When you visit someone else’s property—whether it’s a private home, a business, or a public venue—you have the right to expect a reasonably safe environment. Property owners in New Hampshire and Massachusetts are legally responsible for repairing their premises. When they fail to maintain the property, the risk of injury increases dramatically.
At Elmore Law Office, our Portsmouth personal injury attorney helps individuals seriously injured by unsafe property conditions. From slippery entryways to broken stairs and faulty lighting, inadequate maintenance can lead to injury, and legal options may be available.
Understanding Property Owner Responsibilities in New Hampshire and Massachusetts
Premises liability laws in both states hold property owners accountable when they neglect reasonable upkeep and someone gets hurt. These responsibilities can vary slightly depending on whether the injured person is a guest, customer, or tenant. Still, the core principle remains the same: owners must take steps to prevent hazards.
This duty includes:
- Regular property inspections.
- Timely repairs to walkways, steps, handrails, and lighting.
- Removal of snow and ice within a reasonable timeframe.
- Ensuring building code compliance and structural safety.
- Warning visitors of known dangers that can’t be immediately repaired.
Owners or managers may be liable for injuries on their premises when they fail to uphold these duties.
Common Injuries Caused By Poor Property Maintenance in New Hampshire and Massachusetts
Inadequate maintenance can create many hidden dangers, especially in high-traffic areas. While many people associate these cases with slip-and-fall injuries, poor upkeep can cause far more serious harm.
Some examples of injuries linked to negligent maintenance include:
- Broken bones from uneven flooring or damaged stairs.
- Head injuries due to falling objects or collapsing ceilings.
- Spinal cord injuries from faulty elevators or unsafe decks.
- Burns or electric shocks from exposed wiring or faulty systems.
- Cuts or puncture wounds from broken glass or rusted metal.
- Severe injuries caused by improper security in neglected properties.
In both residential and commercial settings, these injuries can be life-altering, especially for older adults or individuals with mobility challenges.
What To Do If You’re Injured Due to Negligent Maintenance
Once you’re safe, it’s essential to preserve evidence and consider your legal options. Taking action quickly is critical to building a strong premises liability claim.
Steps you should take include:
- Documenting the hazardous condition (photos/videos)
- Getting names and contact information for any witnesses
- Reporting the injury to the property owner or manager in writing
- Preserving damaged clothing or items from the scene
- Seeking medical attention immediately.
- Contacting an attorney before speaking to insurance companies
Our experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the property’s maintenance history, uncover previous complaints, and pursue a claim on your behalf.
We Help Injured Clients Pursue Justice And Financial Recovery
At Elmore Law Office, we understand an injury’s devastating impact on your health, finances, and daily life. Our team is committed to holding negligent property owners accountable and helping you secure compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
If you were injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property in New Hampshire or Massachusetts, contact us today at (603) 929-1117 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. We’re here to help you move forward.