Tripped Up by Tree Roots? Fixing Sidewalk Damage in New York City

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Have you ever been strolling down a New York City sidewalk and suddenly found yourself face-to-face with a concrete obstacle caused by pesky tree roots? Unfortunately, this is a common sight in our city, and it can pose a safety hazard for pedestrians. But fear not! There are ways to fix this issue with the help of expert Sidewalk repair contractors NYC, and depending on the situation, you might even be eligible for the help of professionals.

Who’s Responsible for sidewalk repair?

The first step is to determine who’s responsible for the repair. This depends on whether the tree is on public or private property:

• Private Tree: If the tree is growing on your property, you are responsible for fixing the sidewalk damage it causes. However, you can apply for assistance from the NYC Parks Trees & Sidewalks Program.
• City Tree: If the tree belongs to the city, NYC Parks is responsible for repairs. But they have specific criteria for eligibility, so you’ll need to report the damage through their website.

Fixing the Sidewalk:

Once you know who’s responsible, you can explore different repair options:

1. Trees & Sidewalks Program: This program offers free sidewalk repairs for eligible homeowners (one-, two-, or three-family homes not used commercially) with severe damage caused by tree roots. It’s a great option if you qualify, but keep in mind that repairs prioritise safety and may not restore the sidewalk to its original condition.
2. Independent Repair: If you’re not eligible for the program or prefer a different approach, you can hire a licensed contractor experienced in tree-related repairs. Remember to obtain the necessary permits from NYC Parks and the Department of Transportation (DOT) before starting any work.

Here are some common repair methods:

• Grinding: This involves shaving down the lifted concrete to match the lower level.
• Ramping: This method creates a smooth slope over the roots using asphalt or concrete.
• Tree Root Barriers: These barriers redirect root growth away from the sidewalk, but require professional assessment and installation.
• Sidewalk Reconstruction: This involves removing and replacing the entire sidewalk section, potentially using root-friendly materials.

Important Things to Remember:

• Permits: Always obtain the necessary permits before starting any repairs.
• Tree Health: Consider the health of the tree and avoid causing excessive damage to its roots.
• Future Growth: Choose repair methods that accommodate future root growth to prevent future problems.
• Cost: The cost of repairs depends on the chosen method, contractor, and damage severity.