Hidden Dangers In Historic Maryland Properties

Rich with historic charm, Maryland is home to centuries-old buildings in Annapolis and cobblestone streets and Colonial-era structures in places like Baltimore and Frederick. While these historic properties are beloved for their character and significance, they can also harbor hidden injury dangers.

For property owners, it’s crucial to understand specific injury risks that come with maintaining a historic property. To explore some common issues and ways property owners can be held accountable when they don’t provide a safe environment, connect with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer.

Unique Risks in Historic Buildings

Maryland law requires property owners to maintain premises in a reasonably safe condition, especially when inviting members of the public onto their property. This means they should address known risks, conduct regular inspections, and make necessary repairs promptly.

• Outdated electrical wiring. Older buildings often have outdated or insufficient electrical wiring that wasn’t designed to handle today’s high demand for electricity. Original wiring may be prone to overheating, increasing the risk of electrical fires or shocks. In some cases, ungrounded outlets or improperly insulated wiring can lead to serious injury for occupants or visitors.
• Worn and uneven flooring. Floors in historic properties may have been crafted with beautiful materials like old hardwood or stone, but over time, wear and tear can create uneven surfaces, loose floorboards, and cracks that pose a trip-and-fall hazard. Even subtle shifts in the foundation over time can create unexpected dips and slopes, making it difficult for visitors to navigate safely.
• Narrow or unstable staircases. Many historic properties have narrow staircases, sometimes with steep rises or shallow steps that were standard in earlier construction. These design features can be particularly hazardous for individuals who have mobility issues or for children. Handrails may also be weak or improperly secured, increasing the risk of falls.
• Lack of modern safety features. Historic properties may lack features we take for granted in modern buildings, such as emergency exits and smoke detectors. In some cases, aesthetic considerations may lead property owners to avoid installing these safety measures, but this can put visitors at risk. It’s important for property owners to comply with safety regulations without compromising the historic character of the property. Consulting with safety experts who specialize in historic buildings can help achieve this balance.

Owners and managers of historic properties must take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of their guests, tenants, and other visitors.

The Role of a Maryland Premises Liability Attorney

When accidents do occur, injured parties have the right to pursue compensation if the property owner’s negligence contributed to the accident. While historic properties add beauty and culture to Maryland, they come with specific responsibilities for their owners. A Baltimore personal injury lawyer can help investigate the property owner’s maintenance practices and establish accountability.

Has a hidden historic building danger upended your life? For those who suffer an injury due to neglected conditions in a historic property, talking to the attorneys at Iamele & Iamele, LLP can be the first step in securing compensation. Contact us to book a confidential appointment.