How to Hire Snow Shoveling Help After a Storm (2025 Guide)

1. 01

   Step 1: Figure out exactly what needs to be cleared

   

   Walk around your property (or look out the window if it's still coming down) and make a list. Most jobs include the driveway from the garage to the street, the front walkway to the door, and steps. But you might also need the back deck cleared, a path to the trash cans, a walkway around the side of the house, or the area in front of your mailbox.

   Measure or estimate the square footage if you can—a standard two-car driveway is about 400–600 square feet, a walkway might be 50–100 square feet. Note how deep the snow is. Six inches of light powder is a completely different job than fourteen inches of wet, heavy snow. Write down where you want the snow piled (usually along the edges of the driveway or lawn, away from drains). This preparation will help you explain the job clearly and get accurate quotes.

2. 02

   Step 2: Decide on timing and budget

   

   Snow shoveling rates vary widely by city and storm severity. In most markets, expect to pay $40–$80 for a standard residential driveway and walkway after a moderate snowfall. Heavy storms, deeper snow (over 12 inches), or larger properties can run $80–$150 or more. Some helpers charge by the hour ($25–$50/hour), others by the job.

   Timing matters. If you need it done by 7 a.m. so you can get to work, you'll likely pay a premium and need to book the night before or very early morning. If you can wait until mid-morning or afternoon, you'll have more options and possibly better rates. Decide what you're willing to spend and how urgent it is. During big storms, good helpers get booked fast—sometimes within an hour of the snow stopping.

3. 03

   Step 3: Find and compare local helpers

   

   You have several options. You can ask neighbors for recommendations—often someone on your street already has a regular snow shoveler. You can check community Facebook groups or Nextdoor. Or you can use an app like Lumo, where local workers list yard work services including snow removal. The advantage of an app is that you can see ratings, reviews from other customers, and communicate details directly in the app.

   Look for helpers with recent snow-removal reviews, clear communication, and reasonable rates. Read the reviews carefully—do past customers mention the worker showing up on time, doing a thorough job, and clearing snow all the way to bare pavement? Avoid anyone who won't answer basic questions about their experience or availability. Compare at least two or three options if time allows.

4. 04

   Step 4: Communicate the job details clearly

   

   Once you've picked a helper, send a message (or call) with specifics. Tell them:

   • Your address and any parking instructions
   • Exactly what needs clearing (driveway, front walk, steps, mailbox area, etc.)
   • Approximate depth of snow
   • Where to pile the snow
   • Any obstacles or hazards (buried decorations, invisible curbs, low-hanging branches)
   • When you need it done
   • Whether you'll be home or if they should text you when finished

   Ask if they'll bring their own shovel or if you need to provide one. Confirm the price before they start. If you're using an app, get the agreement in writing through the in-app messaging so there's no confusion later. Good communication now prevents problems and ensures the job gets done the way you want.

5. 05

   Step 5: Prepare for the worker's arrival

   

   Make the job easier and safer for the person you hired. If you're home, turn on outdoor lights if it's early morning or evening. Make sure any gates are unlocked. Move cars out of the driveway if possible, or let the worker know which areas to avoid. If you have a dog, keep it inside.

   If you won't be home, decide how payment will work. With an app like Lumo, payment is automatic and secure through the app once the job is marked complete. If you're paying cash or Venmo, arrange to leave it in an agreed spot (taped inside the storm door, for example) or pay when you return. Some customers like to leave out a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate as a courtesy, especially in brutal cold. It's a small gesture that's usually appreciated.

6. 06

   Step 6: Check the work and handle payment

   

   When the worker finishes, take a look at the job. The driveway and walks should be cleared to bare pavement (or as close as possible with ice underneath). Edges should be neat, snow piled where you asked, and steps swept clean. If you're using an app, the worker may send a photo when they finish.

   If something was missed or not done to your expectations, address it politely right away—most professionals will happily touch up a spot. Once you're satisfied, complete the payment. Many customers add a tip for good work, especially in harsh conditions; $5–$10 on a $50 job is common, more for larger jobs. Finally, leave a rating and review. This helps the worker get more customers and helps other neighbors find reliable help. If the person did great work, save their contact information for the next storm.

Photos are illustrative. Service prices are typical ranges and vary by city. How we write our guides.