This article is for you if you live in the Bronx and have recently experienced a sidewalk violation. First, it is important to understand what a violation is and the consequences of not removing it on time.
Deep cracks, potholes, uneven surfaces, or tree root damage on your concrete sidewalks are the most common DOT violations. These damages can occur due to numerous reasons, like extreme weather conditions, water pooling, soil erosion, etc.
As a property owner, you are responsible for fixing these damages. By trusting a professional Sidewalk Repairs Bronx, you can make your sidewalk safe and functional for everyone.
Understanding the Sidewalk Violation
A sidewalk violation occurs when a property owner doesn't meet the rules and regulations set by the Department of Transportation. The New York City government has strict rules when it comes to pedestrian safety. Accidents and injuries might be avoided with a well-maintained sidewalk.
Reasons Why Sidewalk Violations Occur?
Sidewalk damages can occur due to numerous reasons, such as poor installation and maintenance, which can further lead to violations. You can get a violation notice from the DOT due to factors like harsh weather, damaged tree roots, water pooling, cracks and uneven surfaces, potholes, and many more.
According to the DOT, the responsibility of maintaining sidewalks falls on the shoulders of property owners. To avoid fees and other penalties, it is essential for the owner of a property to promptly remove any violations of the sidewalk. In this article, we will discuss the significance of having sidewalks that are free from hazards, as well as the reasons why it is essential to promptly dispose of sidewalk violations in New York City.
What are Some Common Sidewalk Violations in the Bronx?
If you are in the Bronx and you discover a violation of the sidewalk, then you should look for the following defects:
- Sidewalks that have potholes
- Sidewalks that have cracks and bumps
- Sidewalks with tree root damage
- Sidewalks that are shifted or shrinked
- Sidewalks that have tripping hazards
If the problems are not identified, the Department of Transportation (DOT) will send sidewalk inspectors to your home to inspect the sidewalks and issue a violation notice to repair the damaged concrete surface. If the pedestrians are not found, the DOT will not issue the notice.
Consequences of Neglecting Sidewalk Violations
Not fixing violations right away might lead to serious problems. Here are some problems that can happen if you don't fix broken sidewalks:
- Damaged sidewalks might put people's lives at risk.
- Potholes and cracked sidewalks that show signs of water damage are both bad for the look of your home as a whole.
- If a pedestrian trips on your cracked sidewalk, they can sue you.
Procedure for the Removal of Sidewalk Violations
If you are a property owner in New York and get a violation notice, you have 75 days to fix the sidewalk problem The steps you need to take to get rid of a violation are listed below.
Finding a Violation
You might get a "sidewalk violation" notice. There is a chance that the Department of Transportation (DOT) will tell you exactly what is wrong with your pathways and give you time to fix it. People who break the rules about streets need to fix the problems as soon as possible so the violation is not noticed.
Seeking Professional Help
Issues with sidewalks can sometimes need professional help to solve. Property owners can make sure the right steps are taken by talking to sidewalk repair companies or experts who specialize in sidewalk compliance.
Apply for Permit
A sidewalk repair company will get a sidewalk opening permit for you on your behalf to make the possible repairs. It's a good idea to hire a skilled company for many reasons. Their work will keep your sidewalk in good shape after you hire them.
Repair Process
A professional will check out your sidewalk to see the extent of the damage. After taking a look, the professional will either fix the broken sidewalk or replace the whole thing with a new one. It is possible to fix a sidewalk violation in New York City by finding a registered contractor.
Dismissal of Violation
After repairing, a professional will call 311 to ask for a sidewalk dismissal permit, through which DOT will send an inspector to investigate the sidewalk repairs
An expert sidewalk removal company will obtain a sidewalk opening permit on your behalf. Employing a skilled contractor will benefit you in so many ways. After hiring them, you won't have to worry about your sidewalk maintenance.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Violations
To avoid sidewalk violations, there are a lot of things you need to keep in mind. Here are some of them.
Regular Maintenance
Checking your streets regularly can help you find problems before they become violations. If you make an upkeep plan, you can avoid fines.
Quick Repairs
If you find a violation letter or get one, fixing the sidewalks right away can be very important. Putting off repairs could lead to more damage, threats to public safety, and harsher fines.
Keep Track of the Repairs
Keeping repair tracks or records for your sidewalk can show that you are following the rules. The records you keep can help you if you ever need to defend yourself in court
Benefits of Quickly Fixing Problems on Sidewalks
Once you fix the walkways and get rid of the violation, you don't have to worry about anyone getting hurt on your property. There are numerous benefits of getting your sidewalks repaired on time, some of which are given below
- A well-maintained sidewalk increases the property value and curb appeal of your home
- Sidewalks that are in good condition enhance the resale value of your home.
- One of the main benefits of repairing your sidewalks on time is that you are safe from violations.
- Repairing sidewalks on time won't cost as much.
Conclusion
Poorly kept sidewalks not only look bad, but they can also be very dangerous for people walking on them. If someone walks on your broken sidewalk and trips or falls, you will be responsible as the owner of the land. You have to fix problems on the sidewalk within the time limit, whether you find them yourself or get a notice from the city.
Taking care of broken sidewalks and fines not only keeps people safe but also keeps you from being sued. To get more money when you sell your home, you can also pay someone to keep your walkways in good shape.
