07/02/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/02/2024 07:55
Jul 02, 2024
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As we enter the peak summer months, multifamily housing owners are sure to face the usual wave of injury claims that occur on their premises. Playground mishaps, parking lot slip-and-falls, and swimming pool accidents are all on the horizon. Premises liability is a crucial aspect of personal injury law that governs property owners' potential liability for accidents and injuries that occur on their property. Multifamily housing owners and operators should understand the basics of premises liability to assist them in potentially limiting their risk for personal injury claims. Here are a few basic things that all multifamily housing owners and operators should keep in mind this summer.
Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility that a property owner or occupier has for injuries or accidents that occur on their property. In most jurisdictions, the legal "duty of care" that a property owner owes to visitors varies based on the visitor's status: invitee, licensee, or trespasser. As a result, the specific obligations owed to these individuals differ, affecting how premises liability claims are evaluated.
Invitees are individuals who enter the property for business purposes, such as customers in a store. Property owners owe a high duty of care to invitees; this duty generally includes inspecting and maintaining the premises and addressing potential hazards. Similarly, licensees are social guests or individuals who enter the property for their own purposes but with the owner's permission, such as a visitor at a friend's house. Owners must ensure that their property is reasonably safe and warn licensees of any known dangers, but are generally not required to inspect their property for unknown hazards.
Trespassers are individuals who enter the property without permission. While property owners only owe a minimal duty of care towards trespassers, they must refrain from willfully causing harm. Additionally, in some cases, property owners must address "attractive nuisances" that may prompt minors to trespass onto the property where they can suffer injuries, such as playground equipment and swimming pools.
Beyond these basic categories, however, many jurisdictions hold that landlords owe an even higher duty of care to their tenants. This heightened duty often includes the responsibility to perform regular inspections, promptly address maintenance issues, and ensure the premises are safe and habitable according to local housing codes. Landlords may also be held liable for failing to address known hazards or for violating building regulations that result in tenant injuries.
To be successful in a premises liability claim, the injured party must typically prove that the property owner violated one of its legal duties with respect to the property, that this negligence directly caused the injury, and that the injured party suffered damages as a result.
Premises liability claims can arise from various situations, and understanding these common scenarios can help multifamily property owners take preventative measures to mitigate injury risks. Some common scenarios for premises liability claims are:
Multifamily housing owners have many tools at their disposal to help lower their potential exposure for premises liability including:
Additionally, beyond preventative measures, multifamily property owners can take steps now to "soften the blow" if or when a premises liability claim arises:
If an accident occurs on your multifamily property and you suspect a premises liability claim may be filed, be prepared to take the following steps as soon as possible:
Premises liability is a critical aspect of multifamily housing ownership that requires vigilant attention to safety and legal responsibilities. By understanding how premises liability works, recognizing common sources of claims, taking proactive steps to mitigate risks, and knowing what to do if a claim is filed, multifamily housing owners can better protect themselves and their tenants/visitors. Prioritizing safety and preparedness not only helps to avoid or reduce legal troubles, but also ensures a safer environment for everyone. Implementing robust safety measures, maintaining clear records, and staying informed about legal obligations are essential components of effective premises management.
Frost Brown Todd counsels investors, developers, insurers, and other key stakeholders on multi-family housing transactions in states across the country. We remain at the forefront of all critical issues affecting the multifamily housing industry, and we are ready to assist clients with navigating this rapidly changing environment. For more information, please contact the authors of this article or any attorney of Frost Brown Todd's Multifamily Housing Industry Team or the Product, Tort, and Insurance Defense practice group.