Landlord Liability for Negligent Security at Apartment Complexes and Buildings in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

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Sexual assaults occur every day in this country. Women, men, and children of all ages and races are victims of sexual abuse or assault. In some cases, a perpetrator may gain entry into a residence due to a faulty door lock or window lock, and in which case, the landlord could be held liable. However, such liability is not limited to landlords. Other entities which can bear liability in a sex assault case include:

  • hotels,
  • motels,
  • property management companies, and
  • security companies.

Oftentimes, victims of sexual abuse believe that their only recourse is against the perpetrator. Under both Pennsylvania and New Jersey laws, anyone who suffers injury due to the negligent conduct of another may be able to receive financial compensation for their injuries. This is the basis of negligence laws. Landlords, hotels, motels, etc. can bear liability for sex assaults, assaults, etc. committed on their premises due to negligence. For more information about landlord liability for criminal activity in Pennsylvania, click here.

Common Negligence Claims Against Landlords, Hotels, Motels in PA and NJ

There are two main negligence claims made in these kinds of cases: negligent security and negligent hiring/retention. The first claim involves lapses in security, such as broken window locks, improper lighting or faulty door entry systems, which lead to access by criminals. The second claim involves hiring or retaining an employee who commits the crime. For instance, a hotel could be liable in a situation where a hotel employee assaults a guest, or a maintenance worker abuses a tenant.

It is best to speak to a knowledgeable negligent security liability and injury lawyer to discuss the facts of your case and determine the viability of a civil lawsuit.

More from our Pennsylvania Sex Abuse Victims Legal Rights Law Library:

Sexual Abuse Victims Attorney & Advocate

Laffey, Bucci & Kent handles sexual abuse cases in the Northeast area with offices in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York.  Attorneys at the firm are licensed in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Firm partner, Brian Kent, is a former sex crimes unit prosecutor who now fights for victims’ rights to obtain justice in civil cases. The firm has the resources and experience to handle sex abuse cases in all states and welcomes calls from local counsel about potential cases. Click To Call

**This website does not provide legal advice.  Every case is unique and it is crucial to get a qualified, expert legal opinion prior to making any decisions about your case.  See the full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.