Posted By David Bramall Edward The depth of the defect varies between authorities, although 40mm is not a figure which is set in stone by any means; 40mm would certainly be considered to be a defect with most. However, usually defects are classed depending on their depth such as Class 1 = 25mm, class 2 = 40mm and class 3 = >40mm, these figures are examples only. The reason for having different categories or classes usually simply indicates the timescale in which the defect should be repaired. Most authorities don't automatically pay out - especially for personal injury but will carry out some level of investigation to either recommend or refuse any offer of compensation. Ultimately, the decision very often comes down to a court decision - which does not necessarily reflect the authorities guidelines. Obviously if a defect has not been repaired within the given timescale, the authority will usually be found negligent. Hope this helps DrB

Posted By John Cook Edward would not get too hung up on what Local Authorities pay out on. These are not incidents at work. Workplace Health Safety and Welfare Regs are where you should be looking, specifically reg 12 Condition of Floors and traffic routes. Which states, the floor, or surface of the traffic route, shall have no hole or slope, or be uneven or slippery so as, in each case, to expose any person to a risk to his health or safety. It would depend on interpretation as to whether or not a 15 mm difference breaches this regulation. John