Is an electric sliding gate a liablility?

Question

Hi, I have a property with an electric sliding gate on the driveway in the back which leads to the garage. Adding the sliding gate and removing one side of the fence has increased the backyard space significantly but I have been wondering whether the sliding gate is a liabitlity. Please let me know your thoughts.

Thanks

Jayman Petel · Answer

It does have a motion sensor. However there is a potential for injury because it is a heavy gate. There is a another walk through gate next to the sliding gate but maybe fire trucks might get obstructed if they want to  drive their truck right up to the garage.

Good idea on checking with insurance company on this. I could take the gate off or disable it and cover a portion with a stationary fence as a precaution.

Or I could put a clause in the rental agreement to protect myself from any liability.

Jim Adrian · Answer

Things to consider...  If a structure fire happens,  how far away can you get from it?  Will you be able to reach a safe distance?  Not sure if a "safe distance" is specifically defined in codes.  How high is the fence?   Will the sliding gate work under manual power?

Vic French · Answer

Is the gate kept in good repair or is it a entrapment hazard to children? Does it have a motion detector?  I would check with an insurance company on this one to deflect liability. Maybe you need an umbrella insurance policy if it is appropriate to your situation.