The Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York is warning St. Lawrence County homeowners to do their homework before hiring a snow removal service to avoid scammers and incompetent operators.

By doing so, you will know to be on the lookout for prices too good to be true, fly-by-night operations, and other red flags, BBB says.

BBB urges everyone to keep these important tips in mind when hiring snow removal services:

• Look for experience. Each home or business is different and experience does matter. Check to see if everyone who works for the company you hire has relevant experience, not just the owner.

• Ask about scheduling. Some contractors do snowplowing as a part-time job, and this may affect their availability to clear a driveway when needed. Always check to see if there is a schedule for snow removal.

• Get more than one estimate. BBB recommends you get at least three estimates before making a decision. Ask for all the costs upfront to avoid any surprises. Keep in mind the lowest price doesn’t always mean the best service.

• Ask about insurance. Who is responsible for damage of your home or grounds during the winter season? Find out what type of insurance coverage potential contractors provide, as well as homeowner’s insurance. Does a municipality require the contractor to have a permit or license? Before you hire anyone, make some calls to find out and then check to make sure the contractor is appropriately covered.

• Review the contract. Never settle for a verbal agreement. Contractors should always provide a written contract. A representative should come out to look at the property and make notes about services requested and potential obstacles. Get all of the details in writing and always read anything before you sign. Understand cancellation fees and any extra charges that may apply.

• Split the payments. Find out how the company expects payment. Most snow plow contracts take two forms: pay per plowing or pay per season. If you choose a pay per season contract in a light snow season, the contractor is not obligated to refund any money. If you’re expected to pay all fees upfront – consider it a red flag. Many contractors will split fees into two or three payments – one at the beginning, middle and end of the season.

• Beware of scams. Remember even if a business appears to be reliable, it does not mean it is. When a company is reluctant to answer questions, won’t supply proper information or unwilling to offer references – there could be cause for concern.

• Check with us. BBB provides background information, complaint history and resolution to complaints in our Business Reviews. Check out snow removal services at bbb.org.

• Report a scam. If you spot a business or offer that sounds like an illegal scheme or fraud, tell us about it through BBB’s Scam Tracker. BBB’s Scam Tracker provides information on trending scams in our area.

In the past year, people searched for snow plow contractors over 4,600 times at BBB.org. BBB worked to resolve 128 complaints from consumers about snowplow contractors.