Troy has a mix of older housing stock, multi-unit apartments, and commercial spaces that see steady foot traffic—especially during busy seasons and local events. That combination can increase the odds of stairway hazards such as:
- Loose or uneven step surfaces in older buildings
- Worn tread grip in stairwells that don’t get replaced proactively
- Insufficient lighting in entryways, basement stairs, and common corridors
- Handrail issues (missing sections, poor anchoring, or incorrect placement)
- Cluttered landings from deliveries, seasonal items, or maintenance equipment
When these conditions exist, the legal question becomes whether the property owner (or the entity responsible for maintenance) kept the premises reasonably safe—and whether they had notice of the hazard.


