What is the ratio in Murphy v Brentwood DC?

Local authorities owe no duty of care in negligence for pure economic loss arising from defective building inspection approvals. Only dangerous defects causing personal injury or property damage are recoverable.

What did the court decide in Murphy v Brentwood DC?

The House of Lords held that Brentwood Council was not liable for Murphy's financial losses caused by purchasing a defectively built house that the council had negligently approved.

Why is Murphy v Brentwood DC important for negligence law?

It clarified the boundaries of recoverable loss in negligence by distinguishing dangerous defects from mere defective quality, and limited local authority liability for building inspection failures.

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