Slip-and-fall injuries are a major lawsuit risk for commercial property owners. Regular inspections, clear documentation, strong leases, and proper liability insurance help reduce exposure.
Why Premises Liability Is a Serious Risk for Property Owners
One of the biggest risks commercial property owners face is a visitor getting injured on their property. A single slip, trip, or fall can quickly turn into a premises liability lawsuit seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or both.
Your legal defense often comes down to one key question:
Did you take reasonable steps to keep the property safe?
It’s also important to know that commercial property insurance does not cover bodily injury claims. Those claims fall under Commercial General Liability (CGL) coverage.
How to Prevent Accidents Before They Happen
Accidents can’t always be avoided—but many claims stem from preventable hazards.
Practical Steps You Can Take Today
1. Inspect Regularly
- Walk the property on a schedule (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Look for uneven walkways, loose handrails, poor lighting, and wet surfaces
Example:
Cracked concrete near a storefront entrance should be repaired before someone trips.
2. Fix Issues Promptly
- Address hazards as soon as they’re identified
- Use temporary warnings (cones, signage) until repairs are completed
3. Create Written Safety Procedures
- Document inspection and maintenance routines
- Keep policies clear, realistic, and easy to follow
Why this matters:
During a lawsuit, plaintiffs often request proof that safety procedures existed and were followed.
4. Train Employees and Vendors
- Encourage reporting of hazards
- Make sure maintenance staff know safety expectations
Understanding Your Legal Defense
California law does not require property owners to prevent every accident. Your responsibility is to use a reasonable level of care, based on what an average property owner would do under similar circumstances.
If you can show:
- Regular inspections
- Documented maintenance
- Prompt repairs
You are in a much stronger position to defend a claim.
What If the Property Is Rented to a Tenant?
In many cases, when a property is leased, the tenant may assume responsibility for day-to-day premises safety—especially for interior areas they control.
Protect Yourself with a Strong Lease
Your lease should clearly state:
- The tenant is responsible for maintaining safe conditions
- The tenant indemnifies the owner for injury claims
- The tenant must carry liability insurance and name the owner as additional insured
Insurance Is Your Financial Safety Net
Even with strong prevention efforts, claims can still happen. That’s why Commercial General Liability insurance is essential for commercial property owners.
CGL coverage helps with:
- Legal defense costs
- Settlements or court judgments
- Protection of personal and business assets
Local Guidance Matters
Since 1989, Neighborhood Insurance Agency has helped Santa Ana and Orange County property owners understand their liability risks and secure the right coverage. As an independent agency, we review multiple carriers to help you avoid coverage gaps and costly surprises.
👉 Contact us today for a free commercial liability review.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Reference
References (APA Style)
California Department of Insurance. (2024). Commercial insurance basics.
https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/95-guides/09-comm/commercialguide.cfm
Nolo. (2022). How Does a Premises Liability Injury Case Work?.
https://www.alllaw.com/articles/nolo/personal-injury/how-premises-liability-case-works.html?_gl=11ako6fz_gcl_auODg0Njk0NDExLjE3NjYxODYzMDM._gaMTAxOTYxMjQ1MC4xNzY2MTg2MzAz_ga_RJLCGB9QZ9*czE3NjYxODYzMDIkbzEkZzEkdDE3NjYxODczNTckajYwJGwwJGgw
Insurance Information Institute. (2024). Commercial general liability insurance.
https://www.iii.org/article/commercial-general-liability-insurance
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