Altus injury claims often involve premises that see frequent foot traffic—apartment common areas, local businesses with public access, and homes where guests come and go. That means the “unsafe condition” isn’t always a dramatic defect. It’s frequently:
- Lighting problems in entries and stairwell landings (especially during evening hours)
- Worn or slick treads from heavy use and cleaning routines
- Handrails that are loose, missing, or installed inconsistently
- Cluttered landings from deliveries, maintenance supplies, or seasonal items
- Uneven step heights that make the same stair “feel different” each trip
When these hazards persist, the legal question becomes whether the property owner or controller knew or should have known and whether reasonable care was taken to prevent falls.


