It is a substantial undertaking to own commercial or residential property. Illinois owners need the financial means to buy buildings and to construct them, but it is just as important to have an understanding of building codes. This is because failure to follow building codes could lead to bystanders, patrons or tenants becoming injured. If you are injured because of building code violations, you may require medical attention and could file a lawsuit against the building owners.
The purpose of building regulations is to ensure that commercial or residential structures are safe. Not following these codes compromises the safety of buildings. While owners may think that cutting corners only a little could not make a big difference, it may lead to faulty wiring, plumbing or stairs. Escalators or elevators might be defective, guardrails and handrails may be missing or loose, or balconies or porches could be unsafe because of building code violations. These faults and failures have the potential to cause accidents that lead to injury.
Commercial and residential building owners are expected to demonstrate reasonable care when maintaining their premises. This means that making illegal alterations and ignoring the dangers of not following building codes are considered negligent actions. Building owners who are deemed negligent could be held accountable, as could the managers whom the owners hire to ensure that their buildings are maintained properly.
In Illinois, you may be entitled to premises liability compensation if you are injured on commercial or residential property. The liability of the property owner could depend on the nature of the hazard, and the amount of compensation is based on your injuries, the financial damages that you suffered and other factors. For more information about injuries arising from these causes, you are invited to take a look at our premises liability page.