Homeowners must follow a step-by-step process to apply for this program:
Fill out the application form on the Parks Department’s website or call NYC 311 to make a request.
A certified inspector from the Parks Department will inspect the sidewalk to determine whether the damage was caused by a city tree. The damage within 50 feet around the tree will only consider tree root damage.
After finalizing the inspection and considering the tree as the culprit, the department has set further criteria for properties to determine priority repairs, including:
Additionally, the department evaluates the site and gives it a rating from 1 to 100. The lower your sidewalk rating, the less likely the parks will repair your sidewalk. Even with the severe damage, the property with the highest priority and ratings may still have to wait at least three years to fix the sidewalk.
It is best to repair sidewalks with the help of professionals and licensed contractors instead of waiting so long for free repairs. Hence, you can file a claim against the City Comptroller for reimbursement within 90 days of the repair.
On the other hand, if you are the owner of non-Class 1 properties (other than 1, 2, or 3-family homes) that are not eligible for the Trees and Sidewalk Program, consider repairing your sidewalks through independent contractors. It is the most efficient and quickest way to get rid of the damaged sidewalks.
Following are steps you can take to fix tree root damages:
First, you have to find the contractors that are familiar with the DOT regulations and ADA guidelines for sidewalks. Start by searching the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection database of licensed contractors to find a local verified sidewalk contractor. If you have already hired a contractor, you can check their license status by visiting the NYC official site and filling out an online form that is available on the Business Background Check Page.
Getting a work permit from NYC Parks for repairing the tree root damage within 50 feet of the city tree is necessary. The permit is free of charge, usually issued in 45 days, and is valid for 90 days. It includes inspection, recommended design and guidelines for fixing the damages without hurting the tree. Either you can apply for the required permit by yourself, or the contractor you hire can also get permits on your behalf.
The following things must be with you before applying for the permit.
Once the required permits are in your hands, the contractors commence the repairs by following the guidelines written on the permit by the Parks Department to handle the tree without hurting it. After completing the repair process, the parks department will inspect the tree and the repair upon request to find if the repair complies with the permit conditions and preserves the tree’s health.
After performing the repairs, you can file a claim against the City Comptroller within 90 days for reimbursement. You must have the following documents in order to get your expenses back.
NYC Parks has the responsibility to assist property owners in repairing tree root damages and protect the trees from potential damage during the repair process. But due to the limited funding, NYC can address a few sidewalks that come under the radar of the highest-rating. So it is better to seek professional help to fix the tree root damage as early as possible to avoid trip hazards and safety risks for pedestrians. Getting the issues fixed promptly can not only help keep the sidewalks safe and accessible but also prevent you from financial and legal consequences.
Got uneven, cracked, or crumbling sidewalks? Contact our experts and discuss your sidewalk issues. We are only one call away. For a FREE quote or query, call us today at (718) 682-6680 or email us at [email protected].
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