Sidewalks are owned by the NYC government, and they are free to use by the public. Maintaining them for optimal safety and compliance with city standards is property owners’ responsibility, but in some cases it can vary.
Who is Responsible for Repairs in NYC?
Property owners are responsible to timely fix sidewalks and avoid trip and fall injuries, legal lawsuits, DOT violations, and property lien fines. Common damages that require your attention include cracks, uneven flags, or uplifts due to tree root invasion, etc.
The Department of Transportation is responsible for sidewalk inspection. In case they identify any damages to the surface, they will send you a violation notice. After receiving the notice, you have 75 days to make the repairs and avoid unnecessary issues.
When Are You Eligible for Free Sidewalk Repairs?
If you are a low-income property owner or your sidewalks have been damaged due to utility construction or tree root invasion, you can get repair assistance.
DOT Inspection Assistance
DOT provides free inspections of your residential and commercial sidewalks. Simply call 311 to have a DOT inspector inspect damages.
Trees and Sidewalks Program
If sidewalk issues are caused by tree roots, property owners can apply for the Trees and Sidewalks program under the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). NYC doesn't charge owners of one, two, or three family properties (Tax Class 1) for damages caused by a city tree or tree roots.
How to Apply?
Visit the DPR to request an inspection, which will help identify your eligibility for the program. If you are eligible, the department will financially assist you with the repairs.
Sidewalk Repair Payment Plan
If you have received a bill for sidewalk repairs by the DOT’s management unit, you can apply for the payment plan so that the amount you owe can be paid over time instead of all at once.
To be eligible:
1. The property must be a one- to six-family home and have an assessed value of $30,000 or less.
2. Sidewalk repair charges must be more than $250 but less than $5000.
3. You must file the payment plan application with the Department of Finance within one year of entry
Utility Damages Assistance
If a sidewalk gets damaged by a utility company, they might reimburse you for the repairs. The damages must be directly linked to utility operations, like trenching or digging. Moreover, you must show your property taxes or income limits to avail the financial assistance.
Get in touch with the utility company and make the claim with the respective department.
What Happens If You Don't Repair Your Sidewalk?
Neglecting sidewalk repairs after receiving violation notice may have serious repercussions. If property owners are unable to make the repairs within 75 days, DOT will fix it for them and send the bill.
There will be a monetary lien on the property and interest added to the total amount if the repair bill is not paid within 90 days.
Furthermore, neglecting sidewalk damages may result in trip and fall mishaps or injuries for which the homeowner may be held accountable. It emphasizes how crucial prompt repair is to abiding by municipal laws, safeguarding pedestrians, and avoiding any legal problems.
Conclusion
Although the city of New York owns the sidewalks, the responsibility for their upkeep is on the owners of the properties. By being aware of your responsibilities and taking advantage of the financial assistance offered by the city, you can efficiently handle the repairs.
For quick repairs, hiring a qualified sidewalk contractor is an efficient choice. With their years of knowledge, professional experience, and use of high-quality material, they provide services that survive the test of time.
