Can You Sue a Landlord for a Tenant’s Dangerous Dog?

If a landlord knew about a dangerous dog on their Georgia property, they may be liable if you were attacked. Whether a landlord can be held accountable depends on the circumstances. Share the specifics of your situation with an Atlanta dog bite lawyer.

Dog Owner Responsibility and Beyond

Georgia law typically places responsibility on the dog’s owner or keeper. If a dog attacks someone and the victim can show that the owner knew (or should have known) the dog was dangerous, the owner can be held liable for damages. This applies whether the owner lives in a house they own or in a rental unit.

For example, if a tenant’s dog has bitten before or has shown aggressive behavior, and the tenant fails to control it, the tenant may be liable for any resulting injuries.

Although landlords are not automatically responsible for a tenant’s dog, there are situations where they may share liability. A landlord might be held accountable if:

• The landlord knew the dog was dangerous. If the dog had a history of aggression and the landlord was aware of it, they may have a duty to act.
• Control over the premises. Should attacks occur in a common area (such as an apartment courtyard, lobby, or shared yard) a landlord maintains, liability may extend to them.
• There was a failure to enforce lease terms. When a lease prohibits dangerous breeds or requires tenants to remove aggressive animals, and the landlord ignores violations, this may open the door to a claim.

It’s important to note that each case is fact-specific. Courts will look at whether the landlord had actual knowledge of the danger and whether they had the ability to prevent the attack.

Proving a Landlord Should Be Held Accountable

Dog bite injuries can lead to significant expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, lost wages, and emotional trauma. If both the tenant and landlord are found responsible, you may be able to recover damages from both parties’ insurance coverage. This ensures that victims have access to the financial support they need to heal and move forward.

Holding a landlord accountable for a tenant’s dog bite requires strong evidence. Records of prior complaints about the dog’s behavior or testimony from neighbors who witnessed aggression could be needed to build a case.

Additionally, lease agreements outlining pet restrictions and evidence of a landlord failing to address known risks is key. Because Georgia law can be strict when it comes to proving liability, working with an experienced attorney is advised, too.

A dog’s owner is usually the first person held responsible after an attack, but landlords are not always off the hook. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite on rental property, an Atlanta dog bite lawyer can review your case and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Are you sure that the landlord was aware of the danger before you were bitten by a dog? Have a conversation about your compensation options with the attorneys at Zagoria Law. Contact us today.