Are sidewalk repairs my responsibility? Here’s what to know
When you notice a crack in the sidewalk in front of your house, what should you do? This is a common question from Waterstone residents, especially as the seasons change and sidewalks are subject to pressure from tree roots, water expansion, and other natural forces.
You may be surprised to learn that in Carmel, sidewalk repair is the responsibility of property owners, not the homeowners association or the city.
When it is simply age-related deterioration, normal wear and tear, or damage from private contractor activity, sidewalk maintenance is the homeowner’s responsibility to make repairs that meet city standards.
Luckily, the Carmel City Council has a fund to help residents pay for sidewalk repairs.
Established in 2020, the Sidewalk Repair Grant is administered by the Carmel Department of Community Services along with the Carmel Street Department and Carmel City Engineer. The grant is intended to help with maintenance of neighborhood sidewalks that are next to homeowner property.
The grant assists with the expense of repair or replacement of sidewalks. Removal of trees that are located on private property and are affecting sidewalks is also covered. Reimbursements of up to 50% of the project cost, up to $3,000, are available.
The cost of sidewalk grinding—where irregularities can be eliminated through mechanical means—may also be reimbursed.
Other requirements of the program include the following:
The property owner must own and occupy the home.
There must be three quotes for the project in the application.
The City of Carmel has established a website with an online application for the Sidewalk Repair Grant. It includes an explanation of how to apply and the overall process. Property owners are asked to refrain from working on a project before reimbursement approval.
For more information, contact David Littlejohn at dlittlejohn@carmel.in.gov, who is the point person for administering and processing applications.
Still have questions? Visit https://www.carmel.in.gov/government/departments-services/community-services/sidewalk-repair-grant.
