Learn · Commercial

Is a Sunken Sidewalk a Liability for My Business?

The short answer

Yes, it can be. Uneven walks and entries are a common cause of trip-and-fall claims, and on accessible routes the 2010 ADA Standards limit vertical changes in level to 1/4 inch, require a bevel up to 1/2 inch, and treat anything higher as a ramp. Lifting the low slab removes the hazard quickly.

By Rob Diederich, owner · Updated October 2026

4 min read

What the ADA standard says

Change in level	2010 ADA Standards (accessible routes)
Up to 1/4 inch	May be vertical
1/4 to 1/2 inch	Must be beveled, no steeper than 1:2
Over 1/2 inch	Treated as a ramp

Source: 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, section 303. This is general information, not legal advice.

Why lifting is usually the best fix

It removes the change in level instead of working around it.
Most areas are back in use the same day.
There's no demolition, hauling or pour, so it's far cheaper than replacing sections.
It fixes drainage too, so you're not left with an icy low spot every winter.

The sunken section rises to meet its neighbor, so the trip lip and the puddle are gone. Drag the slider.

Make it routine

A spring walkthrough with photos and measurements gives you a record and a priced list. See commercial concrete leveling.

Sources

2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (section 303, changes in level)

Keep reading

Businesses · HOAs · Property managers

Commercial & HOA

Trip hazards at entries and sidewalks, settled slabs and floors for businesses, HOAs and property managers in Green Bay. Fast lifts, minimal downtime.

Concrete leveling · Sidewalks & walkways

Sidewalk & Walkway Leveling

Uneven sidewalk or front walk? We lift sunken sections to remove trip hazards and stop water from pooling. Homes, businesses and HOAs in Green Bay.

Protect the repair

Joint & Crack Sealing

Seal driveway, sidewalk and patio joints and cracks with flexible sealant so water stops washing out the base. Usually done right after lifting.