Finding the perfect apartment in New York can bring immense relief, but that relief can quickly turn to distress if you experience a slip and fall injury due to unsafe conditions within your rented apartment. Many tenants are unaware that they may be entitled to compensation for their damages. Please continue reading as we explore what you should know about these matters and how a qualified New York City Apartment Accident Attorney can help you fight for the justice you deserve.
Can a Landlord Be Held Liable for a Slip and Fall Accident in a Rented Apartment?
If you slip and fall in your apartment, you can only hold your landlord liable for your injuries under specific circumstances. Generally, when you rent an apartment, you are responsible for maintaining the safety of the space and are liable for any injuries sustained due to hazards within your unit. For example, if you trip over a throw rug you placed or slip on the water you spilled, your landlord is not responsible.
However, your landlord can be held liable for injuries resulting from defects that existed before you moved in or issues you notified them about before the accident. This is based on the principle that landlords have a duty to maintain the premises in a habitable condition. For instance, if you informed your landlord about a broken handrail and they failed to repair it promptly, and you were subsequently injured due to the faulty handrail, you could hold your landlord accountable for any resulting damages. Similarly, if a pre-existing electoral issue led to an accident, the landlord could be held liable if they knew or should have reasonably known about the problem and failed to address it.
It’s important to note that landlords are responsible for maintaining the safety of common areas. They have a duty to regularly inspect hallways, stairwells, elevators, and outdoor spaces to identify and address potential hazards, and reasonable steps to prevent accidents. If you slip and fall due to uncleared snow or ice on the sidewalk, or due to a broken step in a stairwell your landlord can be held liable for your injuries.
Should I Consult an Attorney?
In the unfortunate event that you have been injured in a slip and fall accident in your rented apartment, it’s essential to consult with a skilled attorney to understand your rights and options. At Swerling Law, we are prepared to investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence to support your claim, and determine whether you have a valid claim against your landlord. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you.
