New York City is known for many things, but well-maintained buildings never seem to make it on the list. Having been founded in 1624, New York City is one of the oldest cities in the country, and some apartments look like they haven’t been maintained since then. In buildings where ceiling repairs get neglected, there is the potential for the ceiling to collapse.
Whether you experienced a ceiling collapse in your own apartment, someone else’s apartment, a restaurant, or workplace, you may be entitled to compensation. If a ceiling collapses on you, there are a few things you should do afterward in order to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve:
- Seek medical attention. Your health and wellness come first. If you feel pain or believe you need emergency medical assistance, call an ambulance to take you to the hospital.
- Take pictures. Take photos of the ceiling and all other damages or injuries caused by the collapse. The more photos you can take detailing the damage, the better.
- Compile proof of neglect. Collect any proof that you previously complained about any ceiling damages or requested repairs to your ceiling, like letters, emails, text messages, or dates of phone calls.
- Preserve evidence. Clumps of sheetrock or concrete that fell from the ceiling may be used as evidence, so keep them on hand during your case.
- Contact a Bronx ceiling collapse attorney right away. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner that lawyer will be able to begin an investigation and start building your claim to ensure the best outcome for your case.
Regardless of the building’s quality, a ceiling collapse could happen anywhere if the landlord is neglectful. A failure to alleviate plumbing issues in upper units could weaken any ceiling and leave it susceptible to falling on you, causing severe injuries to you and damages to your home. Even a small piece of ceiling falling has the potential to cause a head or neck injury and rack up medical bills.