Re-imbursement?
Question
- If someone accidentally took my everyday item (for example, something I use regularly for work or at home), and I had to buy a cheaper, lower-quality replacement to use until my original item is returned, are they halachically required to reimburse me for the cost of this temporary replacement?
Does it make a difference what the item is and if the item is usable to others ?
Answer
Shalom!
Thank you for your question.
In the case you describe: the one who accidentally took your item would not be required to reimburse you for the replacement. (This is considered Grama)
While he has an obligation to return it to you, he cannot be responsible for you having gone out to purchase a new one. That would be your decision and your expense alone.
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