Does an apartment complex have a legal obligation to notify tenants of prior criminal activity against women onits property?
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Does an apartment complex have a legal obligation to notify tenants of prior criminal activity against women onits property?
My daughter was attacked by knife point and their were previous attacks (assault, rape, robbery) against women. Their was no notification for women to be aware of these attacks on the property. They have security but he’s usually sleeping in his car. Do we have grounds to sue the landlord for my daughter’s unfortunate attack?
Asked on August 18, 2011 Washington
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
There is no specific obligation to notify tenants of attacks on the property. However, there is an obligation on landlords to provide proper security, with proper security being judged in terms of the circumstances--the area of the town/city and its safety and history of crime; the population of the building; the physical set-up of the complex; and, in this case, whether there have been attacks on premises. If a landlord does not provide proper security, which depending on the circumstances can mean *effective* or adequate security guards or patrols, in addition to good locks, locking external doors, adequate lighting, etc., the landlord may be liable for any attacks. From what you right, you may have grounds for a lawsuit, and it would be worthwhile to consult with an attorney. Good luck.
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