Negligent Security Claims in Washington: When Property Owners Fail to Protect You

When a person is assaulted, robbed, or otherwise harmed by a third party on a business or residential property, the property owner may share responsibility if inadequate security made the attack foreseeable and preventable. These are negligent security claims.

The Foreseeability Question

Owners can be liable when a criminal attack was reasonably foreseeable — for example, in an area with a history of similar crime — and the owner failed to provide reasonable security measures.

Prior incidents on or near the property are key evidence of foreseeability.

What Reasonable Security Looks Like

Depending on the setting, reasonable measures might include lighting, locks, cameras, security personnel, or controlled access. The failure to provide them when warranted can support a claim.

Apartment complexes, parking garages, hotels, and bars are common settings.

Building the Case

These claims require showing the foreseeability of harm and the inadequacy of security. Crime data, prior complaints, and security expert analysis help.

If you were harmed due to inadequate security in Washington, a free case review can evaluate your claim.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Washington attorney.