Cellar Fall Accident Claims in England and Wales

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Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

Can You Claim Compensation Injured in a Cellar Fall?

If you’ve been injured falling into a cellar, you may be eligible to make a cellar fall accident claim in England and Wales. A cellar fall accident at work is one of those incidents at work which happens suddenly. However, if an employee falls into an open cellar hatch or slips on poorly maintained cellar stairs and employee negligence contributed to the accident, there may be grounds to claim compensation for a work injury.

If this has happened to you, or a loved one, we explain how and when you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim. It’s important to know that there is a three year time limit from the date of the accident, or from when you fitst became aware of an injury caused by the accident.

Where Do Typical Cellar Fall Accidents Happen?

Cellar areas are often used for deliveries, stock rotation, maintenance or storage, they can present serious hazards such falling from height. In fact, according to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height continue to be the most common cause of fatal injuries in 2025/26.

Poor lighting, uneven steps, slippery surfaces, unsecured hatches and restricted space all increase the risk of injury. A cellar fall accident can result in severe injuries and these accidents tend to occur in:

• Hospitality venues such as pubs, bars, restaurants and hotels such as moving kegs.
• Retail premises with basement storage for stock.
• Commercial buildings with underground plant rooms.
• Warehouses with cellar access points.
• Older buildings with narrow or steep cellar staircases.

Real Life Example of a Cellar Fall Accident

Ann example of just how serious a cellar fall can be was highlighted by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health which reported on an incident in 2021 when a pub was fined £60,000 after a worker fell into a cellar. A cellar hatch door behind the bar had been left open and the worker, who was on her first shift at the pub, fell through the hole. She fell more than two metres onto the cellar floor, hitting the stairs as she went down.

Her injuries included “a collapsed lung, multiple rib fractures and back and head injuries” and she spent 36 days in hospital. The local council’s EHP found through CCTV footage that over a period of four days, the hatch was left open and unguarded 29 times.

When Can You Claim Compensation for a Cellar Fall Accident?

Employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to keep employees safe. If they fail to meet this duty and you suffer injury as a result, you may be entitled to compensation.

Therefore, you may be able to claim if:

• You fell into an open or unguarded cellar hatch
• You slipped or tripped on unsafe cellar stairs
• You fell due to poor lighting or visibility
• You were injured because of clutter, obstacles or unsafe storage
• You were asked to use a cellar area that was not risk‑assessed
• You fell while carrying heavy items without proper equipment or assistance
• You were not trained on safe cellar access procedures

The key question to ask is whether your employer failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the accident?

What Counts as Employer Negligence in Cellar Fall Accident Claims?

In cellar‑related accidents, negligence typically involves issues such as unsafe access, poor maintenance or inadequate safety procedures. Here are some common examples of employer failings that may support a cellar fall accident claim.

1. Failing to Secure or Guard Cellar Hatches

If a cellar hatch is left open without barriers, warning signs or supervision, employees can easily fall through. Employers must ensure hatches are secured when not in use and safely managed when open.

2. Poorly Maintained Cellar Stairs

Broken steps, uneven surfaces, loose handrails or slippery materials can make cellar stairs dangerous. Employers must maintain stairs and any defects must be repaired promptly.

3. Inadequate Lighting

Dim or faulty lighting in cellar areas increases the risk of missteps, slips and falls. Employers must ensure cellar staircases and access points are well lit.

4. Lack of Risk Assessments

Cellar areas require specific risk assessments due to their confined nature and potential hazards. If no assessment was carried out, or if identified risks were ignored, this may amount to negligence.

5. Unsafe Storage or Obstructions

Boxes, barrels, tools or equipment left on cellar stairs or near hatches create trip hazards. Employers are required to keep access routes clear at all times.

6. Insufficient Training

Employees should be trained on safe cellar access, including how to open hatches, navigate stairs and handle stock. Lack of training can be a breach of duty.

7. Expecting Employees to Carry Heavy Loads Without Support

If you were asked to carry heavy items down steep cellar stairs without proper equipment or assistance, your employer may be liable.

What Evidence Do You Need for a Cellar Fall Accident Claim?

Good evidence helps establish how the accident happened and exactly why your employer was at fault. Useful evidence includes:

• Accident book entry: Ensure the incident is recorded at work.
• Photographs or videos: Capture the cellar area, hatch, stairs, lighting or hazards.
• Witness statements: Colleagues who saw the accident or know about unsafe conditions can support your claim.
• Medical records: These confirm your injuries and treatment.
• CCTV footage: Many workplaces have cameras near access points. CCTV footage is generally regarded as strong evidence as it captures the accident in real time.
• Maintenance logs: These may show that repairs were overdue or ignored.
• Training records:  These can demonstrate whether you were properly trained.
• Risk assessments: These may reveal missing or inadequate safety measures.

How to Start a Cellar Fall Accident Claim

If you believe employer negligence caused your cellar fall accident, you can begin your claim by:

Seeking medical attention:  your health should always be your priority and medical records will support your case.

Reporting the accident: make sure it is logged in the workplace accident book.

Gathering evidence: collect photos, witness details and any relevant documentation.

Speaking to a specialist personal injury solicitor: We work with experienced personal injury solicitors who will carry out an initial, free assessment of your claim and guide you through the process. They also offer No Win, No Fee agreements, meaning you don’t pay legal fees if the claim is unsuccessful.

Starting the claims process: your solicitor will handle communication with the employer or insurer.

FAQ: What Does Compensation Typically Cover For a Cellar Accident Claim?

What does compensation cover in a cellar fall accident claim?

Compensation usually covers pain, suffering, loss of amenity, as well as financial losses such as lost wages and future impact.

Can I claim for lost earnings?

Yes, if your injuries prevented you from working, you can claim back lost income.

Does compensation cover medical treatment?

You can claim for physiotherapy, medication, rehabilitation and other treatment costs.

Can I claim for travel expenses?

Yes, travel to medical appointments or therapy sessions may be included.

What about long‑term impact?

If your injuries affect your future ability to work or require ongoing care, these losses may also be factored into your settlement.

How We Can Help

Cellar fall accidents may result in serious injuries, especially when they involve steep stairs, open hatches or poorly maintained access points. If employer negligence contributed to your accident, you may be entitled to compensation.

Our team will give you the support and understanding you need. For your free, no-obligation consultation:

📞 Call us now at 0330 818 0349
💻 Or visit our Contact Us page