Rylands v. Fletcher (case)

Rylands v. Fletcher is a landmark English legal case from 1868 that established a principle of strict liability for landowners. In the case, a landowner built a reservoir that, when filled, flooded a neighboring mine owned by Fletcher. The court held that if someone brings or keeps something dangerous or non-natural on their land that escapes and causes harm, they can be held responsible regardless of negligence. This case created a legal basis for liability when activities or things on private land cause damage to others, emphasizing responsibility for risks associated with certain conduct.