Preventive maintenance and routine inspections don’t end at your buildings’ doors. When providing a safe environment for guests, staff, or students, don’t forget to look down—at your parking lot.

Ministry parking lots are multifunctional spaces. Beyond accommodating vehicles, they serve as staging areas for carpools, venues for carnivals and fundraisers, playgrounds for sports and games, impromptu fellowship spaces...and injuries.¹

• A wedding guest stumbles on an unpainted parking block. He breaks his leg and suffers a concussion.

• A volunteer trips on exposed rebar in a section of crumbled concrete and breaks her ankle.

• A camper needs extensive surgery for a broken nose and gashed lip after a trip on an uneven transition between the parking lot and the sidewalk.

Four Cost-Saving Benefits of Preventive Lot Care

1. Early Detection—Identifying minor issues early on can prevent them from escalating into major repairs with significant costs.

2. Extended Pavement Life—Regular maintenance like sealcoating and crack sealing help protect the asphalt, extend its usable life, and avoid unexpected major repairs.

3. Reduced Liability Costs—Maintaining a safe parking lot is good financial stewardship. Neglecting regular upkeep can lead to injuries, costly repairs, and potential legal issues.

4. Enhanced Curb Appeal—A well-maintained lot improves its overall appearance and reflects your values, mission, and commitment to safety and security.

Risk Management and Liability Prevention: Why it Matters

A parking lot may not seem dangerous at first glance, but tripping hazards can be a frequent cause of slip-and-fall accidents. A poorly maintained parking lot can pose serious safety hazards to anyone who uses your lot, including visitors, staff, children, and vendors. Cracks, potholes, uneven surfaces, and faded parking lot stripes can lead to significant liability issues stemming from injuries, drainage and ponding issues, and vehicle damage.

By proactively maintaining your lot, you decrease the risk. A well-maintained parking lot offers two-fold benefits: 1) overall safety and security, and 2) extended pavement life with long-term savings. Regular maintenance helps identify hazards before they cause harm and helps maintain a safe environment for everyone.

Compliance with ADA Regulations

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that parking lots must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes properly marked and maintained accessible parking spaces, ramps, and pathways. Source: “Accessible Parking Spaces.” ADA.gov, U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. https://www.ada.gov/topics/parking.

Pave the Way: How to Prolong the Lot’s Life

Get on a schedule to inspect, prevent, and clean. Your parking lot is an investment that needs your care and attention.

A preventive maintenance program includes regular inspections and minor repairs. The initial investment in preventive maintenance pays off in the long run—by conducting routine inspections, you’ll catch issues such as cracks, potholes, and drainage problems early on, reducing repair costs and lowering liability risks. Regular cleaning prevents debris and dirt from collecting, which can cause deterioration of the asphalt. Conduct inspections at least twice a year, with additional checks after extreme weather conditions, like hail or heavy rains. Time-saving step: Create an annual plan for both spot inspections and more thorough inspections. Keep a log to track repairs.

Heal Thy Lot. To grind and repave a lot is expensive—regular maintenance prolongs lot life and saves money. Be sure to consult with a pavement professional first before trying these options:

• Seal Up Those Cracks. Cracks in asphalt are inevitable—weather changes and regular wear and tear are simply a part of the pavement’s lifecycle. However, sealing cracks as soon as they appear can prevent water from seeping into the base layer, causing further damage. Crack sealing is a cost-effective way to extend the life of the pavement and avoid more extensive repairs.

• Renew and Fortify with a Fresh Coat. Sealcoating involves applying a protective layer to the asphalt surface. This process helps to shield the pavement from harmful UV rays, oil spills, and water penetration. Sealcoating enhances the appearance of the parking lot and extends its lifespan by preventing deterioration. Tip: this should be done approximately every 2–3 years.

• Patch Up Potholes. Potholes are a common issue in parking lots, particularly after the freeze-and-thaw cycle of winter months. Repairing potholes is crucial to prevent them from expanding and becoming a bigger problem. But potholes of any size pose the threat of tripping and damage to vehicles. Cold or hot patching methods can be used depending on the size and severity of the pothole.

• Drain Water, Not Money. Effective drainage systems are essential for maintaining the integrity of the parking lot. Standing water often weakens the pavement and leads to cracks and potholes. Keep drains clear of debris and functioning correctly, especially following a storm or heavy snow and in the fall season. Lawn irrigations systems can create unnecessary water accumulation on your lot, too. Make sure that nozzles are adjusted to prevent “watering the lot.”

• Stripe it Right. Over time, the paint used for line striping can fade, leading to unclear parking spaces and haphazard parking. Regular re-striping ensures that parking spaces, pedestrian walkways, and directional arrows are clearly visible, enhancing safety and traffic flow. Professional stripers ensure that lines are crisp and compliant with regulations.

• Light Up Your Lot—Lighting and Security. A well-lit parking lot boosts security and reduces the risk of accidents and crime. Make sure that all lights are working and placed to improve walkability and deter vandalism and theft. Consider using LED lights to save on electricity costs.

NOTE: Be sure to inspect the work of any contractor you hire and follow up on repairs. Quality matters when it comes to parking lot maintenance—explore local options to ensure you’re getting the appropriate service necessary for your lot.

Remember, proactive maintenance not only saves costs but also promotes safety and enhances your property’s image. By prioritizing preventive measures, you’ll avoid costly repairs down the road and create a safer environment for all.

1 “Distraction Can Often Cause Parking Lot Injuries.” accessed 12 June 2024. https://www.nsc.org/road/safety-topics/distracted-driving/parking-lot-safety.

Posted July 2024
The information provided in this article is intended to be helpful, but it does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for the advice from a licensed attorney in your area. We strongly encourage you to regularly consult with a local attorney as part of your risk management program.