Injuries caused by unsafe property conditions can have a devastating impact on your life. Whether you are a tenant in a rented home, a customer in a public space, or an employee in a workplace, you have a legal right to expect a safe environment. If that duty is breached and you are harmed, you may be entitled to make an unsafe property claim.
At Marley Solicitors, we support clients across Eton who have suffered because of dangerous property conditions. With years of experience handling premises liability claims, our expert solicitors will help you understand your legal rights and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you are entitled to.
What qualifies as an unsafe property?
An unsafe property is any premises that pose a health or safety risk due to poor maintenance, neglect, or hazards that should have been resolved by the property owner or occupier. These risks may include:
- Broken or uneven flooring
- Poor lighting in stairwells or hallways
- Loose or missing handrails
- Faulty electrical wiring
- Slippery or wet surfaces with no warning signs
- Falling debris from ceilings or rooftops
- Damaged steps, balconies, or roofing
- Exposure to toxic substances (such as asbestos)
Such hazards can cause serious physical harm and, in some cases, long-term disability or psychological trauma. If injury results from a known or foreseeable risk, the person or organisation responsible for the property may be held legally liable.
Legal basis for claiming compensation
Several key pieces of UK legislation establish the duty of care that property owners owe to visitors, tenants, and employees:
- Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 – Requires occupiers to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of visitors.
- Defective Premises Act 1972 – Allows tenants to claim if their landlord fails to maintain the premises safely.
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 – Employers must provide safe premises for staff and visitors.
- Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 – Places responsibility on landlords to maintain the structure and exterior of a rented property, including drains, pipes, and wiring.
When these duties are breached and an injury occurs as a result, a claim for compensation can usually be made.
Types of unsafe property claims in Eton
At Marley Solicitors, we handle a wide range of property-related personal injury claims, including:
Slips, trips, and falls
Slipping on wet floors without warning signs or tripping on damaged flooring is among the most common causes of personal injury. Falls can lead to broken bones, back injuries, or even head trauma.
Injuries in rented accommodation
Landlords in Eton are legally required to maintain their properties. If a tenant is injured due to unsafe conditions, such as faulty electricity, collapsing ceilings, or damp and mould, they may be entitled to a claim.
Work-related property hazards
Unsafe flooring, defective machinery, or unstable shelving in a workplace can result in serious accidents. Employers must ensure a safe working environment for all staff.
Accidents in public places
Shops, supermarkets, restaurants, and other public premises must keep their environment safe for customers. Failing to remove hazards or fix dangerous conditions may make them liable for any resulting injuries.
Common causes of injury on unsafe property
Understanding what leads to these claims is key to identifying whether you may be entitled to compensation. Common causes include:
- Water leaks or spills that are not cleaned promptly
- Poor lighting that makes obstacles difficult to see
- Insecure shelves or fittings that collapse
- Damaged or rotting staircases
- Missing or broken safety features such as smoke alarms
- Exposed wires or electrical faults
If the property owner or occupier knew or should have known about the risk and did not take reasonable steps to fix it, they could be held responsible.
Who is responsible for keeping a property safe?
Responsibility for an unsafe property usually falls to the person or entity in control of the premises. This can include:
- Private landlords – Responsible for maintaining the structure, electrics, and safety features of rented properties.
- Local councils or housing associations – Liable for social housing or council-owned properties.
- Commercial property owners or tenants – Must ensure their retail or office spaces are free from hazards.
- Employers – Required to conduct risk assessments and maintain a safe working environment.
- Property management companies – Tasked with maintaining communal areas in blocks of flats or housing estates.
In some cases, more than one party may share responsibility for an injury. Our solicitors can help determine who is liable and pursue compensation accordingly.
What should you do after an accident on unsafe property?
If you have suffered an injury on an unsafe property in Eton, follow these key steps to strengthen your claim:
- Seek medical attention – Your health comes first. Attend a local GP or hospital and request a medical report.
- Report the incident – Notify the property owner, landlord, or manager in writing.
- Take photographs – Capture the hazardous condition and your injury (if visible).
- Collect witness statements – Gather names and contact details of anyone who saw the incident.
- Keep records – Store medical bills, travel receipts, loss of earnings, and correspondence.
- Speak to a solicitor – Legal advice is vital for ensuring your claim is filed correctly and within time limits.
Where to get medical treatment in Eton
Eton residents who have been injured can access treatment from several nearby facilities, including:
- St Mark’s Hospital, Maidenhead – Offering urgent treatment and rehabilitation services
- The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust – Serving nearby areas with specialist care and diagnostics
- Windsor, Ascot and Maidenhead NHS services – A local provider of outpatient care and community health support
- Eton Dental Surgery and Eton House Surgery – For GP and dental appointments after an injury
These medical facilities can also provide documentation to support your personal injury claim.
What compensation can you claim?
If your unsafe property claim is successful, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- General damages – For pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Special damages – Covering financial losses such as:
- Medical treatment and prescription costs
- Loss of earnings and future income
- Travel expenses related to your injury
- Cost of care or mobility aids
- Home adaptations (if necessary)
The total amount will depend on the severity of the injury and the impact it has had on your life. Minor injuries might result in claims worth several thousand pounds, while serious, long-term injuries may lead to compensation of tens or even hundreds of thousands.
How long do you have to make a claim?
In most cases, personal injury claims must be brought within three years of the date of the injury. Exceptions apply in certain situations:
- Children – The three-year limit starts from their 18th birthday
- Lack of mental capacity – No time limit applies until capacity is regained
- Criminal injuries – Must be reported to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) within two years
Acting quickly improves your chances of success. Delays can lead to loss of evidence or missed deadlines.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for unsafe property claims in Eton?
Our legal team has a proven track record of helping clients in Eton and across Berkshire with unsafe property claims. We offer:
- Free initial consultations with expert solicitors
- No win, no fee service for qualifying cases
- Thorough investigation of liability and evidence
- Negotiation with insurers to maximise compensation
- Strong representation if the case goes to court
We pride ourselves on our local knowledge, compassionate service, and clear, jargon-free advice. With Marley Solicitors, you can expect trusted legal support from start to finish.
Can I claim for an injury in a public building in Eton?
Yes. If you were injured in a supermarket, shopping centre, restaurant, or other public building due to unsafe conditions, you may be able to make a claim. Public places have a legal obligation to keep visitors safe.
How much is an unsafe property claim worth in Eton?
Compensation varies widely depending on the type and extent of the injury, your recovery time, and any financial losses. As a rough guide:
- Minor injuries may result in compensation of £1,000–£5,000
- Moderate injuries may be worth £5,000–£20,000
- Severe or permanent injuries could lead to claims exceeding £50,000
Our team will give you a clearer estimate after reviewing your case.
Speak to Marley Solicitors today
If you have suffered an injury due to unsafe property conditions in Eton, don’t suffer in silence. Marley Solicitors is here to help you claim the justice and compensation you deserve. We offer a no win, no fee service and a free initial consultation.
Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced personal injury solicitors in Eton and find out how we can help you move forward with confidence.
