To Our HOA Boards and Commercial Property Managers,

Thank you for partnering with Richards Lawn Services for your winter snow-plowing and salting services for the 2025–2026 season. We understand the operational importance of keeping your roadways, parking lots, walkways, and common areas safe and accessible, and we appreciate the trust you place in our team.

Storm Performance Overview

The first storm of the season presented rapidly shifting conditions. Initial snowfall was light, but it quickly transitioned into extremely wet, dense accumulation. This sudden change caused heavy clumping, increased blade resistance, and reduced push distance. In several locations, snow compacted into large clumps or “snow boulders” that required additional time and multiple passes to clear effectively.

The second storm was particularly severe—comparable to historical storms from the 1970s and 1980s. Due to the moisture content and density of the snow, we saw:

  • Significant strain on trucks and plow mounts
  • Reduced clearing efficiency
  • Required cooling breaks of 35–45 minutes to prevent equipment overheating
  • Windrows created by municipal plows that exceeded the height of our truck blades

Despite these conditions, all HOA roads, commercial lots, and most residential properties received at least two passes during the storm to maintain access where possible.

Operational Adjustments for 2025–2026

Based on the extreme weather patterns this season, we have modified our operational structure for greater efficiency and safety:

Previous Setup:

  • 1 plow driver + 1 sidewalk shoveler per truck

Current Setup:

  • 1 dedicated plow driver per truck
  • Separate, specialized sidewalk crew following behind
  • Increased coordination between plow and sidewalk teams

This adjustment allows trucks to maintain continuous plow movement without delays caused by manual shoveling, while ensuring sidewalks, walkways, and garage fronts receive thorough attention from a dedicated team.

Route Scheduling and Service Timelines

Many HOAs and commercial clients inquire about timing. The following outline reflects industry best practices and our operational standards:

  1. During the Storm:
    • We plow during active storms only when snowfall rates exceed what could be managed efficiently afterward.
    • Wet, heavy snow requires slower push speeds and more frequent repositioning, which can double clearing time compared to average storms.
  2. Post-Storm Operations:
    • Once snowfall has stopped, we typically have up to 24 hours to service all contracted properties.
    • Under average conditions, full completion takes 9–12 hours.
    • Under severe or wet-snow conditions, time lines can extend to 18–24 hours.
  3. Service Order:
    • Commercial lots and HOA’s are prioritized first due to safety, traffic flow, and accessibility requirements.
    • Residential routes follow once roadways within HOA’s are opened and safe for truck access.
    • After completing all properties, we perform:
      • HOA system wide touch-up checks
      • Secondary passes on commercial lots when cars are moved
      • Final residential quality checks

Some areas with restricted angles, limited stacking space, or narrow access may require strategic snow placement. We prioritize maximizing roadway width, parking accessibility, and emergency vehicle clearance.

Equipment Strain and Service Delays

This season’s heavy, high-moisture snow has resulted in significant mechanical stress. We have already experienced two truck failures directly related to the extreme conditions. While we maintain backups and field-service support, equipment strain can occasionally impact time lines.

Communication and Follow-Up

If any portion of an HOA roadway, common area, sidewalk, or commercial lot requires additional attention, please notify us immediately. Our crews will respond as quickly as possible. Timely communication ensures we can address any missed spots before they refreeze or become hazardous.

Our Commitment

We remain dedicated to meeting the safety and accessibility standards expected by HOA boards, property managers, and commercial site operators. Extreme weather can challenge even the most prepared operations, but our team is committed to providing reliable, professional service throughout every storm event.

Thank you again for choosing Richards Lawn Services as your winter maintenance partner.

Richard Hardesty

Richards Lawn Services