When Can I Sue My Landlord for Premises Liability in the Bronx?

According to various sources, the percentage of renters in the Bronx is about 80%. With so many people renting, the likelihood of various injuries caused by landlords is relatively high. If you believe that you suffered injuries as a direct result of your landlord’s negligence, you might be correct. But when are you allowed to sue your landlord in the Bronx? Can an experienced premises liability lawyer help you pursue compensation for your injuries?

Are Landlords Responsible for the Safety of Their Tenants? 

Landlords are not responsible for preventing all injuries within the rental space. If you cause your own injuries with no contributions from the landlord, they are not required to cover your damages.

However, a landlord is required to provide you with a safe, hygienic, and stable place to live. They must also adhere to various laws and regulations in New York City, including the Building Code. For example, they are required to install certain fire safety equipment.

Landlords also need to provide you with a place free from pests, mold, and other obvious hazards. If you develop an illness because of exposure to mold or pests, you might be able to pursue a premises liability lawsuit.

Certain aspects of the Building Code are specifically designed to prevent injuries. For example, there are restrictions on how wide and steep staircases can be.

Can I Sue a Landlord After a Fire? 

If you were injured in a fire, you may be able to sue your landlord for breaching their duty of care. However, you must show that your injuries were at least partially caused by your landlord’s negligence. For example, the fire exit may have been obstructed – causing you to inhale smoke or suffer unnecessary burns.

A classic example is a sprinkler system or smoke detector that fails to function properly. Your landlord is responsible for maintaining this equipment, and their failure to carry out this duty could lead to a personal injury lawsuit.

What if I Slipped on Ice Outside the Property?

 If you slipped and fell on an icy or snowy surface outside the property, your landlord might still be liable for your injuries. One of a landlord’s most important tasks during the winter months in New York is to clear away snow and ice. This might involve calling the necessary contractors for snow removal or salting surfaces in preparation for snowfall.

Key Takeaways 

• Landlords are legally required to provide tenants with safe living spaces
• Tenants often cause injuries due to hazardous walking areas and fires
• Your premises liability lawyer can help you gather evidence of landlord negligence

Can a Premises Liability Lawyer in the Bronx Help Me? 

A premises liability lawyer in the Bronx may be able to help you pursue compensation if you suspect your landlord is to blame. Landlords may cause or contribute to accidents in various ways, and you are fully entitled to take legal action if you were injured as a result of this negligence. To learn more about your legal options, consider scheduling a consultation with Cohan Law, PLLC today.

Source:

 nyc.gov/assets/dsny/docs/about_snow-removal-responsibilities_0815.pdf