2006: Building certificates and inspections became stricter. This amendment was made after the forged earthquake resistance data scandal by Aneha in 2005. Buildings above a certain height were subjected to peer reviews. Apartment buildings over 3 stories now had to have inspections in the middle of the construction proces - See more at: http://japanpropertycentral.com/real-estate-faq/earthquake-building-codes-in-japan/#sthash.4XjqDL19.dpuf