Can I Sue My Landlord for a Stairway Fall

Stairways in apartment buildings are used daily by tenants, visitors, and delivery workers. When these stairways are not properly maintained, the consequences can be devastating. Falls on stairs often cause severe injuries such as fractured bones, torn ligaments, back and neck injuries, and even traumatic brain injuries that can take months or years to heal.

If you were injured in a stairway accident in your New York City apartment building, you may be wondering: Can I sue my landlord for my fall? The answer depends on the specific facts of your case, but in many situations, landlords can indeed be held legally responsible for unsafe stairways. Read on to learn more about New York law in this critical area, and if you’ve been hurt in a stairway fall at your apartment building in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens or Manhattan, contact Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., to speak with a skilled and experienced NYC stairway accident lawyer.

A Landlord’s Duty to Maintain Safe Stairways

Under New York law, landlords have a legal duty to maintain their buildings in a reasonably safe condition. This includes stairways, hallways, and other common areas used by tenants and their guests. A landlord cannot simply ignore broken steps, inadequate lighting, or missing handrails.

The New York City Housing Maintenance Code and Multiple Dwelling Law set clear requirements for landlords to keep stairways in good repair. For example, stairways must be equipped with secure handrails, properly lit, and free from dangerous conditions such as loose carpeting, cracked steps, or slippery substances. If a landlord fails to comply with these obligations, they may be liable for injuries caused by their negligence.

Common Causes of Stairway Accidents in Apartment Buildings

Some of the most frequent hazards that lead to stairway falls in New York apartment buildings include:

• Broken or missing handrails – Without a sturdy handrail, a small misstep can lead to a dangerous fall.
• Poor lighting – Dim or burned-out bulbs can make it difficult to see steps, especially at night.
• Worn or torn carpeting – Loose rugs or frayed carpet edges create tripping hazards.
• Broken or uneven steps – Cracked, chipped, or sagging steps are accidents waiting to happen.
• Wet or slippery conditions – Water leaks, spills, or uncleaned snow tracked in from outside can make stairs slick.

Landlords who ignore these conditions put residents and visitors at risk.

Proving Negligence in a New York Stairway Fall

To sue your landlord successfully, you must show that your injury was caused by the landlord’s negligence. In practical terms, this usually requires proving three things:

1. The stairway was unsafe. For example, a missing handrail, a broken step, or a poorly lit stairwell.
2. The landlord knew, or should have known, about the hazard. If the condition existed long enough or was previously reported to building management, the landlord may be deemed to have had notice.
3. The hazard directly caused your injury. Your fall must be linked to the dangerous condition.
4. You were hurt. Proving negligence is key, but you must also be able to show how the injury impacted you in terms of medical expenses, disability, pain and suffering, or diminished quality of life.

Evidence is key in stairway fall cases. Photographs of the condition, witness statements, prior complaints made to the landlord, and maintenance records can all be powerful proof that the landlord failed to keep the premises safe.

When a Landlord May Try to Avoid Responsibility

Landlords and their insurance companies often try to avoid liability by blaming the tenant. They may argue that the tenant wasn’t watching where they were going, was wearing improper footwear, or was carrying something that obstructed their view. While comparative negligence may reduce damages in some cases, it does not necessarily bar recovery. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation for your injuries if the landlord’s negligence played a role. Having an attorney represent you ensures you are not unfairly blamed for causing a slip and fall or trip and fall that wasn’t your fault or contributing to the accident beyond your actual share of responsibility.

The Importance of NYC Building Codes and Regulations

New York City building codes and housing regulations often play a critical role in stairway fall cases. For instance, the Building Code requires certain dimensions for stair treads and risers, as well as proper handrails and lighting. If your landlord failed to follow these rules, that violation may serve as compelling evidence of negligence.

For example:

• The NYC Building Code § 1009.15 requires handrails on both sides of a stairway in most buildings.
• The Housing Maintenance Code § 27-375(f) requires adequate lighting in every stairway at all times.

When a stairway does not meet these legal standards, and someone is injured as a result, the landlord can be held accountable.

Compensation Available in a Stairway Fall Lawsuit

If you successfully sue your landlord for a stairway fall, you may be entitled to compensation for legal damages such as:

• Medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgery, and physical therapy
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to work
• Pain and suffering, including physical pain and emotional distress
• Long-term disability or impairment if your injuries are permanent

Because stairway falls often cause serious harm, the financial impact can be significant, making it essential to pursue full and fair compensation.

Steps to Take After a Stairway Trip and Fall or Slip and Fall

If you’ve been hurt in your apartment building, here are important steps to protect your rights:

1. Report the accident to your landlord or building superintendent immediately.
2. Document the hazard by taking photos or videos of the stairway conditions.
3. Seek medical attention and keep copies of all treatment records.
4. Get witness information if anyone saw your fall.
5. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to preserve evidence and start building your case.

Call Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C.

At Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., we have decades of experience helping New Yorkers injured in stairway accidents hold negligent landlords accountable. We understand the complexities of New York premises liability law and know how to gather the evidence needed to prove your case.

If you were hurt in a stairway fall in your apartment building, don’t assume it was “just an accident.” You may have a valid claim for compensation. Call our office today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.