How to Identify and Address Sidewalk Violations on Your Property?

The responsibility for maintaining the walkways often falls on the shoulders of property owners. While maintaining a sidewalk might seem easy, if you don’t know about the potential damages and their impact on pedestrians, you might not be able to make wise decisions.

In NYC, the Department of Transportation is responsible for inspecting damaged sidewalks. In such cases, you might receive a violation notice from them. If you want to avoid the violation notice and ensure pedestrian safety, keep reading this blog.

Sidewalk Repair Contractor is here to help you identify and address sidewalk violations on your property.

Identifying Sidewalk Violations

The first step towards identifying the violations is to become familiar with them. These can vary depending on your location, but some general violations, according to the rules of the Department of Transportation, include:

Cracks and Uneven Surfaces

Over time, many reasons sidewalks can develop cracks, uneven slabs, or become tilted. These pose a tripping hazard for pedestrians, especially those with mobility limitations.

Tree Root Uplift

Tree roots can cause sidewalks to buckle and rise, creating uneven surfaces. While trees provide valuable shade and aesthetics, overgrown roots can become a safety concern.

Missing or Damaged Sidewalk Slabs

The sidewalk slabs are made with materials like concrete or asphalt. If these materials become damaged or missing, it can create tripping hazards.

Improper Drainage

Poor drainage can cause water to pool on the sidewalk, leading to slippery surfaces and the potential for mold growth.

Inspecting Your Sidewalk for Violations

Here is a recommended approach to inspecting your sidewalk for potential violations:

 

• Walk on the Pathway

 

Take a slow walk along your sidewalk, paying close attention to the surface condition. Look for cracks, uneven slabs, raised edges, or any other issues.

 

• Become a Tactile Inspector

 

Don't just rely on sight. Use your feet to feel for any changes in elevation or loose slabs. A sturdy cane can be helpful in this process.

 

• Check the Drainage

 

Observe how water flows after a rain. Are there any puddles forming on the sidewalk? Is the water draining properly towards the street or designated drainage areas?

 

• Look for Root Growth

 

Are there any cracks that seem to radiate outward from nearby trees? Is the sidewalk visibly pushed upwards by tree roots?

 

• Consult Local Regulations

 

While the inspection above will help identify potential issues, familiarize yourself with your specific city or municipality's sidewalk maintenance regulations. These regulations will outline the specific dimensions, slopes, and materials required for sidewalks.

Addressing Sidewalk Violations

If you identify a potential violation, you must follow the step by step process to get the violation fixed in an efficient way.

Contact Local Authorities: Call 311 to report sidewalk violations to the Department of Transportation. They can confirm the violation and provide information on the repair process.

Consider a Re-Inspection: In some cases, you might have received a violation in error. Contact your NYC DOT to inquire about requesting a re-inspection.

Obtain Permits and Choose a Contractor: Depending on the severity of the repairs, you might need a permit from the NYC DOT. You can either get the permit yourself or hire a qualified and licensed sidewalk repair contractor. 

Schedule Repairs and Inspections: Once you have chosen a contractor, schedule the repairs. Don't forget to inform NYC DOT about the scheduled repair date. They will typically send an inspector to verify the completion and dismiss the violation.

Additional Steps to Take While Removing

• Regular inspections can help identify minor issues before they become major problems or potential violations.
• Take pictures of the sidewalk damage before, during, and after repairs. Keep copies of invoices and permits for your records.
• If tree roots are causing the violation, consider consulting NYC Parks to get proper trimming or root management.
• If the sidewalk violation extends to your neighbor's property, initiate communication to discuss shared responsibility for repairs.

Conclusion

By familiarizing yourself with potential sidewalk violations and taking a proactive approach to repairs, you can ensure a smooth and hazard-free walkway for all. Remember, addressing the issues before they become extensive can save you from a potential headache and keep your sidewalks violation-free.

One thing to keep in mind is that hiring professional contractors for potential sidewalk damages is always a good option, as they not only have years of experience but are also familiar with NYC DOT regulations. For efficient repairs, find the best local contractors in NYC and get your sidewalks fixed today.