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Boston Inadequate Security Attorney

When you visit an apartment building, parking garage, nightclub, or business in Boston, you have a right to feel safe. But when property owners fail to provide basic security measures—like working locks, proper lighting, or trained personnel—they put everyone at risk.

 

If you’ve been injured in an assault, robbery, or other incident due to inadequate security, you may have a right to hold the property owner accountable. At DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers, our personal injury lawyers provide compassionate, experienced legal representation for victims of negligent security. Our team understands the trauma these incidents cause and is here to help you pursue justice and financial recovery.

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Reviewed by: Christopher DiBella

July 21, 2025

Key Takeaways
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  • Injuries from assaults or acts of violence on poorly secured property may lead to premises liability claims.
  • Compensation can include medical treatment, therapy, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
  • DiBella Law thoroughly investigates security failures and ensures property owners are held accountable.

What Is Negligent Security Under Massachusetts Law?

Negligent security is a legal concept that falls under the broader category of premises liability—the responsibility property owners have to maintain safe conditions for those lawfully on their premises. In Massachusetts, this duty is outlined in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 231, Section 85, which holds property owners accountable if their failure to take reasonable care results in injury to others. When it comes to security, that means taking steps to protect guests and tenants from foreseeable criminal acts, especially in areas where prior incidents have occurred or risks are well-known.

Negligent security cases typically arise when someone is harmed because a property lacked basic and reasonable safety measures. Examples include:

  • inadequate lighting in stairwells or parking lots
  • broken or missing locks on entryways
  • malfunctioning surveillance equipment
  • or the absence of trained security personnel in high-risk locations

These oversights can create an environment where violent crimes like assaults and robberies are more likely to happen.

At DiBella Law, we understand how devastating these situations can be, and we work to hold negligent property owners accountable so our clients can focus on healing and recovery. If you have been the victim of negligent security in Boston and you believe the incident could have been prevented with additional security measures, you need to contact DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers, at (617) 663-0665. Your initial consultation is free, and you are under no obligation to pursue a case with us after this meeting.

How DiBella Law Helps Victims of Negligent Security in Boston

  • Local Insight into Boston Law and Safety Risks: We understand the legal responsibilities property owners face under Massachusetts law, and we know the areas in Boston where negligent security is a recurring issue.
  • Proven Experience With Landlord and Commercial Property Claims: From apartment complexes to bars and shopping centers, we have recovered millions for our clients. We help Bostonians like you take on negligent landlords and business owners after preventable attacks and assaults.
  • Thorough Investigation to Prove Negligence: Our team gathers police reports, surveillance footage, past complaint records, and expert analysis to show the property owner should have anticipated the danger.
  • Compassionate Representation for Serious Injuries: Whether you were assaulted, robbed, or suffered emotional trauma from the incident, we’re here to advocate for your full recovery with empathy and respect.
  • Technology That Makes Legal Help Easy: We offer online case evaluations, Zoom consultations, and secure messaging—so you can get help wherever you are, without added stress.
  • No Win, No Fee + 30-Day Risk-Free Trial: We don’t charge you unless we win, and you can cancel within 30 days with no obligation—because your peace of mind matters.

We’ve offered crucial support and guidance to individuals who have suffered injuries, ensuring their financial and emotional well-being.

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What Areas Are of Concern in Boston?

With nearly three-quarters of a million people residing in Boston, there may always be some crime in the city. And most residents know that certain areas present a greater risk. But there are also places where the responsibility falls to property owners and management to provide a reasonably safe environment for the general public. Some critical areas requiring security include:

  • ATMs. There are over 50 ATMs within just two miles of City Hall, and most patrons are taking money out of these machines, making them easy targets for criminals.
  • Parking structures. On-street parking can be scarce in Boston, so parking decks and structures provide a needed service. But they also provide many places for would-be assailants to lurk, waiting for potential victims.
  • College campuses. College campuses are designed to be pedestrian-friendly, but they also provide many places for an attacker to hide while waiting for someone to pass by.

Pedestrians in Boston are particularly at risk when walking alone and at night. It is always wise to look for well-lit areas, paths, or venues with security cameras and personnel. In addition, take note of areas that are normally controlled-access, such as apartment buildings or commercial buildings, when a door latch is broken or a door is propped open. This is a good indication the area is no longer secure.

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Was the Property Owner Negligent?

At first glance, you might have believed a property owner was meeting his or her responsibility to provide a reasonable level of security to you. But many factors can show that the need for security was not met. Burned-out light bulbs, which leave a doorway or hallway dark or dimly lit, are the fault of the property owner or the management company. Broken door latches, locks, or handles are also items that should be reported and fixed immediately. And broken or vandalized cameras are also security issues, which could allow a person to become a victim of assault, robbery, or worse.

If you have been a victim of a crime in Boston and believe the property was not secure, contact the personal injury lawyers at DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers A single call can schedule your free consultation with our skilled Boston premises liability lawyers to discuss the merits of your premises liability case and how to receive compensation for your loss. Call (617) 663-0665 today.

Get in touch with us today to get a free consultation.

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