Brooklyn Awning Collapse Highlights Urgent Need for Property Maintenance and Accountability

A terrifying incident unfolded in Brooklyn Heights early Sunday morning when a massive hotel awning collapsed over the entrance to the Clark Street subway station. Surveillance footage captured the moment the concrete and steel structure—part of the historic Hotel St. George—suddenly gave way, crashing onto the sidewalk below. Fortunately, no pedestrians were underneath at the time, but the outcome could have easily been tragic.

As building collapse attorneys who have represented victims in cases involving façade failures, structural defects, and sidewalk hazards, we know just how catastrophic these incidents can be. When owners and operators neglect their duty to maintain property—especially high-traffic areas like subway entrances—the public bears the risk.

Alarming Signs of Neglect

According to the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB), the 15-by-20-foot awning showed signs of extensive deterioration. Inspectors reported the supporting steel beam was completely corroded in several areas. The DOB is now investigating a second awning on the building that appears to have similar issues. Records also show multiple open violations dating back to 2021 related to the building’s façade, including one in violation of Local Law 11, which governs exterior wall inspections for buildings taller than six stories.

The building, currently operated by Educational Housing Services (EHS) as a dormitory facility, has reportedly been the subject of ongoing complaints regarding poor sanitation and maintenance. Councilmember Lincoln Restler noted that EHS has ignored outreach from both his office and the MTA.

Legal Responsibility for Unsafe Conditions

When façade elements or other exterior structures fall due to poor maintenance, the responsibility often lies with the property owner or managing agent. Under New York City law, building owners must conduct regular inspections and correct unsafe conditions. Failure to do so can amount to gross negligence—especially when the risks are foreseeable, as they appear to be here.

If someone had been walking into the subway entrance at the time of the collapse, the consequences would likely have been fatal. Falling debris from improperly maintained buildings has led to numerous injuries and deaths in NYC over the years. These incidents are preventable—and when they occur, victims and their families may have the right to pursue compensation.

Our Experience with Building Collapse Cases

Our falling object lawyers has successfully represented individuals injured due to unsafe structures. We understand the complexities of premises liability, building code violations, and how to hold negligent owners accountable—even when powerful institutions are involved.

Know Your Rights

If you or a loved one has been injured in a building collapse or hit by falling debris, it is critical to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. These cases require immediate investigation, preservation of evidence, and expert analysis of structural integrity and code compliance.

For more information, contact the building collapse attorneys at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf. We have been representing victims of catastrophic injury in New York , including Brooklyn, for over a century. Call us at 212-943-1090 for a free consultation.