Snow Removal in Finland: Who is Responsible?

In January, Riihimäki gets an average of 15-20 snowfalls. After each one, paths need clearing. This is not a suggestion — it is a legal requirement.

Who is legally responsible

In Finland, responsibility for clearing the pavement in front of a property belongs to the property owner or manager. If the pavement is icy and someone falls — the owner is liable.

For tenants: check your contract. Snow clearing is often the landlord's responsibility. If it is not specified — clarify.

Three options

Yourself. A shovel is cheap, but 30-40 minutes after every snowfall. After three storms in a row, that is 2 hours of work in the cold.

Snow blower. A decent one costs 600-1500 euros, plus storage and maintenance. Worth it only for very large areas.

Seasonal service contract. One call in November — no more thinking about snow all winter. We monitor the forecast and come ourselves.

Why a contract beats one-off calls

A single call-out after heavy snow is urgent — everyone calls at the same time. Clients with contracts have priority.

A contract also means a fixed price. Without one, we may be fully booked or apply a premium for urgent work.

Pricing in Riihimäki

Single visit — from €90, depending on the area. Seasonal contract — calculated individually. Best arranged in October-November before the first snow.