Stay In Touch:
Articles

Sidewalk Maintenance

Perhaps the first consideration when evaluating sidewalks in an association is who has responsibility. It could be the declarant (builder or developer) prior to transition. It could be the association if the sidewalks are on common areas. It could be a municipality if the streets are public streets. Lastly it may be the homeowner. The board should review the governing documents to determine the association’s responsibilities and if homeowners share any responsibilities.

Sidewalks are likely to be a greater issue for condominium and townhome communities, particularly with private streets and parking lots. However, even in single-family communities, sidewalks to pools, clubhouses, tennis courts, etc., and other common areas will likely be the responsibility of the association. The board should refer to the plat or the officially recorded map to determine if the sidewalks are considered common area.

Once the association determines its responsibilities for sidewalks, it should develop:

  • A regular inspection and maintenance schedule.
  • A landscape plan that prevents damage from tree roots.
  • A review of liability insurance coverage. Associations have been sued for failure to maintain sidewalks in common areas.
  • Access features, including curb cuts and ramps, that conform to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
  • An operating budget and reserve fund for maintenance and future improvements.
  • A way of communicating any board actions, policies or plans to homeowners.
HOA-USA   Amenities, Insurance

HOA-USA

HOA-USA is dedicated to providing resources that promote a better understanding of townhome, condominium, and single family homeowner associations throughout the United States. All content is completely free, including educational articles, board training videos, directories and much more.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This website contains links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser. The views expressed at, or through, this site from third parties are not necessarily those of HOA-USA. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this site are hereby expressly disclaimed. The content on this posting is provided "as is;" no representations are made that the content is error-free.

Free E-Newsletter Sign Up

The best way to stay informed on proposed legislation, new laws, issues, trends and best practices is through our free e-newsletter.

Add or Update Your Listing in Our Management Company Directory

HOA-USA is pleased to offer a FREE listing for your management company in our state-specific Management Company Directory. This is a single static listing for your state.

Please fill out the form below to be added to the directory, or to update your listing.

The company information you provide will be used solely for the purpose of updating our site, and your personal information will not be shared with anyone.

If you are interested in having your listing be displayed near the top of the page with enhanced contact info and recognition, please inquire about our Partner Program. The HOA-USA Partner Program is an opportunity for companies to market their products and services to the board members of their single family, townhome, and condominium associations.

HOA-USA.com is designed to provide state specific marketing opportunities to our Partners. Four levels of Partnership allow us to provide cost-effective marketing campaigns to companies large and small.

Companies interested in learning more about the HOA-USA Partner Program should inquire in the comments section of the form below or contact a Partner Account Specialist at (919) 798-0813.

Add or Update Your Listing in Our Vendor Directory

HOA-USA is pleased to offer a FREE listing in our state-specific Vendor Directory. This is a static listing in the appropriate region of your state. The Vendor Directory is visited by thousands of board members each month.

Please fill out the form below to be added to the directory, or to update your listing.

The company information you provide will be used solely for the purpose of updating our site, and your personal information will not be shared with anyone.

If you are interested in having your listing link to your website, and be displayed near the top of the page, please inquire about our Partner Programs. The HOA-USA Partner Program is an opportunity for companies to market their products and services to the board members of their single family, townhome, and condominium associations.

HOA-USA.com is designed to provide state specific marketing opportunities to our Partners. 3 levels of Partnership allow us to provide cost-effective marketing campaigns to companies large and small.

Companies interested in learning more about the HOA-USA Partner Program should inquire in the comments section of the form below or contact HOA-USA at 919-459-2859.

FREE Guide to Understanding Homeowners Associations

Fill out the following form to get your FREE Guide