TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei officials on Wednesday urged homeowners to check illegal add-on structures at their properties, warning that loose or decayed fittings can fall into public areas — and lead to heavy penalties.

As households take on pre–Lunar New Year cleaning and small repairs, the city’s Construction Management Office said it handled 1,883 reported illegal structures last year, such as wobbling frames and corroded metal racks, and removed them on site to reduce risks, per CNA.

The office said extreme weather has increased the chance of accidents after typhoons and heavy rain, especially when maintenance is neglected. It said authorities will move quickly on cases that pose an immediate safety threat.

Under the Building Act, building owners and users are responsible for maintaining structural safety. Incidents involving dangerous falling illegal structures can lead to fines ranging from NT$60,000 (US$1,910) to NT$300,000. 

Officials cautioned that if someone is injured, owners may face additional legal exposure beyond administrative penalties and forced removal, including potential criminal cases, per Sanli News Network.

The office said timely repairs or voluntary removal before the holiday period can prevent accidents and avoid steep fines. It urged residents not to wait for an accident before acting.