Walkway Liability

It may have taken a while to get here, but winter is upon us.  If you are lucky enough to live in a warm climate city, you don’t have to worry about snow removal.  But for the rest of us, winter means investing in a durable pair of boots, warm gloves and a shovel.

Although every city is different, most have an ordinance or code about keeping walkways clear during the winter.  As a property manager or owner, it’s important to stay informed on your city’s policies concerning who is responsible for snow removal, when it has to happen and to what extent.  It’s possible to be held liable if someone slips and falls on your property or a walkway that you are deemed responsible for clearing.  Your city should make this information public and easy to understand.  For instance, the Chicago Department of Transportation has a website, pamphlet and video explaining the importance of snow removal for residents and businesses.  The City of Denver lays out how they enforce their snow removal policies and what their consequences are, while the City of Boston gives clear Do’s and Don’ts.  Visit your city’s website to read about ordinances specific to you.

As timing of snow cleanup is addressed in most ordinances, it’s a good idea to keep salt and a shovel handy at your property when the winter months hit.  Keep a couple snow brushes available for your residents to borrow from the leasing office as well, in case they need to clean off their cars.  Being prepared for a snow storm is half the battle.

What winter precautions do you take at your community?  Do you hire a third party for your snow removal or take care of it yourself?

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