Rylands v Fletcher is a landmark case in English tort law that established the principle of strict liability

for inherently dangerous activities. The case was decided in 1868 by the House of Lords.

Facts:

In the case, Rylands, the plaintiff, owned a coal mine.

Fletcher, the defendant, leased adjacent land and employed independent contractors to build a
reservoir on that land.

While constructing the reservoir, the contractors discovered an old mining shaft connected to Rylands'
mine.

When the reservoir was filled, it caused water to flood Rylands' mine, leading to damages.

Issues:

The main issue was whether Fletcher could be held liable for the damages caused by the flooding.

Rule:

The court established the rule that a person who brings something onto their land that is likely to do
mischief if it escapes must keep it at their peril.

- This is a form of strict liability, where the defendant is held liable for the consequences of their actions
regardless of fault.

Application:

The court applied the rule to the case, finding that Fletcher was liable for the damages because he
brought something (the reservoir) onto his land that, if it escaped, was likely to cause damage.

Conclusion:

The decision established the principle of strict liability for the escape of dangerous things, even if the
defendant was not negligent.

This case has had a significant impact on tort law and has influenced the development of strict liability
principles in various legal systems.