Some companies might request a down payment before the first snow removal. Most companies request 2 post-dated checks (for example, the first dated November 15 and the second one, February 15).

If possible, avoid providing a down payment before the snow removal company has started providing the services, or only provide a very small sum. This will avoid potential problems if the company closes its doors or if they do not provide the services that were agreed upon.

It is best to schedule monthly payments on dates agreed upon with the snow removal company.

Paying an itinerant merchant

Did you sign a contract with an itinerant merchant? If so, it means that they solicited your business outside of their actual offices. They might, for example, have come to your home without your requesting it.

This type of snow removal company or individual cannot request or accept a down payment within the 10 days that follow the signing of the contract. Indeed, this delay is designed to allow you to cancel the contract, if desired. You should therefore refuse to allow the snow removal services to start before the end of that 10-day period to avoid any conflict.

Payments made over 2 months in advance

If the snow removal company requests a payment to be made over 2 months in advance:

• check whether they have a trust account;

• write down the check payable to “[name of the merchant] in trust.”

A trust account will protect you in case the merchant goes bankrupt or closes its doors. The amounts deposited in such an account could serve as damages if something happens.

Some merchants are exempt from having to have this type of account. Refer to our tool Get information about a merchant to know whether a merchant benefits from such an exemption.

Knowing the rules if a contract is concluded by phone or online

If you concluded your contract by phone or online, the snow removal company can request or accept an advance payment in only one case: if you pay by credit card.

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