What duty does an occupier owe to an Invitee?

An occupier owes a duty of care to an invitee that requires them to make the premises safe for the invitee's use. This means that the occupier must take reasonable steps to ensure that the property is free from hazards that could cause harm to the invitee. This duty goes beyond simply not setting traps or notifying the invitee of unusual dangers; it involves actively maintaining the premises and addressing any potential risks that could lead to injury.

For instance, if there are known issues such as slippery floors, broken stairs, or other unsafe conditions, the occupier must either fix these issues or provide adequate warnings to the invitee. This standard reflects the higher level of responsibility that is placed on the occupier due to the invitee's reliance on the safety of the premises while conducting their activities. By fulfilling this obligation, the occupier helps ensure a safe environment for guests and mitigates the risk of legal liability arising from injuries.