Premises Liability

Common measurements may include tread depth, riser height, variation between steps, landing dimensions, handrail height and continuity, changes in elevation, and the condition or slope of walking surfaces. The measurements that matter depend on the stair configuration and the condition being investigated. When code compliance is at issue, the documented dimensions should be compared with the code provisions and edition applicable to the property at the relevant time rather than assuming that current requirements governed the original construction or later modification.

Often, yes. Earlier photographs, surveillance footage, inspection reports, maintenance requests, drawings, invoices, communications, and dated repair records can be compared with later site observations to reconstruct how the property changed over time. This chronology can help distinguish features documented at the time of the incident from conditions created by later repair, replacement, resurfacing, or other modification. A later repair does not by itself establish that the earlier condition was defective or unsafe, and whether evidence of subsequent repairs is legally admissible or usable depends on the applicable evidentiary rules.