The simplest maintenance of your property could save you from being sued for negligence.
Carpets (especially on steps) should be immediately repaired as they present a trip hazard.
Sidewalk cracks, fissures, etc. are clearly an accident waiting to occur. Bear in mind that members of the public use your sidewalk and you have a legal duty to maintain such areas (in New York City if you are the owner of a commercial property, a Three or More Family Dwelling, a school, etc).
Broken pipes, toilets, hot water heaters also can expose visitors to water and thus being a slip hazard.
Lastly, keep your frontage free of snow and ice after storms. Obviously, the hazards of precipitation are the most common of accidents on sidewalk areas.
A small investment in repairs and maintenance can prevent the stress and potential out of pocket loss in the future.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall, trip and fall, or other similar accidents, please contact the Law Office of Charles DeStefano.