One would think that is how it is to work, but it doesn't in the state or city that I live. If someone complained to city officials about that sidewalk I live, it would be inspected by the city. I would then receive a 30 day notice to repair/replace it. If I did not comply with the letter, the city would replace it and bill the home/property owner at 3 times the cost a contractor would charge you. You can also be sued should someone get hurt by falling on the broken sidewalk.
VIA GOOGLE--In most U.S. cities, the property owner is responsible for repairing and maintaining the sidewalk in front of their house, even though it is part of the public right-of-way. While local governments often own the land, they frequently hold homeowners accountable for repairs, snow removal, and keeping it safe to avoid liability for accidents. [1, 2, 3, 4]
