Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Virginia

Vehicle Damaged in Office Parking Lot

My vehicle was broken into and a set of expensive golf clubs was stolen from the back of my SUV. This happened at my office parking garage. Access to the garage is generally limited to people who have electronic cards that open that gate. Recently, there has been contruction going on just outside the main entrance of the garage, therefore the gates are permanently open, however, no car access is possible through those door. Traffic has been re-routed to an alternate entrance which is still protected by a gate with electronic card access. I have been parking there for about a year and have never seen security patrolling the garage. I have heard recently that the property manager will be installing cameras and additional security equipment to monitor the area. Also, I have not heard of any other vandalism in the garage ever. My question is whether I can sue the property management company or parking garage management company is liable for my loss. Of the information given, what emphasis should I make to make my case stronger? I appreciate ANY advice. Thanks,

--name removed--


Asked on 10/10/03, 8:02 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Vehicle Damaged in Office Parking Lot

Yes, you could sue the business entity(ies) reponsible for garage security in small claims court or its equivalent for the losses which you have incurred due (presumably) to their negligence.

In your suit you might wish to emphasize the negligent failure of those responsible to take precautionary measures when the gate to the facility remained open as a result of the construction work, if it appears that this failure was the likely cause which allowed the thief to gain access to the facility and to break into your vehicle.

Of course, before filing your suit, you will want to first contact the potential defendant(s)

and present your claim for possible settlement.

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Answered on 10/10/03, 10:15 am


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