Commercial properties like grocery stores, offices, and movie theaters, are legally obligated to maintain a safe and hazard-free environment at all times. This ordinance falls under premise liability law. For rental properties like townhomes, apartments, and condos, there is also a responsibility to maintain a premise that is both “up to code” and hazard-free; but who that responsibility falls on can sometimes be unclear.
For rental properties, most often the lease will define every detail of tenant and landlord responsibilities in terms of safety and maintenance. It is common for the tenant to be responsible for maintenance like snow and ice removal on personal sidewalks and driveways, but it is also common for condominium and apartment property management companies to provide professional landscaping and snow service for a monthly HOA (Home Owners’ Association) fee.
It is important to always discuss premise liability with your landlord or review the terms laid out in your lease. As for business owners, review some common building code violations that can not only cause slip, trip, and fall accidents, but hold you liable for a victim’s injuries and damages.
Building Code Violations and Hazards
Most slip and fall accidents can be prevented, but if certain precautions are not taken, a property can quickly become a hazardous environment. If you are aware of which code violations and dangers to look for, you can better protect yourself from a potential slip and fall accident. But if you are a property owner, it is more important to make sure your premises is properly maintained and safe at all times.Common Building Code Violations:
• Un-Shoveled Snow and Ice on Sidewalks
• Snow and Ice Left on Floors w/o Visible Warning
• Uneven Curbs or Sidewalks
• Warped Stairs or Steps
• Crumbling Steps
• Broken Stairwells
• Missing or Broken Stair Rails or Handles
• Poorly-Lit Sidewalks or Stairwells
• Improper Placement of Downspouts Causing Water and Ice Accumulation
• Lack of Slip-Resistant Mats for Slippery Floors
• Unmarked Construction Zones
• And More
If you were recently injured as a result of a slip and fall accident on someone else’s property, you may not be responsible for your own damages and losses. Talk to a licensed personal injury attorney about your slip and fall accident as soon as possible. You may be entitled to legal compensation for pain, suffering, medical bills, time off work, and much more.