Your parking lot is more than a place to park — it’s the first and last part of your property that every visitor experiences.
And if it’s not maintained properly, it can quickly become a liability nightmare.
From trip hazards to poor visibility, these seemingly small issues can lead to accidents, lawsuits, and damaged reputations.
Here are the top 5 safety hazards we see every week — and how to fix them before they cost you thousands.
1️⃣ Cracks, Potholes & Uneven Surfaces
The problem:
Pavement cracks and potholes form from water intrusion, heavy loads, and time.
They’re not just ugly — they create tripping hazards for pedestrians and vehicle damage risks for tenants and customers.
The fix:
✅ Crackfilling and patching immediately after noticing damage prevents water from spreading beneath the surface.
✅ Sealcoating every 2–3 years protects against UV and weather deterioration.
✅ Routine inspections help spot early-stage failures before they become liabilities.
Pro tip: The cost of a small patch today can save you from a full repave tomorrow.
2️⃣ Faded Striping and Illegible Markings
The problem:
Over time, parking lines, arrows, and ADA symbols fade under UV exposure and traffic.
When that happens, drivers park incorrectly, pedestrians lose safe walkways, and accessibility compliance is lost.
The fix:
✅ Restriping every 12–18 months maintains visibility and ADA compliance.
✅ Use high-visibility thermoplastic paint or premium traffic coatings that last longer.
✅ Ensure ADA stalls, loading zones, and directional flow are clearly marked.
Fresh striping not only prevents confusion — it also makes your property look clean and well-managed.
3️⃣ Poor Drainage & Standing Water
The problem:
Ponding or puddles might seem harmless, but they signal deeper drainage issues.
Standing water weakens the subbase, causes cracks to expand, and creates slippery areas for pedestrians.
The fix:
✅ Regrade problem areas to ensure proper water flow.
✅ Clean and maintain catch basins and inlets regularly.
✅ Apply crack sealant to prevent water penetration during the rainy season.
Good drainage = long pavement life. It’s the most overlooked factor in asphalt durability.
4️⃣ Insufficient Lighting
The problem:
Dim or broken lights increase the risk of accidents, theft, and vandalism.
Even if your pavement is flawless, poor visibility makes people feel unsafe.
The fix:
✅ Upgrade to LED lighting for energy efficiency and brightness.
✅ Ensure consistent coverage across drive lanes and walkways.
✅ Conduct quarterly lighting inspections to replace bulbs and test sensors.
Lighting is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to boost both safety and tenant satisfaction.
5️⃣ Lack of ADA Compliance
The problem:
Non-compliant slopes, missing signage, or faded handicap markings can lead to hefty fines and legal action.
It’s not just a legal issue — it’s about accessibility and inclusion.
The fix:
✅ Schedule an ADA compliance inspection with a certified paving contractor.
✅ Refresh signage, ramps, and striping regularly.
✅ Ensure access aisles, slope grades, and signage heights meet the latest standards (Title 24 & ADA 2025 updates).
ADA compliance isn’t optional — it’s peace of mind for property owners and tenants alike.
🧱 Keep Your Property Safe, Clean, and Liability-Free
At We Love Paving, we help commercial property managers protect their investments through proactive maintenance and professional inspections.
From crack repair and sealcoating to ADA upgrades and restriping, our team ensures your parking lot stays safe, compliant, and visually appealing year-round.
💬 Schedule Your Free Property Safety Assessment
Get ahead of potential hazards before they turn into problems.
👉 Request Your Free Assessment and our experts will walk your site, identify risks, and provide a clear, actionable plan — at no cost.
