Building Safety Issues to Keep in Mind When Choosing a New Apartment or Home

Are you planning on moving into a new apartment or home in the near future? If so, be sure to consider building safety issues when evaluating your options. This is key to optimizing the safety and well-being of yourself and your family.

Building safety issues can take many forms. Examples include fire hazards, structural concerns, and more. Specific issues you should account for when deciding where to live include:

Fire safety

This is an essential home safety issue. When looking at a new apartment, confirm the building has functioning smoke detectors and fire alarms. Ask if they are regularly inspected and maintained.

You should also ask if the building is equipped with sprinklers. If not, ask if there are any plans to install them. Be sure to identify fire exits as well.

Structural concerns

Structural concerns can pose a significant risk to the safety of a building’s occupants. When inspecting a new building in which you may plan to live, check for visible signs of damage or wear and tear. These may include cracks in the walls, uneven floors, or sagging ceilings.

You should also keep an eye out for signs of water damage or mold growth. Water damage can weaken the structure of a building.

Security

Security is another important consideration when choosing a new apartment or home. Make sure the building has secure entry and exit points, such as locked doors or gates, and that there is proper lighting around the building. Check to see if there are security cameras, and if so, if they are functioning and being monitored. Consider the surrounding neighborhood and its safety record, and inquire about any previous security incidents in the building.

Ventilation

A healthy living environment requires proper ventilation. If ventilation is poor, harmful gasses and chemicals may accumulate. This can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. Guard against this by confirming your home has an effective ventilation system.

Accessibility

Accessibility is a factor to account for when individuals have disabilities or mobility issues. Make sure the building has accessible entrances and exits, such as ramps or elevators. Also check to confirm that there is sufficient space for wheelchair users to navigate.

Natural disasters

Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods, can pose a significant threat to building safety. Research the likelihood of natural disasters in the area, and ask about the building’s history of being affected by them. Consider if the building has any specific measures in place to prepare for or mitigate the impact of natural disasters.

Taking all these measures can help you stay safe and comfortable in your new home. However, it’s important to understand that, on any property, there is the chance that you may be involved in an accident if those responsible for maintaining the property are negligent.

Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible to receive financial compensation if this ever happens to you. For more information, review your case with a lawyer. A Charlotte, NC premises liability attorney at Brown Moore & Associates, PLLC will explain your legal options. Get started today by contacting us online or calling us at 704-335-1500.