01Identify the property and the condition before choosing a claim
Write down the precise address, entrance, stairwell, floor or sidewalk segment involved. A building’s location alone does not identify the legally responsible party. Ownership, leases, maintenance duties and control can all require investigation.
Explain what caused your injury: a recurring leak, damaged step, snow or ice, inadequate lighting or another condition. Ask a lawyer what evidence is needed about creation of the hazard or notice of it. These questions are fact-specific.
02Private-property claims and the general three-year period
New York CPLR § 214 generally provides three years for personal-injury actions, but it is not a universal deadline for every injured person or defendant. Exceptions and other claim types can change the result.
Even when a general limitation period is years away, footage can be overwritten and a defect can be repaired quickly. Early evidence preservation is a separate priority from filing suit.
03Public property can require action much sooner
The NYC Comptroller explains that personal-injury notices of claim against the City generally must be filed within 90 days of the incident. Its guidance also describes a one-year-and-90-day lawsuit deadline, with additional procedural requirements.
Do not apply the City’s procedure automatically to every transit authority, public hospital or other government entity. Tell a lawyer which entity may be involved and request prompt advice about the correct notice and filing requirements.
04Bring a location-specific evidence record
For an apartment injury, preserve earlier repair requests, dated messages and landlord or management responses. For a store injury, keep receipts and incident-report information. For a sidewalk injury, photograph the wider area as well as the defect, if safe.
- Exact accident location and date, including nearby addresses or identifying features.
- Photos showing the condition, lighting and surrounding area.
- Witness details and prior written complaints you already possess.
- Medical documentation, expenses and work restrictions.
- Any notice or correspondence involving a public entity.
Common questions
Can I wait three years after a fall on public property?
Do not assume that. A claim involving New York City can require notice within 90 days, and other public entities have their own requirements. Ask for individual legal advice immediately.
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Sources
We link to primary and official sources so you can check the details yourself. Laws change; confirm current rules with a licensed attorney.
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