Snow clearing for alpine homes and holiday lets

Permanent residents, holiday home owners who are away, and property managers or holiday let hosts who need access cleared before guests arrive.

A set price per visit or a seasonal contract per property. Property managers can give steady repeat work, and callout rates apply after heavy falls.

• Physical fitness and comfort working in the cold
• Reliable early starts
• Safe use of small machinery
• Clear communication with owners who are often away

• Work is limited to alpine areas and depends on how much snow falls each season, so income can vary a lot
• Public liability insurance, and check if your policy covers slips on areas you have treated
• Check with your local council about rules for working in snow zones and home-based business approval
• Cold, early starts and heavy lifting carry injury risk, so plan breaks and use the right technique
• Check with the local resort or land manager if any properties are within a managed alpine resort area

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on whether you use shovels only or add a walk-behind snow blower, plus grit or salt and insurance.

Check public liability insurance, including whether it covers slips on areas you have treated. Check council rules for working in snow zones and home-based business approval, and check with the resort or land manager if properties are in a managed alpine resort.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how much snow falls each season and how many properties you service. Income can vary a lot because the work is seasonal and limited to alpine areas.