What type of duty does a property owner owe to an invitee?

A property owner owes an invitee the highest duty of care because invitees are individuals who enter the property with the owner's permission for the owner's benefit, such as customers in a retail store or guests in a hotel. This legal standard requires the property owner to actively ensure that the premises are safe and to take reasonable steps to prevent any harm. This includes regularly inspecting the property for hazards, making necessary repairs, and adequately addressing any potentially dangerous conditions.

The rationale behind this heightened duty of care is rooted in the expectation that invitees may not be aware of all risks present on the property. Therefore, the property owner is obligated to provide a safe environment and protect invitees from injuries that could arise due to negligence. This reflects a legal recognition of the relationship between the property owner and the invitee, where the owner has a greater responsibility to ensure safety and well-being.