When looking at data on residential leases across all U.S. states, the number of Maryland residents who rent their homes is comparatively high. Statistics indicate that 51 percent of individuals rent their homes in Baltimore, while 32.7 percent of households across the state are occupied by renters. If you are one of them, you might be attracted to the idea that common areas, amenities, repairs to units, and ongoing maintenance are managed by your landlord.
Still, there are certain expectations when you are paying rent in exchange for the space and services provided by the landlord. You should feel safe in the place where you live, so you anticipate that appropriate security measures have been implemented. This is not always the case when landlords shirk their legal duties, allowing criminal activity to pose a threat to residents. Victims have rights under Maryland law, so speak to an Owings Mills negligent security lawyer about your remedies. Some information about your landlord’s duties is also useful.
Overview of a Residential Landlord’s Duties: The basic responsibility of a property owner is to maintain the space in a reasonably safe condition and free from foreseeable hazards. This duty is imposed by the concept of premises liability. In the specific context of an apartment complex landlord, you can guess some of the duties. They include replacing broken fixtures, making repairs, and routine maintenance. The landlord is also responsible for conducting inspections to uncover hazardous conditions.
Another important duty of property owners, including residential landlords, is implementing proper security measures. It may be a breach of the duty to keep the apartment complex safe if they do not take appropriate measures, such as:
- Establishing a key or card system for residents;
- Ensuring locks on doors, windows, and gates are in working order;
- Hiring a security guard to manage the front door; and,
- Making sure there is sufficient lighting in all common areas.
How Breach of Duty Affects Residents: Negligent security puts all residents and guests at risk of serious injuries through criminal attacks, such as:
- Shootings;
- Stabbings;
- Assault and aggravated assault;
- Sexual assault, rape, and sex crimes involving children; and,
- Many others.
When the apartment building landlord knows that criminal activity is a threat, he or she must implement the safety measures mentioned above to protect residents. If you were injured under these circumstances, you may have a claim against your landlord for negligent security. Through legal action, you might qualify to recover for your medical costs, including hospitalization, surgery, and treatment from mental health professionals. Plus, you could obtain amounts for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other quality of life losses.
Rely on a Maryland Negligent Security Attorney to Help with Your Claim
Landlords owe a legal duty to tenants, so they are required to do more than just cash your rent check. To learn more about negligent security in apartment complexes, please contact Furman | Honick Law by calling 410-844-6000 or visiting our website. We can set up a no-cost consultation at our Owings Mills or Baltimore offices.
Source:
rentcafe.com/average-rent-market-trends/us/md/baltimore-city/