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and - \par \par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 1.}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617\charrsid14513617 }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 AMINA ALI \par 2.}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617\charrsid14513617 }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 STATE TRANSPORT LIMITED \par 3.}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617\charrsid14513617 }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 SAFAR ALI s/o Mohammed Kasim \par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Defendants \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par Mr. R. Gopal for the Plaintiff \par Mr. R. Chand for the First Defendant \par No appearance by the 2nd and 3rd Defendants \par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4252\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par By Writ of Summons dated 9 December 1992 the Plaintiffs by their Attorney }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 ABDUL HUSSEIN}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 under a regi stered Power of Attorney claimed, inter alia, damages against the defendants. \par \par On 22 January 1993, no appearance having been entered by the defendants judgment by default was entered against them with damages to be assessed and costs.}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Before I deal with t he matter of assessment, I consider that I ought to set out the background to this action to show the steps taken by the second (D2) and third (D3) defendants to set aside the judgment entered against them. \par \par The said Writ was served on D2 and D3 on 17 December 1992.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 No appearance was entered by them.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 By Motion filed on 12 March 1993 D2 and D3 applied to set aside the default judgment.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 On the hearing date (19 March 1993) counsel did not appear and the matter was adjourned sine die with liberty to restore.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 The Plaintiffs were also not served with the Notice of Motion.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Then another Motion was filed on 26 May 1993 to re-instate the previous Motion.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 All parties had the matter adjourned on numerous occasions for settlement before Kepa J.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 By Motion filed on 30 March 1994, Mr. Chand for the first defendant (D1) applied to set aside the said judgment.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Finally because counsel for the defendants have not been appearing before Kepa J. as required, his Lordship on 13 May 1994, made an order for assessment of damages. \par \par The hearing of assessment of damages commenced on 19}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 October 1994 after due service of Notices on the defendants.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Mr. Chand appeared as counsel for D1.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 The prayer in item 1 in the Statement of Claim i.e. }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 "that the defendant be ordered to build a retainer wal l along the boundary at their own expenses"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 was withdrawn by Mr. Gopal.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 The only issue remained was as to damages (prayer 2). \par \par After hearing it was ordered that both counsel file written submissions within 14 days but they were filed out of time by Mr. Gopal on 15 December 1994 and by Mr. Chand on 13 February 1995. \par \par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 The facts and relief sought}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par \par To give a background to the case, for the purposes of assessment, I can do no better than repeat what is stated in the Plaintiffs' Statement of Claim which is as fo}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10506559 llows:}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4252\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 "}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Statement of Claim}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid10506559 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 1.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Plaintiffs have at all material times been the owners of the land comprised in C.T. 27271 being Lot 2 on DP. 5674 being part of land known as Nakasi situated in the District of Naitasiri in the Island of Vitilevu. \par \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 2.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 1st Defendant is the owner of land comprised in C.T.27460 being Lot 6 on DP. 5674. \par \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 3.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 2nd Defendant is a limited liability company}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 carrying on civil engineering works and having its registered office at 8 Miles Makoi Stage 2, Nasinu. \par \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 4.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 3rd Defendant is the Managing Director of the }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 STATE TRANSPORT LIMITED}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 . \par \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 5.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 ON}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 or about February, 1992 the 2nd Defendant carried out bulldozing work on the 1st Defendant's property. \par \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 6.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 boundary pegs were not properly identified. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 7.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 3rd Defendant himself did the bulldozing work on the 1st Defendant's property. \par \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 8.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THAT}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 part of the Plaintiffs land was excavated. \par \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 9.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THAT}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 erosion of soil occurs on the land. \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 10.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Plaintiffs' property was injured and damaged in}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 that the land lost part of its support.}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Retain er walls will have to be built to prevent further loss and damage to the land. \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 11.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THAT}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 the acts o}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 ccurred due to the Defendants' }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 negligence and or nuisance. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4252\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Particulars of Negligence}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (i)\tab The Defendants failed to properly identify the boundaries of the p roperties before carrying out the excavation work. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (ii)\tab The Defendants failed to give notice to the Plaintiff that they were going to carry out excavation work on the boundary. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par (iii)}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 \tab }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 The Defendants failed to take steps not to excavate}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Plaintiffs' land while doing bulldozing work on their}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 land. \par \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (iv)\tab The Defendants failed to take any steps to prevent the natural support of the land being taken away from the Plaintiffs' land. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (v)\tab The Defendants carried out the bulldozing work knowing or ought to knowing th at the natural support of the Plaintiffs' land was being taken away. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (vi)\tab The Defendants left the Plaintiffs' property in a state that erosion of the land occurs. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4252\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4252\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Particulars of Nuisance}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (i)\tab The Defendants trespassed into the Plaintiffs' land. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (ii)\tab The Defendants carried away soil from the Plaintiffs' land. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par (iii)}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 \tab }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 The Defendants interfered with the Plaintiffs' full}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 and peaceful enjoyment of their land. \par \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (iv)\tab The Defendants left the land along the boundary in such a state that erosion of the land occurs. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (v)\tab The Defendants did not take reasonable precautions to prevent damage to the Plaintiffs' property. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 12.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Plaintiffs' seek to rely on the doctrine of Res}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 ipsa loquitur. \par \par }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 13.}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 THE}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Plaintiffs have suffered loss and damages. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4252\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Wherefore the Plaintiffs Claim}{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 1.\tab That the Defendants be ordered to build a retainer wall along the boundary at their own expenses. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 2.\tab Damages. \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 3.\tab Costs of this action." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 The Issue}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par \par At the commencement of the hearing of assessment of damages it was agreed that liability is admitted by D1. \par \par Hence the sole issue is determination of quantum of damages against all the defendants. \par \par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Assessment of Damages}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par \par It is not denied by D1 that the Plaintiffs' property has been excavated by D2 and D3 to the extent of three metres leaving a steep embankment of about 20 feet. \par \par The said attorney testified on behalf of the Plaintiffs (Ps) who reside overseas.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 He produced to Court Rupeni Consultant's Report (Surveyors)(exhibit 2) dated 22 September 1993 which stated that }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 "at the rear corner, part of this lot 2 has been cut away to a distance of 3 metres as shown on the attached plan"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 .}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 It also stated that the }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 "boundary pegs found/placed are in the correct position"}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 .}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 The witness said that after the section was cut a }{ \i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 "steep e}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 m}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 bankment was left as a consequen ce; and that a retaining wall will have to be built - land subsides in rear."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 \par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 A quotation (exhibit 3(A)) for $27,840.25 from Hamids Construction was tendered to Court to build the retaining wall as per plan (exhibit P4-A-E).}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Mr. Abdul Hamid who tendered f or the retaining wall (exhibit 3) testified that he gave a quotation for $27,840 but he said that it will cost $33,000 (Vat inclusive) now. \par \par The first defendant who was present neither testified nor did she call any witnesses to testify on her behalf. \par \par On the question of the right to the degree of support and the responsibility on the part of the adjoining owners of properties before any work of the nature as in this case is carried out has been succinctly put by }{ \f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 FIELD J}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 in }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 DALTON v ANGUS}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (1880) 6 LR (HL) p. 740 at p. 752 thus: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 "So soon as the surface of the land becomes divided, either vertically or horizontally, into separate and exclusive tenements, one of the first and clearest principles applicable to each separate holding is, that the owner has the ri ght given to him by implication of law to use his property as best he likes, provided that he does not by such user injure the rights of his neighbour.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 If neither he nor his neighbour have built on or dealt with their respective portions, and the latter ar e in their natural state and condition, it is clear that each owner has as against the other a right to have his soil supported by the soil of his neighbour, whether adjacent or below, and any act done by one which destroys that support so that the land o f the other falls is an actionable wrong, and that is so, although the act complained of is not done by him maliciously, but simply in the exercise of his own right to use his own property.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{ \b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Although, therefore, either of them may dig in his own soil as deep and as near to his own boundary or to the surface as he chooses, }{ \b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 this right is subject}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 to }{\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 one limitation}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 from the very first, viz., that }{\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 he cannot dig so deep and so near as to cause}{ \b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 his }{\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 neighbour's land to sink}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 , } {\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 unless he substitute some other sufficient support}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 : Wilde v. Minsterley (1); Humphries v. Brogden (2); Rowbotham v. Wilson (3).}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 This limitation, however, upon his right is accompanied by a like limitation of his neighbour's right, so that the advantage and burden are mutual in quality, although they may vary in degree."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10506559 (underlining mine)}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par It was therefore the defendants' responsibility to exercise due care that no damage was done to the Plaintiffs' property which they failed to do hence the Plaintiffs were able to obtain a default judgment against D2 and D3 as well. \par \par It is against this background that I now proceed to assess damages on the evidence before me. \par \par The amount that the Plaintiffs are claiming by way of damages is the cost of building retaining walls in the affected area namely at the rear boundary and on the side towards the rear of the property. \par \par In this case this basis would be as good a basis as any with some modifications on which to assess damages on the evidence before me. \par \par The only evidence which I have in this regard, and which is not disputed by D1, is the evidence of Mr. Hamid who gave a quotation for the retaining wall }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 "as per Plan"}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 (exhibit 4) in the sum of $27,840.00 but he said that it will cost $33,000 now. \par \par I notice that in the said Plan there are 3 retaining walls shown (2 on the said affected area and one on the side).}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Since I am merely concerned with assessment pertaining to the affected area, the quotation has to be adjusted by dividing the figure of $33,000 by three and then adjusting further by examining the height of the wall (as heights, as per Plan, differ in each case) and the area to be covered. \par \par On the facts that I have and doing the best I can in the circumstances, I assess damages at $18000.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10506559 00 (eighteen thousand dollars).}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par \par Further, I find that D1 is 60% liable and D2 and D3 are 40% liable which in monetary terms amounts to $10800 and $7200 respectively. \par \par I therefore enter judgment for the said sums of $10,800 and $7200 against the first defendant and second and third defendants respectively with costs which is to be taxed if not agreed. \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 D. Pathik \par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 Judge}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919\charrsid14513617 \par At Suva \par {\*\bkmkstart QuickMark}{\*\bkmkend QuickMark}20 July 1995}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12679919 \par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14513617 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617 HBC0535J.92S}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513617\charrsid14513617 \par }}