Defective premises are properties where structural issues, faulty construction, or maintenance failures create hazardous conditions for visitors. From crumbling staircases to broken handrails or faulty wiring, property owners are responsible for identifying and repairing dangers that can lead to injury.
When Property Owners Are Responsible for Unsafe Conditions
In Colorado, property owners have a legal obligation to maintain safe premises for visitors, tenants, and customers. If they fail to correct dangerous defects—or ignore warning signs—they may be held liable for resulting injuries.
Defective conditions can include both obvious hazards and hidden defects that a reasonable inspection would have revealed.
Who Is Liable for Defective Premises Injuries?
Liability for injuries caused by defective premises may fall on:
- Property owners or landlords
- Property management companies
- Building contractors (in cases of poor workmanship)
- Maintenance crews or service providers
These parties may be responsible if they failed to fix a known hazard, performed shoddy repairs, or neglected regular safety inspections.
Common Defects That Lead to Injuries
Some of the most frequent dangerous conditions found on defective premises include:
- Broken stairs or handrails
- Uneven or damaged flooring
- Loose tiles or carpeting
- Faulty lighting in stairwells or hallways
- Exposed wiring or electrical hazards
- Collapsing ceilings or structures
What to Do After an Injury Caused by Defective Premises
If you’re injured due to a dangerous property condition:
- Seek medical care immediately.
- Document the hazard with clear photos or videos.
- Report the issue to the property owner, manager, or business.
- Collect witness statements or contact info if available.
- Contact a premises liability attorney to discuss your legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Defective Premises Claims
What types of properties are commonly involved in defective premises claims?
Injuries can occur in apartment buildings, retail stores, office buildings, hotels, and private homes—anywhere the property owner has failed to maintain a safe environment.
How do I prove the property owner was negligent?
Evidence often includes photos of the defect, maintenance records, inspection reports, and witness testimony showing the owner knew—or should have known—about the hazard.
Can I sue if I was injured by a hidden defect?
Yes. Property owners are responsible for both visible and hidden dangers that could have been found through reasonable care or inspections.
What if the defect was caused by a third party, like a contractor?
Depending on the situation, both the property owner and the contractor could share liability for your injuries.
How a Premises Liability Attorney Can Help
An experienced attorney can assist by:
- Investigating how the defect occurred and identifying all responsible parties
- Collecting evidence such as inspection logs and repair records
- Filing a claim to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Representing you in negotiations or court, if necessary
Contact Chalat Law for Your Free Consultation
If you’ve been hurt due to a hazardous property defect, don’t wait. Contact Chalat Law for a free consultation to learn your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.