Section 17. Liability of warehouseman for shortage or excess in goods stored

(1) For the purpose of sub-section (1) and (2) of section 16 and sub-section(1) of section 15, loss of weight or bulk by dryage or shrinkage within the prescribed limits and gain in weight by absorption of moisture within such limits shall not be deemed to amount to daterioration. (2) If there is any excess in the goods stored in a warehouse by absorption of moisture or other causes, the warehouseman shall not be entitled thereto. (3) If there is any shortage in the goods stored in a warehouse by dryage or other causes beyond the control of the warehouseman, the warehouseman shall not be responsible therefor. (4) In the event of a dispute arising as to whether such shortage or excess is due to dryage or absorption of moisture or is due to other causes beyond the control of the warehouseman, the matter shall be referred to the prescribed authority.