Metro Snow & Ice Management

Snow Removal
Ottawa ON K2G 0B3
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Reviews for Metro Snow & Ice Management

Average customer rating:
5.2 10 (438 reviews)

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Private User
Private User
Private User reviews Ottawa, ON
0/10

Horrible service, nobody showed up in 48 hours. It was a big mistake to sign up this company this year.

It has been 2 days but they haven't yet come to clean our area for any of the paid customers. They are not picking up calls or replying to messages. Please note that this service has recently been amalgamated with another group called Appleseed that was bankrupt a few years ago. We have reported to CBC Ottawa.

Approximate cost of services:
$350.00
4 of 4 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful?
Company Response

Wow!
Sir, Appleseed has NEVER been bankrupt! Ive owned it for 25 years and simply changed the name to Metro to be more 'current'.
Please don't spread 'false information' on social media.
Below:
I understand the frustration of every one these reviewers from this first snow event and will answer all these recent reviews from the last storm (the first 'big one' of the season) in a 'common response.
Every one of these reviews likely stems from the same issue:
A driveway not done for too long or quickly and/or 'lack of communication' from the office.
I will address both clearly and honestly below.
Of course after 25 yeas in business I cringe every time we get a poor review.
Not getting cleared in time: (affected 2 areas of 230 areas we service)
Firstly, we messed up on 2 of over 230 routes terribly and I fully own that and apologies for them being missed so late in the storm.
(Ive sent an open email to these areas apologizing as well yesterday and responded personally to at least 90% of emails received on this)
Okay, so here's where things got confused. At the last minute I rearranged some routes in order to get clients done faster and particularly on these 2 routes.
In our 'rush to get out clearing snow' these two Drivers did NOT receive these new Route Lists in there Tractors before heading out.
My mistake, myself and my office staff and Field Managers own this error and apologize for it. An expensive lesson learned for me and it won't happen again. It took quite a while to recognize these two routes weren't being addressed by a tractor.
Again, we apologies for the error.
Second issue: Communications
Almost all of the reviews come from 'first time customers' not used to using a snow service. That's fine as we sign up hundreds of new clients each fall and maybe this is an opportunity for education.
The last 6 weeks I have sent out countless emails to EVERY Metro customer new and old reminding them of the following communication policies:
1) We clearly state upfront and advise clients from the beginning 'we don't return phone calls during storms'. That quite simply is our policy.
Why?
Each storm our phones are 'jammed ' with new people trying to sign up just before and during a storm and as a result we can't always get back to our existing customers. This with over 15 Customer Service Reps there and a very expensive phone system in place.
Or
Frustrated newer clients call the office 5 or 10 times jamming up the phones and mailboxes with messages of 'when are you coming'.
( We DO sent you an Snow Alert Email before and during the storms advising timing AND the tractors even send you an alert when near you!)
No other company in Ottawa does these two things but Metro! Do people read them?
We would spend more time 'taking messages off' and never getting to the issues. It's like pressing the elevator button 10 times. Doesn't make it get there any faster.
2) We have an 'Email Service Issue Ticket" system that works very efficiently and promote and encourage people to use it. Once only!
By one reviewers own admission...."I did over 30 Service tickets'!...that's 29 other people that won't get addressed as we delete her other 29 Service tickets.
So...you Email us ONCE...your 'auto reply' says an email ticket has been created and sent to your Driver. He has it, he knows of it, your CSR person oversights it. No different then Apple, Bell and other larger companies do.
Every Snow Bulletin I send before each storm states......"Click the button below' if there's an issue....it takes you to a 'fast-form' to quickly send your address and issue. This works! Many just don't use it.
Lastly, I personally read and responded to I would guess about 80% of every email received on this issue within about an hour of receiving them. If I missed you I apologize. In cases some people just aren't satisfied until they are told 'what they want to hear', but we do reply and do our best.
Proper Perspective:
There's a reason Metro is the biggest company in Ottawa after 25 years doing residential snow: Reliability
Metro efficiently serviced well over 11,000 customers this first storm with very few complaints through 8 area offices.
We sign up 2000 'new' clients who have never used a Residential clearing service (usually 'just' before a storm) and 'don't know how it works and what to expect'. I get it, and I get the get and frustration that goes with being new. Education of new users is essential and I guess this takes time.
Of 11,000 clients I received about 20 plus 'bad reviews' which after the first storm of the year historically happens, usually from first time frustrated customers.
All this being did, I apologize again and will humbly refund any person who is not happy with their first time, first snow event experience.
I do however hope that most people reading this will keep things in relative perspective and yes, if you come to Metro better understand the methods of communication and 'complaint process' we used to quickly try to address concerns.
I hope this helps.

KEN Dale
President
Metro

HenryNeg in Ottawa
HenryNeg in Ottawa
1 review Ottawa, ON
0/10

No service over last 2 days.

Paid for Metro Snow Removal Service for the first time for winter of 2017. After 2 days of snow, There is no service from the company.
City plowes have gone through. But no Metro even after 48+ hrs.

Commenting on your "So...you Email us ONCE...your 'auto reply' says an email ticket has been created and sent to your Driver".

I never received any email confirmation for my ticket when I emailed you on the day of storm and today (Dec 19), when I sent an email for a refund.

Approximate cost of services:
$397.00
4 of 5 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful?
Company Response

I understand the frustration of every one these reviewers from this first snow event and will answer all these recent reviews from the last storm (the first 'big one' of the season) in a 'common response.
Every one of these reviews likely stems from the same issue:
A driveway not done for too long or quickly and/or 'lack of communication' from the office.
I will address both clearly and honestly below.
Of course after 25 yeas in business I cringe every time we get a poor review.
Not getting cleared in time: (affected 2 areas of 230 areas we service)
Firstly, we messed up on 2 of over 230 routes terribly and I fully own that and apologies for them being missed so late in the storm.
(Ive sent an open email to these areas apologizing as well yesterday and responded personally to at least 90% of emails received on this)
Okay, so here's where things got confused. At the last minute I rearranged some routes in order to get clients done faster and particularly on these 2 routes.
In our 'rush to get out clearing snow' these two Drivers did NOT receive these new Route Lists in there Tractors before heading out.
My mistake, myself and my office staff and Field Managers own this error and apologize for it. An expensive lesson learned for me and it won't happen again. It took quite a while to recognize these two routes weren't being addressed by a tractor.
Again, we apologies for the error.
Second issue: Communications
Almost all of the reviews come from 'first time customers' not used to using a snow service. That's fine as we sign up hundreds of new clients each fall and maybe this is an opportunity for education.
The last 6 weeks I have sent out countless emails to EVERY Metro customer new and old reminding them of the following communication policies:
1) We clearly state upfront and advise clients from the beginning 'we don't return phone calls during storms'. That quite simply is our policy.
Why?
Each storm our phones are 'jammed ' with new people trying to sign up just before and during a storm and as a result we can't always get back to our existing customers. This with over 15 Customer Service Reps there and a very expensive phone system in place.
Or
Frustrated newer clients call the office 5 or 10 times jamming up the phones and mailboxes with messages of 'when are you coming'.
( We DO sent you an Snow Alert Email before and during the storms advising timing AND the tractors even send you an alert when near you!)
No other company in Ottawa does these two things but Metro! Do people read them?
We would spend more time 'taking messages off' and never getting to the issues. It's like pressing the elevator button 10 times. Doesn't make it get there any faster.
2) We have an 'Email Service Issue Ticket" system that works very efficiently and promote and encourage people to use it. Once only!
By one reviewers own admission...."I did over 30 Service tickets'!...that's 29 other people that won't get addressed as we delete her other 29 Service tickets.
So...you Email us ONCE...your 'auto reply' says an email ticket has been created and sent to your Driver. He has it, he knows of it, your CSR person oversights it. No different then Apple, Bell and other larger companies do.
Every Snow Bulletin I send before each storm states......"Click the button below' if there's an issue....it takes you to a 'fast-form' to quickly send your address and issue. This works! Many just don't use it.
Lastly, I personally read and responded to I would guess about 80% of every email received on this issue within about an hour of receiving them. If I missed you I apologize. In cases some people just aren't satisfied until they are told 'what they want to hear', but we do reply and do our best.
Proper Perspective:
There's a reason Metro is the biggest company in Ottawa after 25 years doing residential snow: Reliability
Metro efficiently serviced well over 11,000 customers this first storm with very few complaints through 8 area offices.
We sign up 2000 'new' clients who have never used a Residential clearing service (usually 'just' before a storm) and 'don't know how it works and what to expect'. I get it, and I get the get and frustration that goes with being new. Education of new users is essential and I guess this takes time.
Of 11,000 clients I received about 20 plus 'bad reviews' which after the first storm of the year historically happens, usually from first time frustrated customers.
All this being did, I apologize again and will humbly refund any person who is not happy with their first time, first snow event experience.
I do however hope that most people reading this will keep things in relative perspective and yes, if you come to Metro better understand the methods of communication and 'complaint process' we used to quickly try to address concerns.
I hope this helps.

KEN Dale
President
Metro

Stradwick Ave in Ottawa
Stradwick Ave in Ottawa
1 review Ottawa, ON
0/10

This ridiculous - Metro has become terrible

Stay away from this company. It's now 9 1/2 hours since the city plow went by and still Metro has not come to clean up. I went to their office after 6 hours and the owner Ken asked me to have patience.

These problems are a carry over from last year that was suppose to be fixed with more drivers. I wish I had old Appleseed back they got the job done.

I noticed that all other services on driveways in our area got the job done!

Seriously look around for someone else!!

Approximate cost of services:
$330.00
4 of 4 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful?
Company Response

You wish you had Appleseed back? I 'owned Appleseed" always, changed the name to Metro, so 'Appleseed' really hasn't gone nowhere, just a new name sir.
Below please:
I understand the frustration of every one these reviewers from this first snow event and will answer all these recent reviews from the last storm (the first 'big one' of the season) in a 'common response.
Every one of these reviews likely stems from the same issue:
A driveway not done for too long or quickly and/or 'lack of communication' from the office.
I will address both clearly and honestly below.
Of course after 25 yeas in business I cringe every time we get a poor review.
Not getting cleared in time: (affected 2 areas of 230 areas we service)
Firstly, we messed up on 2 of over 230 routes terribly and I fully own that and apologies for them being missed so late in the storm.
(Ive sent an open email to these areas apologizing as well yesterday and responded personally to at least 90% of emails received on this)
Okay, so here's where things got confused. At the last minute I rearranged some routes in order to get clients done faster and particularly on these 2 routes.
In our 'rush to get out clearing snow' these two Drivers did NOT receive these new Route Lists in there Tractors before heading out.
My mistake, myself and my office staff and Field Managers own this error and apologize for it. An expensive lesson learned for me and it won't happen again. It took quite a while to recognize these two routes weren't being addressed by a tractor.
Again, we apologies for the error.
Second issue: Communications
Almost all of the reviews come from 'first time customers' not used to using a snow service. That's fine as we sign up hundreds of new clients each fall and maybe this is an opportunity for education.
The last 6 weeks I have sent out countless emails to EVERY Metro customer new and old reminding them of the following communication policies:
1) We clearly state upfront and advise clients from the beginning 'we don't return phone calls during storms'. That quite simply is our policy.
Why?
Each storm our phones are 'jammed ' with new people trying to sign up just before and during a storm and as a result we can't always get back to our existing customers. This with over 15 Customer Service Reps there and a very expensive phone system in place.
Or
Frustrated newer clients call the office 5 or 10 times jamming up the phones and mailboxes with messages of 'when are you coming'.
( We DO sent you an Snow Alert Email before and during the storms advising timing AND the tractors even send you an alert when near you!)
No other company in Ottawa does these two things but Metro! Do people read them?
We would spend more time 'taking messages off' and never getting to the issues. It's like pressing the elevator button 10 times. Doesn't make it get there any faster.
2) We have an 'Email Service Issue Ticket" system that works very efficiently and promote and encourage people to use it. Once only!
By one reviewers own admission...."I did over 30 Service tickets'!...that's 29 other people that won't get addressed as we delete her other 29 Service tickets.
So...you Email us ONCE...your 'auto reply' says an email ticket has been created and sent to your Driver. He has it, he knows of it, your CSR person oversights it. No different then Apple, Bell and other larger companies do.
Every Snow Bulletin I send before each storm states......"Click the button below' if there's an issue....it takes you to a 'fast-form' to quickly send your address and issue. This works! Many just don't use it.
Lastly, I personally read and responded to I would guess about 80% of every email received on this issue within about an hour of receiving them. If I missed you I apologize. In cases some people just aren't satisfied until they are told 'what they want to hear', but we do reply and do our best.
Proper Perspective:
There's a reason Metro is the biggest company in Ottawa after 25 years doing residential snow: Reliability
Metro efficiently serviced well over 11,000 customers this first storm with very few complaints through 8 area offices.
We sign up 2000 'new' clients who have never used a Residential clearing service (usually 'just' before a storm) and 'don't know how it works and what to expect'. I get it, and I get the get and frustration that goes with being new. Education of new users is essential and I guess this takes time.
Of 11,000 clients I received about 20 plus 'bad reviews' which after the first storm of the year historically happens, usually from first time frustrated customers.
All this being did, I apologize again and will humbly refund any person who is not happy with their first time, first snow event experience.
I do however hope that most people reading this will keep things in relative perspective and yes, if you come to Metro better understand the methods of communication and 'complaint process' we used to quickly try to address concerns.
I hope this helps.

KEN Dale
President
Metro

Sam in Toronto
Sam in Toronto
1 review Ottawa, ON
0/10

Metro snow removal

It snowed badly since Monday night. Today is Wednesday 4 pm and my driveway is still not cleared.
1. I sent a message online yesterday around 5:30. No one bothered to reply.
2. I called and left 2 messages on their phone for explanation and for someone to call me back and no one bothered.
3. I sent an email and wrote “urgent” in the subject and no one bothered to reply or call me back.
This is the worst service ever. It’s not just about not clearing my driveway, it’s also about the worst customer service. No one is even replying to my messages, voicemail, and email. I have back problems and i had to shovel myself.
I am shocked, and would never recommend them.

Approximate cost of services:
$350.00
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful?
Company Response

I understand the frustration of every one these reviewers from this first snow event and will answer all these recent reviews from the last storm (the first 'big one' of the season) in a 'common response.
Every one of these reviews likely stems from the same issue:
A driveway not done for too long or quickly and/or 'lack of communication' from the office.
I will address both clearly and honestly below.
Of course after 25 yeas in business I cringe every time we get a poor review.
Not getting cleared in time: (affected 2 areas of 230 areas we service)
Firstly, we messed up on 2 of over 230 routes terribly and I fully own that and apologies for them being missed so late in the storm.
(Ive sent an open email to these areas apologizing as well yesterday and responded personally to at least 90% of emails received on this)
Okay, so here's where things got confused. At the last minute I rearranged some routes in order to get clients done faster and particularly on these 2 routes.
In our 'rush to get out clearing snow' these two Drivers did NOT receive these new Route Lists in there Tractors before heading out.
My mistake, myself and my office staff and Field Managers own this error and apologize for it. An expensive lesson learned for me and it won't happen again. It took quite a while to recognize these two routes weren't being addressed by a tractor.
Again, we apologies for the error.
Second issue: Communications
Almost all of the reviews come from 'first time customers' not used to using a snow service. That's fine as we sign up hundreds of new clients each fall and maybe this is an opportunity for education.
The last 6 weeks I have sent out countless emails to EVERY Metro customer new and old reminding them of the following communication policies:
1) We clearly state upfront and advise clients from the beginning 'we don't return phone calls during storms'. That quite simply is our policy.
Why?
Each storm our phones are 'jammed ' with new people trying to sign up just before and during a storm and as a result we can't always get back to our existing customers. This with over 15 Customer Service Reps there and a very expensive phone system in place.
Or
Frustrated newer clients call the office 5 or 10 times jamming up the phones and mailboxes with messages of 'when are you coming'.
( We DO sent you an Snow Alert Email before and during the storms advising timing AND the tractors even send you an alert when near you!)
No other company in Ottawa does these two things but Metro! Do people read them?
We would spend more time 'taking messages off' and never getting to the issues. It's like pressing the elevator button 10 times. Doesn't make it get there any faster.
2) We have an 'Email Service Issue Ticket" system that works very efficiently and promote and encourage people to use it. Once only!
By one reviewers own admission...."I did over 30 Service tickets'!...that's 29 other people that won't get addressed as we delete her other 29 Service tickets.
So...you Email us ONCE...your 'auto reply' says an email ticket has been created and sent to your Driver. He has it, he knows of it, your CSR person oversights it. No different then Apple, Bell and other larger companies do.
Every Snow Bulletin I send before each storm states......"Click the button below' if there's an issue....it takes you to a 'fast-form' to quickly send your address and issue. This works! Many just don't use it.
Lastly, I personally read and responded to I would guess about 80% of every email received on this issue within about an hour of receiving them. If I missed you I apologize. In cases some people just aren't satisfied until they are told 'what they want to hear', but we do reply and do our best.
Proper Perspective:
There's a reason Metro is the biggest company in Ottawa after 25 years doing residential snow: Reliability
Metro efficiently serviced well over 11,000 customers this first storm with very few complaints through 8 area offices.
We sign up 2000 'new' clients who have never used a Residential clearing service (usually 'just' before a storm) and 'don't know how it works and what to expect'. I get it, and I get the get and frustration that goes with being new. Education of new users is essential and I guess this takes time.
Of 11,000 clients I received about 20 plus 'bad reviews' which after the first storm of the year historically happens, usually from first time frustrated customers.
All this being did, I apologize again and will humbly refund any person who is not happy with their first time, first snow event experience.
I do however hope that most people reading this will keep things in relative perspective and yes, if you come to Metro better understand the methods of communication and 'complaint process' we used to quickly try to address concerns.
I hope this helps.

KEN Dale
President
Metro

poor service in Ottawa
poor service in Ottawa
1 review Ottawa, ON
0/10

service

NOT IMPRESSED WITH SERVICE.WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A REAL SNOW STORM COMES ALONG! DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY.First time having someone do my laneway and it was a bad choice of company.After all,it started snowing 36 hrs ago and still no service.

Approximate cost of services:
$350.00
4 of 4 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful?
Company Response

I understand the frustration of every one these reviewers from this first snow event and will answer all these recent reviews from the last storm (the first 'big one' of the season) in a 'common response.
Every one of these reviews likely stems from the same issue:
A driveway not done for too long or quickly and/or 'lack of communication' from the office.
I will address both clearly and honestly below.
Of course after 25 yeas in business I cringe every time we get a poor review.
Not getting cleared in time: (affected 2 areas of 230 areas we service)
Firstly, we messed up on 2 of over 230 routes terribly and I fully own that and apologies for them being missed so late in the storm.
(Ive sent an open email to these areas apologizing as well yesterday and responded personally to at least 90% of emails received on this)
Okay, so here's where things got confused. At the last minute I rearranged some routes in order to get clients done faster and particularly on these 2 routes.
In our 'rush to get out clearing snow' these two Drivers did NOT receive these new Route Lists in there Tractors before heading out.
My mistake, myself and my office staff and Field Managers own this error and apologize for it. An expensive lesson learned for me and it won't happen again. It took quite a while to recognize these two routes weren't being addressed by a tractor.
Again, we apologies for the error.
Second issue: Communications
Almost all of the reviews come from 'first time customers' not used to using a snow service. That's fine as we sign up hundreds of new clients each fall and maybe this is an opportunity for education.
The last 6 weeks I have sent out countless emails to EVERY Metro customer new and old reminding them of the following communication policies:
1) We clearly state upfront and advise clients from the beginning 'we don't return phone calls during storms'. That quite simply is our policy.
Why?
Each storm our phones are 'jammed ' with new people trying to sign up just before and during a storm and as a result we can't always get back to our existing customers. This with over 15 Customer Service Reps there and a very expensive phone system in place.
Or
Frustrated newer clients call the office 5 or 10 times jamming up the phones and mailboxes with messages of 'when are you coming'.
( We DO sent you an Snow Alert Email before and during the storms advising timing AND the tractors even send you an alert when near you!)
No other company in Ottawa does these two things but Metro! Do people read them?
We would spend more time 'taking messages off' and never getting to the issues. It's like pressing the elevator button 10 times. Doesn't make it get there any faster.
2) We have an 'Email Service Issue Ticket" system that works very efficiently and promote and encourage people to use it. Once only!
By one reviewers own admission...."I did over 30 Service tickets'!...that's 29 other people that won't get addressed as we delete her other 29 Service tickets.
So...you Email us ONCE...your 'auto reply' says an email ticket has been created and sent to your Driver. He has it, he knows of it, your CSR person oversights it. No different then Apple, Bell and other larger companies do.
Every Snow Bulletin I send before each storm states......"Click the button below' if there's an issue....it takes you to a 'fast-form' to quickly send your address and issue. This works! Many just don't use it.
Lastly, I personally read and responded to I would guess about 80% of every email received on this issue within about an hour of receiving them. If I missed you I apologize. In cases some people just aren't satisfied until they are told 'what they want to hear', but we do reply and do our best.
Proper Perspective:
There's a reason Metro is the biggest company in Ottawa after 25 years doing residential snow: Reliability
Metro efficiently serviced well over 11,000 customers this first storm with very few complaints through 8 area offices.
We sign up 2000 'new' clients who have never used a Residential clearing service (usually 'just' before a storm) and 'don't know how it works and what to expect'. I get it, and I get the get and frustration that goes with being new. Education of new users is essential and I guess this takes time.
Of 11,000 clients I received about 20 plus 'bad reviews' which after the first storm of the year historically happens, usually from first time frustrated customers.
All this being did, I apologize again and will humbly refund any person who is not happy with their first time, first snow event experience.
I do however hope that most people reading this will keep things in relative perspective and yes, if you come to Metro better understand the methods of communication and 'complaint process' we used to quickly try to address concerns.
I hope this helps.

KEN Dale
President
Metro

Debbie from Ottawa
Debbie from Ottawa
1 review Ottawa, ON
2/10

Poor Service

I bought this service for my daughter and son-in-law for Christmas. What a disappointment! The first time they got an email saying Metro was in the area, nobody came. Hours later somebody did come but it was not done properly. The snow was not cleared from stake to stake as they had been told and the job they did do was sloppy. My daughter had to shovel. NOT ACCEPTABLE!
They are not available on the phone. I would not recommend this company. This was for 16 Laming Avenue in Barrhaven.
Debbie Deacon
613-282-6421

Approximate cost of services:
$395.00
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful?
Company Response

My apologies Debbie,
Even though there is less then 4 cm Ive dispatched my tractors in most areas at 6am this morning to tidy up before Christmas if it doesn't snow before then.
Below;

I understand the frustration of every one these reviewers from this first snow event and will answer all these recent reviews from the last storm (the first 'big one' of the season) in a 'common response.
Every one of these reviews likely stems from the same issue:
A driveway not done for too long or quickly and/or 'lack of communication' from the office.
I will address both clearly and honestly below.
Of course after 25 yeas in business I cringe every time we get a poor review.
Not getting cleared in time: (affected 2 areas of 230 areas we service)
Firstly, we messed up on 2 of over 230 routes terribly and I fully own that and apologies for them being missed so late in the storm.
(Ive sent an open email to these areas apologizing as well yesterday and responded personally to at least 90% of emails received on this)
Okay, so here's where things got confused. At the last minute I rearranged some routes in order to get clients done faster and particularly on these 2 routes.
In our 'rush to get out clearing snow' these two Drivers did NOT receive these new Route Lists in there Tractors before heading out.
My mistake, myself and my office staff and Field Managers own this error and apologize for it. An expensive lesson learned for me and it won't happen again. It took quite a while to recognize these two routes weren't being addressed by a tractor.
Again, we apologies for the error.
Second issue: Communications
Almost all of the reviews come from 'first time customers' not used to using a snow service. That's fine as we sign up hundreds of new clients each fall and maybe this is an opportunity for education.
The last 6 weeks I have sent out countless emails to EVERY Metro customer new and old reminding them of the following communication policies:
1) We clearly state upfront and advise clients from the beginning 'we don't return phone calls during storms'. That quite simply is our policy.
Why?
Each storm our phones are 'jammed ' with new people trying to sign up just before and during a storm and as a result we can't always get back to our existing customers. This with over 15 Customer Service Reps there and a very expensive phone system in place.
Or
Frustrated newer clients call the office 5 or 10 times jamming up the phones and mailboxes with messages of 'when are you coming'.
( We DO sent you an Snow Alert Email before and during the storms advising timing AND the tractors even send you an alert when near you!)
No other company in Ottawa does these two things but Metro! Do people read them?
We would spend more time 'taking messages off' and never getting to the issues. It's like pressing the elevator button 10 times. Doesn't make it get there any faster.
2) We have an 'Email Service Issue Ticket" system that works very efficiently and promote and encourage people to use it. Once only!
By one reviewers own admission...."I did over 30 Service tickets'!...that's 29 other people that won't get addressed as we delete her other 29 Service tickets.
So...you Email us ONCE...your 'auto reply' says an email ticket has been created and sent to your Driver. He has it, he knows of it, your CSR person oversights it. No different then Apple, Bell and other larger companies do.
Every Snow Bulletin I send before each storm states......"Click the button below' if there's an issue....it takes you to a 'fast-form' to quickly send your address and issue. This works! Many just don't use it.
Lastly, I personally read and responded to I would guess about 80% of every email received on this issue within about an hour of receiving them. If I missed you I apologize. In cases some people just aren't satisfied until they are told 'what they want to hear', but we do reply and do our best.
Proper Perspective:
There's a reason Metro is the biggest company in Ottawa after 25 years doing residential snow: Reliability
Metro efficiently serviced well over 11,000 customers this first storm with very few complaints through 8 area offices.
We sign up 2000 'new' clients who have never used a Residential clearing service (usually 'just' before a storm) and 'don't know how it works and what to expect'. I get it, and I get the get and frustration that goes with being new. Education of new users is essential and I guess this takes time.
Of 11,000 clients I received about 20 plus 'bad reviews' which after the first storm of the year historically happens, usually from first time frustrated customers.
All this being did, I apologize again and will humbly refund any person who is not happy with their first time, first snow event experience.
I do however hope that most people reading this will keep things in relative perspective and yes, if you come to Metro better understand the methods of communication and 'complaint process' we used to quickly try to address concerns.
I hope this helps.

KEN Dale
President
Metro

Adena  in Ottawa
Adena in Ottawa
1 review Ottawa, ON
0/10

Snow Removal

I should have known right away this company is unprofessional. I got 3 different quotes, and then they took 395.00 back in November. We had a big snow storm they didn't come at all last night and I thought they would be here by morning. Well they never came. I called numerous times and sent 20 ticket numbers letting them know my driveway was missed, I left 2 voicemail, contacted the owner over FB and not ONE single response. I got so frustrated I drove to there shop and of course a sign on the door "sorry in the field" . I have 2 small children and a family member with a disability. GREAT Service!

Approximate cost of services:
$395.00
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Company Response

I understand the frustration of every one these reviewers from this first snow event and will answer all these recent reviews from the last storm (the first 'big one' of the season) in a 'common response.
Every one of these reviews likely stems from the same issue:
A driveway not done for too long or quickly and/or 'lack of communication' from the office.
I will address both clearly and honestly below.
Of course after 25 yeas in business I cringe every time we get a poor review.
Not getting cleared in time: (affected 2 areas of 230 areas we service)
Firstly, we messed up on 2 of over 230 routes terribly and I fully own that and apologies for them being missed so late in the storm.
(Ive sent an open email to these areas apologizing as well yesterday and responded personally to at least 90% of emails received on this)
Okay, so here's where things got confused. At the last minute I rearranged some routes in order to get clients done faster and particularly on these 2 routes.
In our 'rush to get out clearing snow' these two Drivers did NOT receive these new Route Lists in there Tractors before heading out.
My mistake, myself and my office staff and Field Managers own this error and apologize for it. An expensive lesson learned for me and it won't happen again. It took quite a while to recognize these two routes weren't being addressed by a tractor.
Again, we apologies for the error.
Second issue: Communications
Almost all of the reviews come from 'first time customers' not used to using a snow service. That's fine as we sign up hundreds of new clients each fall and maybe this is an opportunity for education.
The last 6 weeks I have sent out countless emails to EVERY Metro customer new and old reminding them of the following communication policies:
1) We clearly state upfront and advise clients from the beginning 'we don't return phone calls during storms'. That quite simply is our policy.
Why?
Each storm our phones are 'jammed ' with new people trying to sign up just before and during a storm and as a result we can't always get back to our existing customers. This with over 15 Customer Service Reps there and a very expensive phone system in place.
Or
Frustrated newer clients call the office 5 or 10 times jamming up the phones and mailboxes with messages of 'when are you coming'.
( We DO sent you an Snow Alert Email before and during the storms advising timing AND the tractors even send you an alert when near you!)
No other company in Ottawa does these two things but Metro! Do people read them?
We would spend more time 'taking messages off' and never getting to the issues. It's like pressing the elevator button 10 times. Doesn't make it get there any faster.
2) We have an 'Email Service Issue Ticket" system that works very efficiently and promote and encourage people to use it. Once only!
By one reviewers own admission...."I did over 30 Service tickets'!...that's 29 other people that won't get addressed as we delete her other 29 Service tickets.
So...you Email us ONCE...your 'auto reply' says an email ticket has been created and sent to your Driver. He has it, he knows of it, your CSR person oversights it. No different then Apple, Bell and other larger companies do.
Every Snow Bulletin I send before each storm states......"Click the button below' if there's an issue....it takes you to a 'fast-form' to quickly send your address and issue. This works! Many just don't use it.
Lastly, I personally read and responded to I would guess about 80% of every email received on this issue within about an hour of receiving them. If I missed you I apologize. In cases some people just aren't satisfied until they are told 'what they want to hear', but we do reply and do our best.
Proper Perspective:
There's a reason Metro is the biggest company in Ottawa after 25 years doing residential snow: Reliability
Metro efficiently serviced well over 11,000 customers this first storm with very few complaints through 8 area offices.
We sign up 2000 'new' clients who have never used a Residential clearing service (usually 'just' before a storm) and 'don't know how it works and what to expect'. I get it, and I get the get and frustration that goes with being new. Education of new users is essential and I guess this takes time.
Of 11,000 clients I received about 20 plus 'bad reviews' which after the first storm of the year historically happens, usually from first time frustrated customers.
All this being did, I apologize again and will humbly refund any person who is not happy with their first time, first snow event experience.
I do however hope that most people reading this will keep things in relative perspective and yes, if you come to Metro better understand the methods of communication and 'complaint process' we used to quickly try to address concerns.
I hope this helps.

KEN Dale
President
Metro

Prashant Kane in Ottawa
Prashant Kane in Ottawa
1 review Ottawa, ON
0/10

Snow removal

We in barrhaven had our first storm and metro snow has not cleared the snow in my driveway even once in last 4 days. I have sent many emails and left voicemails on their phone and there is no response. I also went to their office on caesar ave this morning at 11AM and their office was closed (conveniently). Many people were waiting outside the office.
Also I have brining contract with them, and last time their truck came and brined only half of my driveway.
This is my first year with Metro and this was the first storm of the season.
I have this feeling that this company is going to give me a lot of trouble this season. I would go with another company next year.
Wonder if I can get my money back so that I can contract another snow removal company.

Approximate cost of services:
$400.00
4 of 4 people found this review helpful.
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Company Response

Thanks for this, let me address each point so the public isn't misguided her please?
1) the office was not 'closed' as a sign clearly stated on the door...staff were working at or 'field office; down the street.
We would be happy to refund your monies as per the contract if that is what you choose to do.
Simply email a
"Refund request' from are website.
Sorry you weren't pleased
Metro Team

Chachi in Ottawa
Chachi in Ottawa
1 review Ottawa, ON
0/10

Snow Removal

So far not impressed...not sure why they have to wait until the city comes by first. Never had that issue before with other companies.
This wasn't even a snow storm...I have patience but 48 hours and not even one pass.

Approximate cost of services:
$400.00
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Company Response

Service was in fact delivered once to clear behind cars and later after the graders went by. We will work to improve as we do each storm.
Thanks
Ken

Jennifer in Ottawa
Jennifer in Ottawa
1 review Ottawa, ON
0/10

snow removal

It has snowed twice, they have been here zero times. "Drivers are tired', "We're waiting for Ottawa plows". Nothing but excuses from this company. They send constant emails about the service they are NOT providing.

Approximate cost of services:
$400.00
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Company Response

Sorry you feel that way Jennifer. Drivers DO get tired, graders ARE late in most areas the first storm. Ive checked the GPS tracking report on both star,s and you in fact were provided clearings within the 'normal thresholds' of mine or any snow company. Things do in fact get faster as everyone settles in (grader drivers as well) so I hope you will be patient as this happens.
Thanks for the feedback'
ken dale

The reviews on this page are the subjective opinion of the Author and not of HomeStars Inc.

More about Metro Snow & Ice Management

WELCOME TO METRO SNOW & ICE MANAGEMENT! Ken Dale, owner of Metro Snow & Ice Management, has over 25 years of experience managing large snowstorms in Ottawa. Ken founded and is past Chairman of OSCA (Ottawa Snow Contractors Association), which is a self governing organization of credible, well established snow ...
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