Buildings aren’t supposed to fall. When they do, it’s not an accident; it’s a warning sign that someone cut corners, ignored safety rules, or rushed a job they never should’ve approved. If you were hurt in a structural collapse, the law is on your side, but you’ll need the right New York City building collapse lawyer to make it work for you.
If you were hurt in a structural collapse, you're likely facing painful injuries, missed paychecks, and a long, uncertain road ahead. And yet, the ones who caused this accident are already working to protect themselves.
The Perecman Firm’s team of award-winning lawyers has been helping New Yorkers level the playing field against construction giants and their insurers for decades. We know that the stakes are high for you. That’s a responsibility we take to heart. It's also a fight we’re prepared to take on. If you're asking yourself how this happened and what comes next, you're on the right track. We can help you find the answers and the solutions you need. Call us today at (212) 977-7033 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
HOW IT WORKS
FREE CASE REVIEW
We'll discuss options for your immediate financial needs, assess if your case is worth pursuing, and estimate the timeline for full compensation.
AN IRONCLAD CASE
As your counsel, we thoroughly analyze all evidence and expert testimonies to build an ironclad case proving liability and the extent of your injuries.
BATTLE THE BULLIES
As your trusted advocate, we pursue the maximum compensation you deserve, standing firm against intimidation and unfair settlement offers.
NO FEES
UNLESS WE WIN YOUR CASE
The Perecman Firm’s NYC Building Collapse Attorneys Provide Relentless Advocacy
New York is a city built on strength. Steel, concrete, grit. But when shortcuts are taken and safety is overlooked, that strength can collapse in seconds. If you were injured in a building failure, whether on a jobsite or inside your home, you need a NYC building collapse lawyer who knows exactly how to hold the right people accountable.
Every injured New Yorker deserves a law firm that fights like their future depends on it—because it does. Here’s how The Perecman Firm stands out from the rest:
We defeat the bullies
New York construction companies and insurance corporations work fast to protect their profits when something goes wrong. Their goal is to minimize your payout. Our goal is to maximize it.
We’ve gone toe-to-toe with some of the biggest names in the industry, forcing them to pay what our clients truly need to recover and restore life as much as possible. Our track record includes multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements for construction and collapse accidents, including $19 million for a worker struck by a falling beam.
We deliver personalized support backed by deep resources
At The Perecman Firm, you're not a case number. You’re family. Our team builds close relationships with clients and fights as if the injuries happened to our own loved ones. We have the resources to bring in structural engineers, construction experts, and medical professionals to build a compelling case that proves fault and gives you the best chances of obtaining maximum compensation.
We know New York construction law inside and out
From the scaffolding rules in Labor Law 240 to the general safety obligations under Labor Law 200, we know how to use New York’s labor laws to harness the power of the civil justice system and make it work for you. We’ve successfully represented workers from high-rises in Manhattan to demolition sites in Brooklyn. If you're eligible for a third-party lawsuit, we’ll pursue it aggressively.
We work on a contingency fee basis—no win, no fee
You won’t pay us anything upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. That means our goals are fully aligned with yours. We're invested in getting you the best possible result. You can focus on your recovery while we focus on holding the responsible parties accountable.
Key Takeaways: NYC Building Collapse Accidents
- Building collapses often stem from structural defects, water damage, poor design, or overloaded construction materials.
- Property owners and contractors have a legal duty to ensure structural integrity and compliance with NYC building codes.
- Collapse victims may suffer spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or crush injuries requiring long-term care.
- Injured construction workers may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits and third-party personal injury lawsuits.
- Labor Laws 200, 240, and 241 offer unique legal protections for injured construction workers in New York.
- A successful claim can cover lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and future loss of income.
- The Perecman Firm helps collapse victims hold negligent parties accountable and pursue maximum compensation.
What Causes Building Collapses in New York City?
NYC’s dense construction landscape means buildings are constantly going up, coming down, or being renovated. But when shortcuts are taken or codes ignored, the consequences can be deadly. Our law firm has handled collapse cases involving both commercial sites and residential buildings, from scaffolding collapses in Chelsea to ceiling collapses in Bronx apartment bathrooms.
Contributing factors include:
- Poor structural design or engineering flaws: Mistakes in architectural plans or oversight by structural engineers can compromise a building’s integrity from the start.
- Substandard construction materials: Using defective or flimsy materials can lead to sudden failure.
- Foundation problems: A compromised foundation may cause the entire structure to tilt, crack, or collapse.
- Improper demolition procedures: Cutting corners during demolition puts workers and bystanders at serious risk.
- Ignored maintenance needs: Leaking pipes, water damage, or untreated mold can weaken support beams and ceilings over time.
- Deviations from the original building plan: Unauthorized changes can disturb load-bearing walls or stress other parts of the building.
We investigate every collapse with meticulous attention, reviewing maintenance records, permit histories, blueprints, and inspection reports to pinpoint exactly what went wrong.
Who’s Liable for a NYC Building Collapse?
Determining who is legally responsible in a building collapse case is complex. In many situations, more than one party can be held accountable for failing to follow NYC’s strict building codes or OSHA safety regulations.
Common parties held liable include:
- Property owners
- General contractors and subcontractors
- Structural engineers
- Architects
- Material suppliers
- Demolition companies
- Equipment and tool manufacturers
Under New York Labor Law 200, owners and contractors are required to provide a safe work environment. Labor Law 240, known as the Scaffold Law, demands that proper safety devices be used during construction. Labor Law 241 further extends protections for demolition and excavation workers.
Violations of any of these laws can form the basis for a lawsuit and make the responsible parties legally liable for your injuries from building collapse.
Common Injuries in Building Collapse Accidents
Injuries can be catastrophic when a building gives way, whether it’s a total collapse or a partial cave-in, like a bathroom ceiling. Many collapse victims require long-term rehabilitation, surgery, or even permanent disability accommodations.
Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Amputations and severe crush injuries
- Organ damage and internal bleeding
- Compound fractures and broken bones
- Burns and lacerations from debris or chemical exposure
- Nerve damage and chronic pain
Our legal team of NYC personal injury lawyers works with medical experts to evaluate the full extent of your injuries, future medical needs, and the long-term financial impact on your life.
Legal Options for Building Collapse Compensation in NYC
If you were injured in a building collapse in New York City, you may be eligible for multiple forms of compensation depending on your role and the circumstances of the accident. Our NYC building collapse attorneys evaluate every case from every legal angle to identify all sources of recovery, whether it’s workers’ compensation, a third-party personal injury lawsuit, or both.
Workers' compensation for construction collapse victims
If you were working at the time of the structural collapse, you may be eligible for benefits through your employer’s workers’ compensation policy. These benefits can include:
- Medical care, surgery, and rehabilitation expenses
- Weekly payments for lost wages
- Permanent disability benefits for lasting injuries
- Death benefits for surviving family members
Filing for workers' comp does not require proving fault. But it may not cover everything, especially if your injuries are severe.
Third-party lawsuits and New York Labor Law protections
Workers injured due to violations of Labor Law 200, 240, or 241 may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to receiving workers' compensation. These third-party claims can provide more extensive compensation, including:
- Full reimbursement for medical expenses and out-of-pocket costs
- Compensation for lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering damages
- Emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life
Our legal team of construction accident attorneys investigates each case to determine whether safety violations, defective equipment, or construction errors caused the collapse and who can be held liable. These cases often involve detailed analysis of building codes, safety records, and expert reports from construction and structural engineering professionals.
How Long Do You Have to File a NYC Building Collapse Claim?
Timing is everything in these cases. If you miss the legal deadline, you may lose your right to compensation altogether.
Workers' compensation deadlines
You must notify your employer of the accident within 30 days. After that, you have up to two years from the date of the collapse to file your claim with the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board.
Personal injury lawsuit statute of limitations
If you are eligible to file a claim for third-party liability after a NYC building collapse, or if you were a resident or bystander injured by a structural collapse, New York allows you three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties.
However, exceptions apply. If the collapse involved a city-owned building or public agency, you may need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days.
Don’t risk missing your window to recover compensation. Contact our NYC building collapse lawyers as soon as possible so we can protect your rights from day one.
What to Do After a Building Collapse Injury in NYC
Once you’ve gotten emergency medical care, or if you're still undergoing treatment, the next steps you take can have a major impact on your future. A structural collapse isn’t just a health crisis. It’s also a legal matter that may involve building owners, general contractors, construction companies, and insurance carriers all trying to protect their own interests.
If you haven’t seen a doctor yet, don’t wait. Some injuries, especially internal or neurological ones, may not show up immediately. Getting a full medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries and ties them directly to the collapse—something insurance companies will challenge if you delay.
Aside from medical care, there are key steps to protect your legal rights and strengthen your claim:
Hire a lawyer
Your first call after medical care should be to an experienced NYC building collapse lawyer. A skilled attorney can act quickly to preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and protect you from being taken advantage of by insurance companies or opposing legal teams. Don’t wait. Early action often makes the biggest difference.
Keep all medical appointments and follow your treatment plan
Insurance adjusters look for gaps in treatment as a way to argue that your injuries aren’t serious. By attending every appointment, filling prescriptions, and following through with rehab, you strengthen your case and improve your recovery at the same time.
Journal your pain levels and recovery process
Use a daily written or video journal to document your pain, mobility limitations, sleep issues, and emotional struggles. These first-hand accounts create a record that helps juries and insurance companies fully grasp what you’re living through and why fair compensation matters.
Save physical evidence and key documents
If you have any photos or videos from the collapse scene, damaged safety gear, or torn clothing, store them safely. Also, save all medical bills, pay stubs showing lost wages, written work restrictions, and any emails or letters from insurance representatives.
Avoid direct communication with insurance companies
You are not required to give a recorded statement or sign anything without legal advice. Insurance adjusters may sound friendly, but their goal is to minimize payouts. Let your lawyer handle every call, email, or negotiation. They know how to protect your claim and future.
Taking these steps not only protects your rights but puts you in the strongest position to pursue full and fair compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Building Collapse Accidents
What if my apartment ceiling collapsed—do I have a case?
Yes, if you suffered injuries due to a ceiling collapse in a residential or commercial building, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the building owner or maintenance company, depending on the cause.
What are my rights if I was injured as a non-worker in a building collapse?
If you were a tenant, visitor, or bystander injured in a structural collapse, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the building owner, property manager, or any responsible third party.
You have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. These cases typically fall under premises liability, and proving negligence is key—something an experienced NYC building collapse lawyer can help with.
Can I still file a claim if the building was under demolition when it collapsed?
Yes. Whether the building was under construction, renovation, or demolition, you may still have a valid claim if safety protocols weren’t followed or structural errors were made. New York Labor Laws impose specific duties during demolition work, and failure to meet those standards can make owners, contractors, or engineers liable for any resulting injuries.
How do I prove the building collapse wasn’t my fault?
You don’t have to prove it alone. A thorough investigation is essential. Your attorney can gather maintenance logs, inspection reports, construction blueprints, and expert opinions from structural engineers to identify what went wrong and who is legally responsible. Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident, New York law allows you to recover damages under comparative fault.
What if I’m undocumented—can I still file a claim for my injuries?
Yes, your immigration status does not affect your right to file a personal injury or workers’ compensation claim in New York. You are still protected under state labor laws, including those that apply to construction workers. Our legal team handles many cases for undocumented workers and will fight to protect your rights without putting your status at risk.
What types of records can help my case?
Keep medical records, maintenance complaints, inspection reports, and photos of the damage. These documents help us build a strong case against negligent building owners or contractors.
Let The Perecman Firm Fight for You
The days and weeks after a collapse accident are some of the most difficult you’ll ever face. You may be overwhelmed with medical appointments, unable to work, and unsure of how to move forward. At The Perecman Firm, our NYC building collapse attorneys step in to take the burden off your shoulders. We handle every part of the legal process—from filing paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies—so you can focus on healing.
We’ve recovered nearly a billion dollars for injured New Yorkers and their families. Our law office is located in Midtown Manhattan, just steps from Columbus Circle, and we serve clients across all five boroughs, including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and Long Island.
Let us put our knowledge, compassion, and trial experience to work for you. Whether your accident involved a collapsed high-rise, a failed support beam, or a bathroom ceiling that gave way without warning, we’re ready to help you seek justice.
Call us now at The Perecman Firm at (212) 977-7033 or contact us online for a free consultation. We don’t charge any fees unless we win your case.