, we include:

Hydrant clearing in all essential property maintenance plans
Documented proof of service, with time-stamped photos
$5M in liability insurance and named coverage for every client
24/7 response crews for overnight or unexpected accumulations

We understand the demands of essential facilities, which is why we’re proud to service numerous hospitals and 24/7 operations. For more details, check out our post: “Ottawa Emergency Snow Removal: How We Keep Hospitals Clear 24/7”

How to Include Hydrant Clearing in Your RFP

If you’re building out your next winter maintenance tender, make sure hydrant clearing is a mandatory line item. In our blog on How to Structure a Snow Removal RFP in Ottawa, we outline how to properly scope and price all essential services—including hydrants, sidewalks, and accessible parking.

And while you’re reviewing your contract, don’t forget about seasonal snowfall caps and insurance. These are just as critical to managing winter risk. Here are some helpful blogs on the subject;

Don’t Leave Safety Buried Under The Snow

Snow-covered hydrants may seem like a small oversight, but they represent a massive liability—especially when lives and property are on the line. When you work with VS Landscape Group, you get peace of mind knowing we’re handling every detail, including the ones that most contractors skip.

Let’s talk about your property’s needs. Whether you’re running a high-traffic retail site or managing multiple buildings, we’ll build a winter plan that covers everything—from hydrants to heavy snow hauling.

Ready to face this coming season with confidence?

Don’t let winter slow you down. VS Landscape Group provides reliable, responsive, and professional commercial salting in Ottawa designed to keep your property safe and your liability low.

Related Reads:

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The post Is Your Ontario Snow Contractor Clearing Fire Hydrants? appeared first on VS Landscape Group.

Who’s Responsible for Clearing Sidewalks in Ottawa? A Guide for Property Managers

Jerome Bass — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 21:48:41 +0000

If you’re a property manager in Ottawa, winter means more than snowflakes — it means responsibility. One of the most common questions we hear at VS Landscape Group is: “Who’s responsible for clearing the sidewalks?”

In this guide, we’ll break down the City of Ottawa’s rules vs. property owner responsibilities and how to stay compliant — while protecting your property from liability, snow accumulation overages, and ice-related risks.

What the City of Ottawa Clears

The City of Ottawa provides snow removal and salting for priority sidewalks on a fixed schedule. These are usually:

Downtown core sidewalks
Transit corridors and school routes
Arterial and collector roads

City crews aim to clear sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowfall ends, depending on accumulation and priority.

But here’s the kicker: The majority of sidewalks in front of private properties — especially in commercial and suburban areas — are the responsibility of the property owner.

What You Must Clear as a Property Manager

As a commercial or residential property manager in Ottawa, you’re typically responsible for:

Sidewalks adjacent to your property
Internal walkways and entrances
Accessible parking spaces
Fire routes and hydrant access

City by-laws state that sidewalks must be cleared of snow and ice within 6 hours of the end of a snowfall — failure to comply could result in:

City crews doing it and billing you
Fines or penalties
Increased liability if an accident occurs

For more on the risk of winter liability, see our blog:
“Why Insurance Matters in Ottawa Snow Removal Contracts”

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Salting is Just as Important as Plowing

Clearing snow is one thing. Preventing ice buildup is another.

As we cover in our Commercial Salting Services blog, properly calibrated salt application reduces slip-and-fall risks and can help ensure compliance with insurance and city standards.

At VS Landscape Group, we use calibrated salters and offer real-time tracking and proof-of-service reports — especially critical if you’re ever asked to verify sidewalk maintenance.

What About Snowfall Limits?

Don’t forget about the seasonal snowfall limit built into most snow contracts. In Ottawa, it’s common to set a cap at 254cm — beyond which overage charges apply. If you’re managing large frontages with public sidewalks, this could become a surprise cost.

We break this down in our blog:
“Why 254cm is the Snowfall Limit in Ottawa”

How VS Landscape Group Helps You Stay Covered

At VS Landscape Group, we make sidewalk maintenance seamless. When we partner with property managers, we:

Provide 24/7 coverage with automatic dispatch
Include sidewalk snow removal and salting in our commercial snow plans
Carry $5 million in liability insurance and list you on the Certificate of Insurance
Help you avoid non-compliance with municipal snow clearing by-laws

Final Thoughts: Know Your Responsibility, Stay Protected

Ottawa winters can be harsh — but your compliance and safety strategy doesn’t have to be.

If you’re an Ottawa property manager, make sure your sidewalks, hydrant access, and accessible routes are included in your snow removal scope of work. Don’t rely on the city. And don’t risk an injury claim or fine by being caught off guard.

Reach out to VS Landscape Group today to learn how we can help you create a reliable, safe, and fully documented snow and ice control plan this winter.

Ready to face this coming season with confidence?

Don’t let winter slow you down. VS Landscape Group provides reliable, responsive, and professional commercial salting in Ottawa designed to keep your property safe and your liability low.

Related Reads:

Contact Us

The post Who’s Responsible for Clearing Sidewalks in Ottawa? A Guide for Property Managers appeared first on VS Landscape Group.

Commercial Salting Services in Ottawa: Protect Your Property from Ice Liability

Jerome Bass — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 21:40:05 +0000

Ice is a major liability for your property.

When it comes to commercial property management in Ottawa, ice isn’t just a nuisance — it’s a major liability. Slip-and-fall accidents are one of the most common and costly winter incidents, and without the right prevention strategy, your business could be exposed to legal and financial risk.

That’s where professional salting services from VS Landscape Group come in.

Why Commercial Salting Matters

Ottawa winters bring a mix of snow, freezing rain, and drastic temperature swings. Even after a plow pass, ice can quickly reform, especially in the early morning or overnight.

A reliable salting plan ensures that:
Walkways and entrances remain safe for staff, tenants, and customers
Parking lots don’t become skating rinks during freeze-thaw cycles
You’re protected from liability in the event of a fall
Emergency access routes stay open and hazard-free

Liability and Insurance Implications

Slip-and-fall claims are serious — and expensive. Failing to maintain clear and safe surfaces can result in:

Injury claims
Increased insurance premiums
Legal battles
Damaged reputation

Many Ottawa property owners are now requiring certified commercial salting as part of their insurance policies or RFPs. Having a contractor with documented service logs and calibrated equipment gives you proof of service — and peace of mind.

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Precision Salting with Calibrated Equipment

At VS Landscape Group, our salting equipment is calibrated annually to ensure precise application rates. This means:

No wasted salt
Even coverage across all surfaces
Reduced environmental impact
Maximum traction where it’s needed most

Our fleet of trucks, each equipped with GPS tracking and automated salters, delivers service reports that document time of service, material usage, and full route coverage.

24/7 Response — Even During Ice Storms

Black ice doesn’t wait for business hours — and neither do we.

VS Landscape Group offers round-the-clock salting services in Ottawa, with proactive dispatch based on:

Weather forecasts
On-site conditions
Freeze alerts
Site-specific requirements

Who Needs Commercial Salting Services?

If your property has vehicle or pedestrian traffic, you need professional ice control. We provide service to:

Retail plazas and commercial buildings
Medical facilities and health clinics
Office parks and industrial yards
Multi-unit residential and condo developments
Government and institutional sites

Safety, Compliance, and Accountability

With $5 million in liability insurance, WSIB clearance, and a dedicated snow team, VS Landscape Group takes commercial salting seriously.

Our documentation and proactive approach mean you’re always covered — legally and physically — when winter hits.

Ready to De-Ice with Confidence?

Don’t let winter slow you down. VS Landscape Group provides reliable, responsive, and professional commercial salting in Ottawa designed to keep your property safe and your liability low.

Related Reads:

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