In order to keep the public safe, New York City law requires a property owner to adequately maintain the sidewalk adjacent to their property at their own cost. Regular inspection and repair of your exterior premises can prevent pedestrian injury and help you avoid high-cost claims.

Why is sidewalk maintenance important?

• New York City administrative code designates that property owners are liable for any personal injuries caused by their failure to maintain reasonably safe sidewalks
• The New York City Department of Transportation may issue violations for areas that have not been repaired
• If timely repairs are not made, injuries are more likely to occur on the premises, leading to claims being made against the building owner

What can you do to mitigate risk?

• Regularly inspect sidewalks and vacant lots to assess their condition; maintain documentation of these inspections and any action taken
• Apply rock salt to sidewalks three hours prior to and throughout a snow or ice storm, and remove snow/ice to prevent a trip and fall
• If you use an outside property management company, ensure that you have a written contract that outlines sidewalk oversight responsibilities
• Use a licensed and insured contractor for all repairs to guarantee the work is done correctly and according to code — make sure that you or your contractor has obtained the necessary city permits for sidewalk repair
• Clear trash, weeds and plant overgrowth from sidewalk cracks and seams

For further information from the New York City Department of Transportation on sidewalk upkeep, including inspections, violations, special circumstances and more, please review the New York City Department of Transportation website.

For other information on slip and fall hazards, please review The Hazard Right Outside Your Door: Preventing a Slip and Fall Injury on Your Property.