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Window guards save lives in New York. In a city where high-rises and apartment buildings are the norm, this should not surprise anyone. If you own property in New York, you may be legally required to install window guards to prevent falls from happening. But what happens if you are renting an apartment? What kind of legal obligation does your landlord have to install these safety features, and what happens if they fail to act?
If an uninstalled or faulty window guard has resulted in injury for you or a loved one, you have the opportunity to file a personal injury lawsuit against any negligent parties. You can do this by reaching out to a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney near you. We can guide you through the legal process in a clear and concise manner so that you can get the compensation you deserve for your damages.
Does a Landlord Have to Install Window Guards?
The decision to mandate the installation of window guards has been a lifesaver in New York City. The Big Apple was the first city in the nation to adopt a window guard policy, and it has been in place ever since 1976. Prior to this, as many as 100 people were falling out of windows every single year in the city. Many of these incidents resulted in serious injuries or fatalities. Ever since window guards have become mandatory in some situations, falls have fallen by well over 80%.
Landlords and property owners are legally obligated to install window guards under certain circumstances. As soon as they become aware that a child under the age of 11 is living in a building, they have to install window guards. This rule applies in buildings with three or more separate units. In addition, landlords are required to install window guards whenever you request them, regardless of the type of building.
Property owners also have a responsibility to inform you of the window guard requirements at the start of a new lease, or whenever a lease is renewed. In addition, these owners must distribute annual notices that detail the city’s window guard policy.
What Happens if My Landlord Never Installed Window Guards?
If you suffered an injury because your landlord never installed window guards, you can file a personal injury lawsuit. Landlords have something called a “duty of care” to their tenants, which means that they are legally required to provide them with a safe living environment. If they fail in this duty of care, they open themselves up to lawsuits.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you have been searching the New York area for a qualified, experienced attorney, look no further than The Glassman Law Group. We have dealt with a wide range of personal injury cases in the past, and we know how to hold negligent parties accountable. Landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure that you have a safe living environment. If they fail in this duty, they may be liable for your damages. Reach out today, and we can explore your legal options during a consultation.