New York Balcony Collapse Accident Lawyer
Injured in a Balcony, Deck, or Porch Collapse in NYC? Greenstein & Pittari, LLP Can Help
Balconies, decks, and porches are sought-after features in New York City’s residential and commercial buildings. But when these elevated structures are poorly built or improperly maintained, they can collapse without warning—leading to catastrophic injuries or even death.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a balcony collapse accident in New York City, the experienced NYC premises liability attorneys at Greenstein & Pittari, LLP are ready to help. Our firm aggressively pursues compensation for victims across Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island.
Common Causes of Balcony Collapses in NYC
Balcony and deck collapses are usually preventable. These incidents often stem from negligence by property owners, landlords, or contractors. Common causes include:
- Overloading beyond weight capacity
- Rotten or decayed wood (e.g., dry rot or termite damage)
- Rusted connectors, loose railings, or corroded metal brackets
- Poor construction or architectural design flaws
- Substandard or defective building materials
- Inadequate maintenance or ignored repair requests
- Water damage, mold, or structural erosion
- Violations of NYC Building Code or missed inspections
Under New York City building regulations, property owners have a legal duty to ensure balconies and elevated structures are safe. Violations of these responsibilities can result in premises liability claims.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Balcony Collapse in New York?
Multiple parties may be responsible for a balcony collapse in NYC:
- NYC property owners or landlords
- Building management companies
- General contractors and subcontractors
- Structural engineers and architects
- Construction companies
- Airbnb or short-term rental hosts
- NYC building inspectors or agencies
- Manufacturers of defective construction materials
Our New York premises liability lawyers work with building code experts, engineers, and accident reconstruction specialists to determine the cause of the collapse and establish fault.
Serious Injuries Caused by Balcony Collapses
Victims of structural collapses in New York often suffer devastating, life-changing injuries, including:
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Multiple fractures (arms, legs, hips, ribs)
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Crush injuries or amputations
- Disfigurement or permanent disability
- Fatal injuries (wrongful death claims)
These injuries often require emergency surgery, long-term medical care, physical rehabilitation, and result in extended time away from work. Our New York balcony collapse attorneys can help you recover full compensation for your losses.
What to Do After a Balcony Collapse Injury in New York
If you were injured in a balcony, deck, or porch collapse in New York, take these steps immediately:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
- Take photos and videos of the scene before repairs are made.
- Collect names and contact information from witnesses.
- File an incident report, if applicable.
- Avoid speaking with building staff or insurance agents about fault.
- Contact a New York personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Evidence may be destroyed quickly. A prompt investigation by your attorney is essential to preserve your rights.
Your Rights Under New York Premises Liability Law
Under New York premises liability law, building owners and landlords must keep their premises in a reasonably safe condition. If they knew—or should have known—about a dangerous condition (such as a deteriorating balcony) and failed to fix it, they can be held liable.
To win a claim, you must prove:
- The defendant owed a legal duty of care;
- That duty was breached by negligence;
- The breach directly caused your injuries;
- You suffered measurable damages.
Even if you were injured at a friend’s home or a short-term rental, you may be able to file a homeowners insurance claim.
Compensation in a NYC Balcony Collapse Lawsuit
Victims of balcony and deck collapses in New York may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Emergency and ongoing medical expenses
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Lost income and diminished earning potential
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental trauma
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Funeral expenses and wrongful death claims
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we work with medical and financial experts to calculate the full extent of your losses and pursue maximum compensation.
Deadlines to File a Balcony Collapse Claim in New York
Strict time limits apply to personal injury claims in New York:
- Personal injury claims: 3 years from the date of injury (CPLR § 214)
- Wrongful death claims: 2 years from the date of death (EPTL § 5-4.1)
- Claims against public entities (e.g., NYCHA):
- File a Notice of Claim within 90 days
- File a lawsuit within 1 year and 90 days
Missing a deadline can bar your right to recover compensation. Speak to a New York balcony collapse lawyer as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Balcony Collapse Lawsuits
Can I sue my landlord if the balcony collapsed?
Yes. Landlords and building owners in NYC have a duty to maintain safe conditions for tenants and guests.
What if the building passed inspection?
Even if a building passed inspection, owners may still be liable if they ignored visible defects or failed to maintain the structure.
What if I was injured at a friend’s home?
You can still file a claim. Most cases are paid by the homeowner’s insurance—not your friend personally.
Will my case go to trial?
Most personal injury cases in NYC settle out of court, but our lawyers are prepared to go to trial if needed.
How much does a lawyer cost?
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP?
- Experienced New York City personal injury attorneys
- Offices in Harlem and throughout NYC
- Decades of success in premises liability and structural collapse cases
- Free consultations
- Hundreds of positive client reviews and testimonials speak for themselves
- Top-Rated, Award-Winning Lawyers – Best Lawyers & Super Lawyers
- No Fee Unless We Win
- Bilingual staff ready to serve NYC’s diverse communities
Speak with a New York Balcony Collapse Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a balcony, deck, or porch collapse in New York City, don’t wait. The attorneys at Greenstein & Pittari, LLP will act quickly to investigate the accident, preserve evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) today for a free consultation with a trusted New York balcony collapse lawyer.