Damage in a Rented Apartment
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Question
Last summer, we rented an apartment, and there was a luxurious fixture. I accidentally pushed a piece of furniture, and it hit the glass, cracking it. The apartment owner demands a high payment for the glass, which he claims is very expensive, and for the installation, which also costs hundreds of shekels. According to the law, is he entitled to the full amount?
Answer
Hello and blessings
A person who damages an object, whether accidentally or intentionally, is liable. This includes both the damage itself and the installation costs.
However, you have the option to check if the price the owner is demanding is accurate or if a cheaper price can be found. If there is a cheaper alternative, you are not obligated to pay more than the lower price. [Of course, provided that the quality of the cheaper option is not inferior to what was originally there]