What’s wrong with this picture?

A.) Anything more than ½ inch differential settlement or a ½-inch crack in a sidewalk or driveway should be repaired or replaced by a qualified concrete contractor to eliminate the trip hazard.
B.) This is a terrific spot for bicycle tricks or bird baths.
C.) The cracks and settlement are not large enough to cause concern. Clean out the loose rocks and it will be fine.
D.) This much deterioration indicates the sidewalk should have never been there in the first place. Remove and re-sod.

The correct answer is A.) Anything more than ½ inch differential settlement or a ½-inch crack in a sidewalk or driveway should be repaired or replaced by a qualified concrete contractor to eliminate the trip hazard.

Be advised

Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a property owner when it comes to sidewalks and vegetation in the right-of-way is important. The right-of-way refers to property adjacent to a road or other thoroughfare where people have the right to travel. These areas can be roads, sidewalks or alleys and generally connect with residential and commercial properties. They are unmarked except during road repairs. These right-of-ways may be owned by a city, other municipality or part of another tax-levying body, such as an improvement district.

Property owners should contact the appropriate city department when a concern occurs in the right-of-way. This might include cracking and heaving of sidewalks and driveways, or a noticeably diseased tree. Driveway issues may indicate a problem with waterlines or other utilities under the surface. Trees can potentially be treated if a problem is detected in time or removed to prevent the spread of disease.

Being aware of your rights and responsibilities in regards to the right-of-way near your property can be helpful as you prepare to buy or sell. A little time spent researching these issues can allow you to be prepared for maintenance and replacement costs.

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