NYCDOT - Pothole Photos

New York City Department of Transportation

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Motorists
What Street Defects Look Like

While most people refer to street defects as potholes, there are various types of street defects that are caused by different factors and may require different methods to correct. To assist us in deploying the appropriate personnel and equipment, please review the photographs and descriptions to assist you in correctly identifying the type of street defect. After reviewing these photos, use our online form online form or contact the Department. Other forms on this web site can be used to report problems caused by street construction or problems with street lights, traffic signals, or traffic signs.

Potholes

Cave-Ins

Hummocks

Ponding Conditions

Manhole Covers

Street Hardware

Failed Street Cut or Old Utility Cut

Open Street Cut

Potholes are characterized by a definable bottom surface such as dirt or gravel.

Cave-ins generally look like depressions, with a jagged hole and a deep void beneath it. Call 311.

Hummocks are bumps that result when the roadway has pushed up. Hummocks are commonly located at or near intersections where there is heavy traffic.

Ponding conditions are usually caused by low points in the roadway, inadequate drainage systems or improper grading. Call 311.

Manhole covers may be cracked, missing, above grade or below grade and will generally cause a jolt when driven over. Call 311.

Street hardware such as electric vaults may be cracked, missing, above grade or below grade and will generally cause a jolt when driven over. Use our street construction complaint form or call 311.

An old utility cut, usually square or rectangular in shape. If the cut was made within the last three years, the contractor is responsible for the repair. If the cut is older than three years (five years on a protected street), DOT is responsible for the repair.

An open street cut is usually the result of a utility company working on the roadway. It is generally identified by markings near the cut. If work is in progress, there should be an information sign identifying the contractor/permittee and the permit number. Use our street construction complaint form or call 311.