Is Your Landlord Responsible for an Icy Sidewalk or Staircase Injury?

Winters in Pennsylvania bring picturesque snowfalls, but they also create hazardous walking conditions. Icy sidewalks and staircases are a common cause of serious injuries, especially in cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown. For tenants, one of the most important questions after a rental slip and fall is whether the landlord is legally responsible for the accident.

Understanding your rights can help you pursue compensation if you suffer a tenant injury in the snow. Call Edelstein Martin & Nelson today to schedule your free consultation with a Pennsylvania premises liability lawyer. 

Landlord Responsibilities Under Pennsylvania Law

A Pennsylvania premises liability lawyer can explain that landlords have a legal duty to keep rental properties safe for tenants and visitors. This includes maintaining common areas such as shared sidewalks, staircases, and entryways. The exact responsibility often depends on:

• Lease agreements: Many leases specify whether the landlord or tenant handles snow and ice removal.
• Local ordinances: Cities like Philadelphia have rules requiring property owners to clear sidewalks within a certain time frame, often within six hours after snowfall stops.
• Control of the area: If the landlord maintains control over the icy area, they may be liable for resulting injuries.

When a Landlord May Be Liable for Icy Sidewalk or Stair Injuries

Liability often hinges on whether the landlord had notice of the hazard and failed to address it in a reasonable time. Examples of situations where a landlord may be responsible include:

• Neglecting to shovel or salt: If your landlord did not clear ice from the steps leading to your apartment near Rittenhouse Square, they may be liable if you fall.
• Poor drainage or maintenance: Faulty gutters or uneven pavement causing ice buildup outside your rental property could also make them liable.
• Ignoring tenant reports: If you notified your landlord about a dangerous icy patch and they did nothing, that can strengthen your case.

If a landlord is responsible for an icy sidewalk in Pennsylvania, they may be held accountable for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

When the Tenant May Bear Responsibility

While landlords have obligations, tenants also have responsibilities in some situations:

• If your lease specifies you must handle snow removal for your own steps or walkway, you may be responsible for injuries that occur there.
• If you create a hazardous condition, such as spilling water that freezes, the landlord may argue you caused your own rental slip and fall.

Proving a Landlord’s Negligence

To succeed in a claim, you and your attorney will need to establish that the landlord:

• Had a duty to maintain the area.
• Failed to take reasonable action to remove the hazard.
• Caused your injury as a result of their negligence.

Evidence can include:

• Photos or videos: Showing the icy condition at the time of the accident.
• Witness statements: From neighbors or delivery workers who saw the hazard.
• Maintenance records: Proving no action was taken to clear the ice.

Why Legal Help Matters

Pennsylvania’s winter weather can turn any sidewalk, staircase, or front stoop into a dangerous hazard. Unfortunately, landlords and their insurance companies may try to shift the blame to tenants or claim the icy conditions were “natural” and unavoidable. A knowledgeable Pennsylvania premises liability lawyer can review your lease, local laws, and evidence to determine whether your landlord failed in their duty to protect you.

Protecting Your Rights After a Snow or Ice Injury

If you’ve suffered a tenant injury in the snow, you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost income, and other damages. An experienced attorney can gather evidence, deal with the landlord’s insurance company, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Our efficient Pennsylvania slip-and-fall lawyers at Edelstein, Martin, and Nelson understand the challenges of proving a landlord was responsible for an icy sidewalk in Pennsylvania and have the skill to hold negligent property owners accountable. Call (215) 731-9900 today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue your claim.