Premises Liability in Virginia
Injuries on someone else’s property? Virginia law depends on whether you were a trespasser, licensee, or invitee. Understanding the distinctions is key to your rights and potential recovery—or defending against a claim.
🚷 Trespassers
Landowners generally owe no duty of care to trespassers—unless:
- The trespassing is so frequent that the owner should know and warn of hazards; or
- The land contains a “dangerous instrumentality” accessible to children—like machinery or chemicals :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
👥 Licensees (Social Guests)
For social visitors, landowners must avoid active negligence and warn about hidden dangers if:
- The owner knows of the unsafe condition,
- The licensee is unaware of it,
- The owner fails to warn or make it safe :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}, and most liability shields don’t apply if the landowner knowingly lets you onto the property.
🌟 Invitees (Public or Business Guests)
Invitees—like customers or the public—receive the highest protection. Landowners must keep the property reasonably safe, inspect for hidden hazards, and warn visitors :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
⚖️ Exceptions & Limitations
Owners aren’t insurers, but they must act carefully. They owe no duty for obvious dangers, and statutes limit liability regarding recreational activities—unless gross negligence or a fee is involved :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
How Doummar Law Can Help
Our attorneys represent both claimants and landowners. We’ll:
- Assess your status (trespasser, licensee, invitee)
- Investigate notice, hazard visibility, and landowner action
- Gather evidence and work with experts on duty and negligence
- Pursue settlements or defend at trial in Virginia courts
We also handle related matters like construction defect and HOA disputes, delivering full-spectrum real estate legal support.
📞 Call (757) 422‑0061 or schedule a consultation to evaluate liability or defense — and protect your rights.
📢 Address Property Safety & Liability Concerns
Whether you’re injured or a property owner, Doummar Law provides experienced guidance in premises liability matters.
