If you’re like me, you’ve noticed yellow tape and danger notices hugging close to block walls and buildings abutting sidewalks and lanes so narrow that close proximity to this supposed danger cannot be avoided if one is to pass and might have wondered, “What’s the point of that signage?”
A lawyer writing at Kumanichi points out the point. A property owner so negligent at maintaining property such that its collapse causes damage or injury is of course normally held liable. The rule of thumb, apparently, is that a structure must be capable of withstanding an earthquake of shindo 5. After such a strong series of quakes as we’ve had recently, however, a certain grace period is allowed for repair (how long is vague - haste is urged), so presently, even if something as slight as a gust of wind causes your block wall to collapse or roof tiles to hit your neighbor’s car, you may not be held liable for damage PROVIDED THAT YOU HAVE TAPED IT OFF with a warning sign.
Useful advice not only for property owners but for those walking or parking close to taped-off structures.
