Sidewalk Inspection

Sidewalks abut many urban and suburban properties. Pedestrian falls on sidewalks are often the result of the failure of the abutting property owner or other responsible person to maintain the sidewalk in a reasonably safe condition (e.g., in good repair or free of snow, ice and other materials). Regular sidewalk inspection is an important tool for identifying hazardous conditions that require correction. This checklist highlights areas that should be considered when inspecting existing sidewalks for liability concerns.

Sidewalk Construction
Are any of the following construction defects present:

• Missing sidewalk flags?
• Large cracks, missing pieces or other substantial structural defects?
• Improperly sloped flags or pavement?
• Loose or otherwise unstable flags?
• Uneven settlement or heaving?
• Raised surface impediments (e.g., sewer drain plugs or improperly set manways and junction boxes)?
• Hazardous conditions (e.g., excessive deflection, change in surface texture or lack of structural integrity) caused by cellar doors, gratings or other flush-set items?
• Hazardous conditions created by improper sidewalk repairs?

Temporary Hazards
Are any of the following temporary hazardous conditions present:

• Puddled water?
• Snow and ice?
• Sand, dirt or mud?
• Leaves, fallen branches or twigs?
• Oil, grease or other foreign substance?
• Construction barricades or scaffolding?

• Are curb edges clearly marked?
• Are curb heights excessive?
• Are ramps and other accessible sidewalk features sloped properly?
• Do bicycle racks, planters, retail displays or other man-made objects obstruct pedestrian traffic?
• Do tree limbs or other overhanging objects pose a substantial hazard to pedestrians?

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