Keeping Winter Walkways Safe: How Tenants, Landlords, and Property Managers Can Work Together 

Insights for Owners and Tenants
This series provides valuable tips and insights for both property owners and tenants to enhance their living and management experiences.

1. Regular Snow and Ice Removal

• • Landlord and Property Manager Responsibilities: It is important for landlords and property managers to arrange timely and thorough snow and ice removal in high-traffic areas, including entrances, sidewalks, and parking lots. Clear communication to tenants about snow removal schedules is essential, helping tenants know when areas will be treated. Aim to clear pathways early in the morning and immediately following significant snowfall to keep common areas as safe as possible. Additionally, landlords and property managers should check with municipal bylaws to ensure they are meeting local snow removal requirements, as some municipalities set specific timeframes for clearing snow from public walkways and sidewalks.

• • Tenant Responsibilities: Tenants can contribute to winter safety by keeping their personal walkways and steps free of ice and snow, if applicable. If you notice that a common area is icy or has not been adequately cleared, please report it to your landlord or property manager. By reporting these areas promptly, you help maintain a safe environment for everyone.

2. Use of De-Icing Products

• • Landlord and Property Manager Responsibilities: Applying sand, salt, or other de-icing agents to walkways, steps, and entryways is essential for reducing slip hazards in winter. Many landlords or property managers keep a supply of de-icer near main entrances so maintenance teams and staff can reapply it throughout the day as needed. Regularly checking and replenishing de-icer supplies helps keep surfaces safer during the winter season.
  • Tenant Responsibilities: Tenants can assist in maintaining safe walkways by applying small amounts of sand or salt on icy patches as they come and go, if de-icer is available. Even a small scoop can make a significant difference in preventing slips and falls, contributing to the safety of the entire community.

3. Clear Communication Channels

• • Landlord and Property Manager Responsibilities: Clear and open communication is essential for winter safety, particularly during inclement weather. Landlords and property managers can keep tenants informed by sending regular winter updates through email, posting notices in common areas, or using signage to remind tenants to report any icy patches or hazards. Frequent communication helps everyone stay aware and prepared.
  • Tenant Responsibilities: Tenants play a valuable role in winter safety by promptly alerting landlords, property managers or maintenance teams to any areas that may need additional quickly and keep common areas safe for everyone.

4. Proper Footwear for Safety

• • Landlord and Property Manager Responsibilities: Landlords and property managers can remind tenants of the importance of safe winter footwear through signage or newsletters as temperatures drop and conditions become more hazardous.
  • Tenant Responsibilities: Wearing boots or shoes with good tread can help reduce the risk of slips and falls. Encourage family members and visitors to choose footwear that’s suitable for icy conditions.

5. Adequate Lighting

• • Landlord and Property Manager Responsibilities: Good lighting is essential for visibility and safety during winter, especially as daylight hours shorten. Landlords and property managers should regularly check all exterior lighting around common areas, parking lots, and pathways to ensure that fixtures are working properly and providing sufficient lighting.
  • Tenant Responsibilities: Tenants can help by reporting any lights that are out or dim so that they can be repaired.

6. Mats and Rugs at Entrances

• • Landlord and Property Manager Responsibilities: Placing absorbent mats at entryways helps to prevent water, snow, and ice from spreading indoors, and reducing the risk of slippery surfaces. Regularly replacing or cleaning these mats throughout the season prevents moisture buildup and helps maintain safety in high-traffic areas.
  • Tenant Responsibilities: Tenants can support this effort by thoroughly wiping their shoes on entrance mats, minimizing the amount of water and snow tracked indoors.

7. Seasonal Safety Reminders

• • Landlord and Property Manager Responsibilities: Consistent reminders about winter safety practices help reinforce these guidelines throughout the season. A periodic email or newsletter with winter safety tips keeps everyone informed and aware of how to stay safe in shared spaces.
  • Tenant Responsibilities: Tenants can support community safety by sharing these reminders with family members, visitors, and neighbours. Reinforcing winter safety habits helps everyone navigate shared areas with caution and awareness.

By working together landlords, property managers, and tenants can help keep shared spaces safe and comfortable throughout the winter months. At Satellite Community Homes, we understand the importance of a proactive approach to winter safety. If you have any questions or additional strategies for enhancing winter safety in housing communities, we encourage you to share—your insights contribute to safer and more welcoming environments for everyone.