Ceiling collapses in New York City are more than just frightening events; they often result in severe injuries and substantial property damage. New York City's aging infrastructure and dense urban landscape create unique risks, making it essential to have a dedicated advocate by your side when disaster strikes.
In 2023, the stakes became even clearer with a dramatic incident in the Bronx. An engineer’s misjudgment, mistakenly identifying a critical load-bearing column as merely decorative, led to the partial collapse of an apartment building.
As a leading ceiling collapse law firm in New York City, we understand the complexities of handling these cases amidst our city's unique challenges. If you or a loved one has been affected by a ceiling collapse, don’t face it alone.
Our NYC ceiling collapse lawyer is here to provide compassionate and expert guidance. We offer a free consultation to discuss your situation and explore your options with no obligation.
Contact us today for your free consultation. We’re here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Do You Have a Roof and Ceiling Collapse Claim?
If you’re wondering whether you have a case for a ceiling collapse or any personal injury claim, there are a few important things to consider:
- Actual Notice of a Dangerous or Defective Condition: To have a valid claim, the person responsible or the property owner must have known about the problem. For example, if they knew of a ceiling about to fall and did nothing about it, that’s a strong point for your case.
- Constructive Notice of a Dangerous or Defective Condition: Constructive notice refers to situations where the defect was so apparent that the property owner or manager should have discovered it in the normal course of their duties. For instance, a leaking ceiling might indicate an underlying issue that requires attention.
- Duty of Care: The building owner or manager is legally responsible for keeping the property safe. If they fail to do this, it can be the basis of your claim. For example, they might have breached their duty if they ignored a ceiling in disrepair.
- Breach of Duty: To establish a case, you must show that the responsible party breached their duty of care. This breach occurs when they fail to act with the reasonable care expected. In the context of a ceiling collapse, this might involve failing to repair known issues or ignoring safety regulations.
- Causation: You must demonstrate that the breach of duty caused the ceiling collapse or your injuries. This means proving a direct link between negligent behavior and the collapse. For example, if a poorly maintained ceiling fell and caused collapse injury, you must show that negligence was the cause of the accident.
- Damages: Actual damages must have been sustained due to the collapse. These damages include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Tracking these damages is important to support your claim and get the compensation you deserve.
If you think you might have a case because of a ceiling collapse or unsafe conditions, you should talk to an experienced ceiling collapse lawyer in NYC. We will help you determine if you have a strong case and guide you through the process to get the compensation you need.
Damages You Can Recover
You might be entitled to various damages if you’ve been affected by a ceiling collapse or any other personal injury:
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the financial losses you’ve experienced from the ceiling collapse accident. This includes:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and any future medical care you might need.
- Lost Wages: Money you’ve missed out on because you couldn’t work while recovering.
- Property Damage: Expenses for repairing or replacing damaged property, like furniture or personal belongings affected by the collapse.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are for the more personal and emotional impacts of the injury. This includes:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injury has affected your ability to enjoy activities you once loved, you can seek damages for this loss.
- Emotional Distress: If the accident caused severe stress, anxiety, or depression, you might be entitled to compensation for these issues.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are not meant to compensate you but to punish the responsible party for particularly reckless or malicious behavior. These are awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions were especially harmful or egregious and aim to deter similar conduct in the future.
How to Get in Touch With Us
Getting in touch with us is simple and convenient:
- You can call us directly at (718) 650-2462 to speak with our team personally.
- You can also fill out our contact form online for a quick response
We offer a free consultation for ALL cases to discuss your situation and explore your options with no obligation.
Meet Your New York City Ceiling Collapse Attorneys
Paul Ajlouny
Paul Ajlouny is dedicated to helping clients navigate the challenges of personal injury cases. His commitment to each client is evident in the personalized attention he provides, ensuring that their legal journey is as smooth as possible.
A St. John’s University graduate, Paul began his career working with Daniel Galinson, a respected attorney in New York. Over the years, Paul has earned a reputation for delivering outstanding results, with his firm recovering over $150 million for clients.
Known for his tenacity and dedication, Paul fights tirelessly for his clients during their toughest times.
Michael Levitz
Michael Levitz is a respected personal injury attorney known for his strong litigation skills and dedication to his clients. He takes pride in educating his clients about the legal process and ensuring they are well-informed about what to expect.
He provides clients with his personal cell phone number, ensuring they can reach him anytime for updates or discussions about their cases. Michael is recognized for his efforts and has been named among the Top 40 National Trial Lawyers under 40 by The National Trial Lawyers Association.
Michael is determined to secure fair settlements for his clients and is prepared to go to court if necessary. His experience includes winning significant cases against large insurance companies with teams of lawyers and helping clients achieve successful outcomes.
How an Attorney From Our Firm Can Enhance Your Settlement
Engaging our experienced New York personal injury lawyers can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation through the following:
- Our knowledgeable attorney understands the complexities of New York's legal system. From filing paperwork to meeting deadlines and navigating courtroom procedures, a lawyer ensures your case progresses smoothly and efficiently.
- Our experienced personal injury lawyers specializing in ceiling collapses understand the evidence required for a successful claim. They can gather and present compelling evidence, such as witness testimonies, expert opinions, medical records, and documentation of damages, to strengthen your case and maximize your chances of securing a favorable settlement.
- Aljouny’s skilled lawyers can level the playing field by negotiating with insurance adjusters on your behalf. They know how to advocate for your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
- Determining the value of a ceiling collapse claim requires a thorough assessment of various factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and future care needs. Our seasoned lawyers can accurately evaluate the full extent of your damages and fight for a settlement that reflects the true value of your case.
- When selecting a lawyer, look for a proven track record of success. Our familiarity with these cases' unique challenges and complexities ensures you receive informed legal representation tailored to your situation.
- Choose a lawyer who prioritizes your best interests and communicates openly and transparently throughout the legal process. Our compassionate attorneys will listen to your concerns, address your questions promptly, and keep you informed about the progress of your case every step of the way.
Additional reading: apartment ceiling collapse - what to do next
Your First Steps After Your Ceiling Has Collapsed
If your ceiling has collapsed, acting quickly and carefully is essential to protect your health, rights, and future claims. Here’s what you should do:
- Get Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, seeking medical attention right away is important. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so a thorough medical evaluation is essential.
- Document the Scene with Photos and Video: Take photos and videos of the collapsed ceiling, the surrounding area, and any visible damage or injuries if you can. These can serve as valuable evidence later on. Capture different angles and focus on anything that shows the extent of the damage or potential causes.
- Contact a Ceiling Collapse Lawyer: It’s important to contact an experienced ceiling collapse lawyer from our law firm as soon as possible. We can guide you through the following steps, help you understand your rights, and start building your case. We will ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines and take the right actions to protect your claim.
- Report the Accident to Building Authorities: Immediately notify the building management, landlord, or property owner about the collapse. This step is essential for keeping an official record of the incident.
- Keep Track of All Expenses Related to Your Injuries: Keep detailed records of any expenses you incur from medical bills to repair costs due to the collapse. This includes transportation costs for medical visits, lost wages if you cannot work, and other related costs.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Representation: Insurance companies may contact you quickly after the incident, but it’s wise not to discuss details of the accident or your injuries without a lawyer. They might try to get you to settle for less than you deserve, so having legal representation is key.
- Preserve Any Physical Evidence: Keep any pieces of the collapsed ceiling or other physical evidence relevant to your case and continue with any recommended medical treatment. This will ensure your recovery and help document the full extent of your injuries.
Our experienced lawyers will be able to assist you every step of the way, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Delay in Starting Your Claim
If you've experienced a ceiling collapse, time is of the essence when it comes to pursuing a legal claim. In New York, there are strict time limits, known as the statute of limitations, that dictate how long you have to file a lawsuit.
Most ceiling collapse cases will fall under a three-year timeline before you will no longer be able to file a claim. However, this will depend on the specifics of your case — more on this below.
Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to seek compensation, so acting quickly is important.
Premises Liability Claims
For premises liability cases, which cover accidents due to unsafe or poorly maintained property conditions, the statute of limitations in New York is generally three years from the date of the accident.
This means you have a limited window to take legal action if your ceiling collapse was caused by a property owner or landlord’s negligence. Delaying your claim could make gathering evidence, locating witnesses, and building a solid case harder.
Product Liability Claims
If your ceiling collapsed due to a defective product, such as faulty construction materials or installation, you may have grounds for a product liability claim. In New York, the statute of limitations for product liability cases is also three years.
Starting your claim as soon as possible lets your lawyer thoroughly investigate the incident, secure evidence, and determine the best course of action. Whether your case involves premises liability, product liability, or both, delaying could jeopardize your ability to recover fair compensation.
Get in touch with our New York ceiling collapse lawyers today to advise on what your deadline is.
Key Evidence to Strengthen Your Case
Gathering the right evidence after a ceiling collapse is essential to building a strong case. The more detailed and timely your evidence, the better your chances of proving negligence and securing the compensation you deserve.
Here’s what you should start collecting as soon as possible:
- Photos and Videos of the Scene: Take photos and videos of the damaged ceiling, the surrounding area, and any injuries you’ve sustained. This visual evidence can clearly show the extent of the damage and help establish what caused the collapse.
- Medical Records: Seek medical attention immediately and keep all records related to your treatment. These documents are critical in proving the extent of your injuries and your medical expenses. Make sure to follow through with any prescribed treatments and save all related bills and receipts.
- Written Complaints to the Property Owner/Manager: If you reported any issues with the ceiling before the collapse, such as cracks, leaks, or other defects, make sure you have a copy of that complaint. A written complaint sent to the property owner or manager can prove that they were aware of the dangerous condition but failed to take action.
- Witness Statements: If anyone witnessed the ceiling collapse or the conditions leading up to it, try to get their contact information and a statement about what they saw. Witnesses can provide valuable third-party accounts that support your claim.
- Maintenance and Inspection Records: Request any maintenance or inspection records for the property. These documents can reveal whether the property owner or manager diligently maintained the ceiling and addressed any known issues.
- Reports to Building Authorities: If you reported the collapse to any local authorities or building inspectors, keep a copy of that report. This official documentation can help establish the severity of the incident and the failure of the responsible parties to maintain a safe environment.
- Expense Records: Keep track of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, and any other financial losses you’ve suffered. These records will be essential in calculating the full extent of your damages.
We understand that gathering evidence can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with a ceiling collapse's physical and emotional aftermath. That’s why it’s important to contact our ceiling collapse lawyers as soon as possible.
We can take on the burden of collecting and preserving evidence, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Our team is here to handle the hard work and ensure your case is as strong as possible so you can get the compensation you deserve without added stress.
What Can I Expect to Pay?
The last thing you want to worry about is how much it will cost to hire a lawyer. That’s why our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, making it easier for you to get the legal help you need without any upfront costs.
What Is a Contingency Fee?
A contingency fee model means you don’t pay anything out of pocket to hire us. Instead, our fees are contingent upon winning your case.
If we recover compensation on your behalf, we take a percentage of the settlement or verdict as our fee. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.
Benefits of a Contingency Fee Model
The contingency fee model offers several advantages:
- No Upfront Costs: You can pursue your claim without worrying about paying legal fees upfront or as your case progresses.
- Risk-Free: Since you only pay if we win your case, there’s no financial risk in seeking justice and compensation.
- Focus on Your Recovery: With no out-of-pocket expenses, you can focus on healing and moving forward without the added stress of legal bills.
- Access to Justice: This model makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of financial situation.
By choosing a law firm that works on a contingency fee basis, you can be confident that your lawyer is committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
We’re here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve—all without adding financial strain during an already difficult time.
Why Choose Us Over Other New York City Ceiling Collapse Attorneys?
When it comes to ceiling collapse cases in New York City, we believe in giving you the personal attention you deserve. Unlike big firms, we take the time to understand your situation and guide you through the legal process.
We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay anything upfront—we only get paid if we win your case. Our understanding of New York City’s construction and premises laws, combined with our dedication to your case, means you’ll have a strong advocate by your side, focused on getting the best outcome for you.
General Information on Ceiling Collapses in New York City
Ceiling collapses are a real concern in New York City. Dangerous situations are common in many older buildings, as well as construction problems and neglected maintenance.
Whether you’re a tenant, a property owner, or someone working in construction, knowing your rights and what steps to take is key when dealing with a ceiling collapse.
Liability in New York Ceiling Collapse Cases
Determining liability in New York involves assessing the responsibilities of various parties involved. The legal concept of premises liability is critical, holding these parties responsible for ensuring premises safety and preventing harm to occupants or visitors:
- Property owners may be liable if they knew of structural issues or other conditions that could lead to a collapse but did not address them.
- Landlords must regularly inspect the property, promptly address maintenance, and warn tenants of known hazards to avoid liability for injuries caused by a ceiling collapse.
- Contractors hired for construction, renovation, or maintenance work may also be liable if their actions contribute to a collapse. This could include improper installation of ceiling materials, failure to follow building codes, or inadequate repairs.
Premises liability holds property owners and occupiers responsible for injuries due to negligent maintenance or hazardous conditions. In ceiling collapse cases, premises liability applies if the property owner or occupier knew or should have known about a dangerous condition, such as a weakened ceiling, and did not take reasonable steps to address it.
To determine liability in cases of ceiling collapse, several factors must be taken into account:
- Whether the property owner or occupier was aware of or should have been aware of the hazard.
- Whether they had a duty to inspect and maintain the premises (more on below).
- Whether they took reasonable measures to prevent the collapse, such as conducting inspections, repairing structural defects, or providing adequate warnings to occupants.
Overall, liability depends on proving reckless actions by the responsible parties and establishing a causal link between their actions or omissions and the resulting injuries.
Common Causes of a Ceiling Collapse
Common causes of ceiling collapses in New York City often arise from a mix of factors, many of which are tied to the city's aging buildings and dense population.
- Water Damage from Leaks: Water damage is a leading cause of the gradual weakening of ceiling structural integrity.
- Poor Maintenance: Neglecting routine maintenance and repairs can turn minor issues into significant hazards.
- Construction Defects: Construction defects from the original build or later renovations further compromise ceiling stability.
- Accumulated Debris: The accumulation of debris, such as dust or deteriorating materials, can eventually lead to a ceiling giving way.
- Aging Infrastructure: The natural wear and tear of old buildings in densely populated areas increases the risk of collapse.
These risks are particularly heightened in New York City, where old buildings are closely packed together.
A recent case highlights the severity of these issues: a professional engineer in the city was barred from conducting facade inspections for two years due to alleged negligence after a partial building collapse in the Bronx displaced 170 residents and caused significant disruptions.
Types of Injuries We See as Lawyers
Ceiling collapses can result in a wide range of serious injuries, many of which have long-term impacts on the victims. In 2023 alone, seven workers tragically lost their lives in building construction-related incidents under the jurisdiction of the NYC Department of Buildings.
As accident lawyers handling these cases in New York City, we frequently see the devastating common ceiling collapse injuries that result from these incidents.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Falling debris or structural materials can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, or skull fractures. These are among the most severe outcomes, often requiring extensive medical treatment and leading to lasting cognitive or physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: A collapsing ceiling can cause significant damage to the spine, leading to herniated discs, fractures, or even paralysis. These injuries can drastically alter a person's life, necessitating long-term rehabilitation and care.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a ceiling collapse can result in broken bones, including fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis. These injuries often involve painful recovery periods and may require surgery.
- Lacerations and Cuts: Sharp debris from a collapsing ceiling can cause deep cuts and lacerations, sometimes leading to severe blood loss or infections if not treated promptly.
- Crush Injuries: In some cases, victims may be pinned under heavy debris, resulting in crush injuries that can damage muscles, nerves, and tissues, potentially leading to amputations or other permanent disabilities.
Serving The Entirety of New York City!
Our team is proud to serve clients across New York City and beyond. Whether you're in Brooklyn, Garden City, New York, Queens, or any other part of the city, we're here to provide expert legal support and representation for your ceiling collapse case.
Speak to an NYC Building Collapse Lawyer Today!
If you or a loved one has been affected by a ceiling collapse, it's important to speak with an experienced NYC building collapse lawyer as soon as possible. Our dedicated team is ready to provide the support and legal expertise you need to navigate your case.
Our lawyers at Ajlouny Injury Law are here to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the process.
Contact a personal injury lawyer today at (718) 521-2251, or use our contact form for a quick and convenient way to get in touch.
55 Broadway, 23rd Floor
New York, NY 10006
