Construction injuries in and around New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) properties are alarmingly common.
Whether you’re a resident injured by an unsafe condition or a worker harmed on the job, the legal aftermath can be complicated. From addressing municipal liability to identifying negligent third-party contractors, recovering compensation isn’t straightforward.
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP (WRSMH), we help injured New Yorkers pursue justice through NYCHA construction injury lawsuits. Our team has decades of experience handling high-stakes injury claims against city agencies and private contractors alike.
Common Construction Hazards in NYCHA Properties
NYCHA manages nearly 2,500 residential buildings across the five boroughs. Many of these properties undergo ongoing repairs and capital improvements, often while tenants remain in residence.
Common hazards that lead to injury include:
- Ceiling collapse in NYCHA apartments due to prolonged leaks or deferred maintenance
- Elevator defect NYCHA complaints that result in sudden drops or malfunctions
- Poorly marked construction zones with tripping or falling hazards
- Scaffolding accidents and falling debris during façade repairs
- Unsecured tools and equipment left in common areas
Whether you are a tenant or worker, you have rights if you’re injured due to a construction-related hazard.
NYCHA Construction Injury Lawsuits for Tenants
Tenants injured by unsafe conditions in NYCHA buildings may have legal claims against:
- NYCHA itself, as the property owner and manager
- Private contractors performing repair or maintenance work
- Equipment providers, if defective machinery contributed to the incident
A successful tenant injury claim must show that:
- A hazardous condition existed
- The responsible party knew or should have known about the danger
- The party failed to fix the hazard within a reasonable time
- The tenant suffered a serious injury as a result
At WRSMH, we obtain inspection records, complaint logs, and maintenance histories to establish clear liability in ceiling collapses and similar NYCHA claims.
Third-Party Liability for Construction Workers
Construction and maintenance workers injured on NYCHA properties may initially seek benefits through workers’ compensation. But this doesn’t mean you can’t file a lawsuit.
If a third party, such as a subcontractor, property manager, or equipment manufacturer, contributed to your injury, you may be able to file a separate public housing worker injury claim.
Common legal issues include:
- Lack of fall protection on scaffolding or rooftops
- Exposure to hazardous materials like asbestos or mold
- Faulty tools or lift equipment causing accidents
- Inadequate lighting or security leading to assault or injury
New York Labor Law Sections 240 and 241 provide additional protection for workers injured due to elevation-related hazards or safety code violations. Our attorneys are well-versed in these powerful laws.
Tenant vs. Contractor Claims: Who Is Liable?
A common question in NYCHA construction injury lawsuits is whether the city, a contractor, or both can be liable. The answer depends on the situation.
- If NYCHA failed to monitor unsafe work or respond to known issues, it may be liable.
- If the contractor created the hazard through negligence, they may be directly liable.
- In some cases, multiple parties share responsibility and must be named in the claim.
Understanding these dynamics is essential to securing full compensation. WRSMH conducts a thorough investigation to determine all liable parties.
Steps to Take After a Construction Injury in a NYCHA Building
Whether you’re a tenant or a worker, the steps you take after your injury can greatly impact your legal options:
- Get Medical Treatment Immediately: Seek emergency care and follow up with a doctor. Accurate medical documentation strengthens your case.
- Report the Injury: Tenants should report the incident to NYCHA management and call 311. Workers should file a report with their employer and union.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazardous condition, the surrounding area, and any warning signs (or lack thereof).
- Identify Witnesses: Collect names and contact information for anyone who saw the accident or is aware of the unsafe condition.
- Contact a Construction Injury Attorney: Navigating claims against NYCHA or construction firms requires legal experience. Speak with WRSMH as soon as possible to preserve evidence and file timely legal notices.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
In a successful NYCHA construction injury lawsuit, injured tenants and workers may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Emotional distress and loss of quality of life
In worker cases, a third-party claim may provide much more than workers’ comp alone. Our attorneys fight to maximize every available source of recovery.
Why Choose WRSMH for Your NYCHA Construction Injury Case?
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we have been representing injured New Yorkers for over 50 years. Our team has recovered more than $2 billion for clients and has deep experience handling complex claims involving public agencies like NYCHA, offering:
- Free consultations with no obligation
- No fees unless we win your case
- Access to top safety experts and investigators
- Aggressive courtroom representation when needed
- Personalized attention every step of the way
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
Injuries involving public housing can involve strict deadlines. Claims against NYCHA typically require a Notice of Claim to be filed within 90 days of the incident. Failing to meet this deadline may forfeit your rights. Acting quickly by contacting a knowledgeable attorney is essential.
Speak With Our Experienced Construction Injury Lawyers Today
If you were injured as a tenant or worker due to unsafe construction conditions in a NYCHA building, you have rights. WRSMH is ready to help you understand your legal options and pursue maximum compensation.
Call (212) 986-7353 to schedule your free consultation with one of our top New York City construction injury attorneys today.