Who is classified as an invitee in property law?

An invitee in property law refers to an individual who has a legal right to enter the property, typically for business or public purposes. This classification signifies that the property owner has a duty to ensure the premises are safe and to guard against potential hazards, as the invitee is present for the mutual benefit of both parties. For example, customers in a store or attendees at a public park are considered invitees because they are allowed on the property to engage in activities that provide value to both themselves and the property owner.

This understanding is important because the property owner’s obligations differ based on the type of individual on their property. Invitees are afforded the greatest protection under the law, requiring property owners to conduct regular inspections and maintain safety standards. This contrasts with other classifications such as licensees, who may have permission to be on the property but do not provide a business benefit to the owner, and trespassers, who have no right to be on the property at all.