Many homeowner liability insurance claims arise from defective sidewalks. Otsego Mutual, as part of its inspection process, makes an attempt to determine if the sidewalks of our insureds need updating or replacing. In some cases the company may require an insured or prospective insured to repair or replace a defective sidewalk.

Although a homeowner may feel their sidewalk is defect free and poses no danger to pedestrians it takes as little as a ½” difference in elevation between one flag and the next to cause a possible tripping hazard.

The following photos show defective sidewalks which are not only unsightly, but could be hazardous to pedestrians:

The best way to prevent sidewalk claims is to eliminate any tripping hazard.

Homeowners should hire a licensed contractor who specializes in sidewalk repair and replacement to perform the needed work. As illustrated below, new sidewalks not only improve the appearance and value of your home but they also eliminate your exposure to sidewalk claims.