New Jersey winters can be beautiful, but for commercial property owners, they also bring a serious set of responsibilities and potential liability. Snow and ice accumulation don’t just create inconvenience; they create risk. Slippery walkways, parking lots, and entryways can quickly lead to injuries, lawsuits, and lost business revenue.
If you own or manage a commercial property—such as a shopping center, retail space, office building, warehouse, office park, or apartment complex—it’s critical to understand your legal obligations when it comes to snow and ice removal.
Commercial Property Owners Have a Legal Duty
Under New Jersey law, commercial property owners are expected to keep their premises safe and free of snow and ice. That includes sidewalks, entrances, and any other areas used by the public, tenants, or employees. Failing to remove snow and ice in a timely and effective way can result in:
- Personal injury lawsuits
- Municipal fines
- Reputational damage and business interruption
Courts in New Jersey have consistently held that commercial property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent hazards caused by snow and ice. Even if a town doesn’t have strict snow removal rules, you can still be found negligent if someone gets hurt.
Local Ordinances Matter, But Timing Does Too
Every town or city in New Jersey has its own rules, but many require sidewalks and other public-facing areas to be cleared within 8 to 24 hours after a storm ends. Here are a few examples:
- Jersey City: Must be cleared within 8 hours
- Newark: Within 12 hours
- Woodbridge: Requires a 3-foot-wide path
Even if you comply with local ordinances, you could still be liable if the snow or ice creates a dangerous condition that isn’t addressed promptly. For example, if a walkway becomes icy again after being partially cleared, you’re expected to follow up and keep it safe.
That’s why many commercial property managers choose to work with a professional snow removal service that can respond quickly, document service times, and ensure compliance.
Penalties for Not Acting Fast Enough
When snow removal is neglected, the consequences can add up quickly:
- Fines from the municipality, ranging from $25 to $1,000, depending on the violation
- Injury claims if someone slips and falls on your property
- Cleanup fees if the town clears the snow for you and charges you afterward (some even place a lien on the property)
In addition, if a tenant, employee, or visitor is injured, the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and legal fees can be substantial.
The “Reasonable” Standard: What It Means for Your Business
New Jersey courts use a “reasonable care” standard to determine whether a commercial property owner is liable. They determine whether a commercial property owner is liable for injuries sustained by someone (like a customer or visitor) due to unsafe or hazardous conditions on the property, such as icy sidewalks, wet floors, broken stairs, poor lighting, or other dangerous conditions. That means:
- You should be monitoring weather conditions and planning accordingly
- Snow and ice should be cleared promptly and thoroughly
- You must use salt or ice melt where appropriate
- You should inspect and maintain high-traffic areas consistently during storms
Hiring a reliable snow removal company shows that you’re taking reasonable action and can help protect you legally if an incident does occur.
Why Snow & Ice Removal Documentation Matters
In the event of a claim, being able to prove that you took action is key. Royal Maintenance Group provides detailed service logs that include:
- Time and date of service
- Areas cleared and treated
- Materials used (e.g., salt, brine, or sand)
- Photos, if needed, for documentation
This record can make all the difference if you ever need to defend your property’s condition in court.
Protect Your Property and Your Business
Keeping your commercial property safe during the winter isn’t just about shoveling snow—it’s about protecting your employees, customers, and reputation.
At Royal Maintenance Group, we work with businesses across New Jersey to deliver fast, reliable snow and ice removal. From 24/7 monitoring to same-day service during major storms, our team helps you stay compliant and protected all winter long.
If you’re looking for dependable commercial snow removal in New Jersey, get in touch with Royal Maintenance Group today. Let us handle the snow, so you can focus on running your business.