Property owners are 100% responsible for sidewalk repairs in NYC. Unlike most US cities, where the city is responsible for sidewalk repairs, in NYC, property owners are responsible for maintaining their sidewalks adjacent to their property. As per Section 19-152 of New York City's Administrative Code. (link here)
This includes repairs, removing snow, ice, etc.
Property owners are also potentially liable for any injuries that are caused by a defective sidewalk. This means you need to ensure a safe and trip-free sidewalk to avoid any potential issues. It's best to consult with an attorney to get more info regarding liability and your sidewalk.
If a sidewalk is defective, NYC DOT may issue a notice of sidewalk violation where the city encourages the property owner to make any necessary repairs to a defective sidewalk. If the property owner fails to do so within the deadline, the city will make the repairs on their own, leaving you with a hefty bill.
Yes, you can repair your own sidewalk; however, you need to make sure you apply for a sidewalk repair permit and when repairing, you use quality concrete.
Many times, the ready-mix concrete you find at home improvement stores is a temporary fix and will ultimately break apart leaving you with a cracked sidewalk that is not pleasing to the eye. This catches the attention of the DOT and usually is followed up with a violation notice in your mail.
The best option for repairing a sidewalk in NYC is to consult with a licensed concrete contractor like NYC Sidewalk Repair to make all necessary repairs. Not only will it last you for years, but it'll also give you peace of mind knowing that you don't need to worry about the safety of your sidewalk or a pending violation.
Please give us a call today at 718-301-8242 to speak with us and get your free estimate.
