When you rent a property, you might not think about the risks that come with it. However, tenants can face liability for injuries that occur on the premises in certain situations. It’s important to understand the circumstances in which you could be responsible and how to protect yourself.
What determines tenant liability?
Liability for injuries on a rental property depends on the injury’s nature and whether you were negligent. If someone is injured because of poor maintenance or if your actions directly caused the injury, you might face responsibility. For example, if you neglect to maintain the yard or fail to fix a broken handrail that causes an accident, the injured party may hold you accountable.
Property maintenance and tenant responsibilities
As a tenant, you are generally responsible for maintaining certain areas of the property to ensure safety. If an injury happens because you didn’t repair or maintain something—such as a broken step or loose light fixture—you might face liability. The lease agreement typically outlines which parts of the property you are responsible for maintaining, so it’s essential to review it thoroughly.
When is the landlord responsible?
In most cases, landlords are responsible for ensuring the property is safe, particularly when it comes to structural issues and common areas. If an injury occurs because of poor maintenance that the landlord should have addressed, they could be held accountable. However, you might still share some responsibility, especially if your actions caused or contributed to the hazardous condition.
How to reduce liability risk as a tenant
To minimize the chance of facing a premises liability claim, regularly inspect the property for hazards and fix any issues promptly. If something requires repairs beyond your ability, notify the landlord right away. Keep records of communication and repairs to protect yourself from liability in case of an injury.
By staying proactive and addressing potential dangers, you can often avoid liability for premises injuries and help maintain a safer living space.
