My shop is in a 15-20 year old commercial complex in Surat. The building’s structure is weak, and pieces of the ceiling, staircase, and facade keep falling. Thankfully, no one has been hurt, but the building’s value is now very low. Can the builder, structural engineer, or someone else be held responsible? The builder has given control to the society. Can I take them to court?

Yes, you can potentially hold the builder, structural engineer, or the society responsible for the structural defects. Indian law provides for remedies against such negligence, but the specific liability will depend on the details of the building’s construction, maintenance records, and the builder’s agreements with the society. Consulting a lawyer is recommended to understand your legal options and pursue appropriate action.