A pre-winter walkthrough of a commercial property.
When the temperature’s still in the 80s, snow might be the last thing on your mind—but for facility managers and property owners, August is actually go-time for preparing your site for winter weather.
At Strategic Grounds Management, we call it the Pre-Winter Walkthrough, and we believe it’s one of the smartest moves you can make to protect your property before the first snowflake falls.
Here’s why:
1. You Can Still Fix Issues Before Snow Season
Come November, time is tight—and frozen ground makes it difficult to correct drainage problems, fix crumbling curbs, or remove obstacles that snow teams can’t see under snow cover. In August, you still have the window to:
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Repair damaged asphalt or uneven sidewalks
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Trim overgrown landscaping blocking access or visibility
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Identify and mark key areas like fire hydrants, drains, or loading docks
Think of it as your opportunity to proactively reduce liability and ensure safe, efficient snow clearing all season long.
2. Vendor Teams Aren’t Yet Overloaded
By late fall, most snow contractors are deep into route planning, finalizing logistics, and managing last-minute requests. But in August? You still have time on your side. Walkthroughs are thorough, schedules are flexible, and your site gets the attention it deserves—without the scramble.
3. You’ll Avoid Surprises on the First Snow Event
A well-executed walkthrough uncovers blind spots before they become winter emergencies. For example:
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Are your priority areas (walkways, ADA ramps, loading zones) clearly defined?
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Is there a designated snow stacking area that won’t block visibility or create runoff hazards?
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Are emergency exits and access paths always reachable—even in heavy snow?
Checking these now means you won’t be caught off guard later.
4. It’s a Great Time to Review & Adjust Your Scope
Your property may have changed since last season—new tenants, modified traffic patterns, or updated landscaping. An August walkthrough lets you:
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Confirm scope of work
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Adjust site maps or snow response zones
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Reassess service level expectations (zero-tolerance, daytime clearing, etc.)
It’s much easier to align expectations and scope now than during a storm.
5. Peace of Mind—and Better Pricing
Early planning often leads to better contract terms, fewer headaches, and less risk of being left without coverage. A walkthrough shows your provider that you’re serious about preparation—and that can translate into better service and possibly better rates.
Let’s Walk Your Site Before Winter Hits
Whether you're managing one location or fifty, a Pre-Winter Walkthrough is your chance to stay ahead of the snow and ensure every inch of your site is winter-ready.
Want to See What’s Covered in a Pre-Winter Walkthrough?
Request our Pre-Inspection Checklist—a helpful tool for identifying site risks and preparing your property before the first snowfall.