Tenant Rights: Repairs, Deposits, and Eviction

The rental market in Israel continues to grow, with nearly a third of the population living in rented apartments. After years where landlord-tenant relations were governed primarily by free contract, the Ministry of Justice has formulated new regulations establishing a default contract—rules that apply when the written agreement is silent on a specific issue. This is a significant change aimed at reducing common disputes over repairs, reasonable wear and tear, and property misuse.

Under the new rules, responsibility for repairing systemic defects and essential infrastructure (electricity, water, sewage) lies with the landlord, while damages caused by unreasonable use are the tenant's responsibility. In cases where the contract's extension option lacks clear conditions, rent increases are limited to the Consumer Price Index growth rate, protecting tenants from sharp, unjustified price hikes.

Repairs and Deposits

When a defect is discovered, the tenant must notify the landlord in writing. Urgent malfunctions endangering safety or reasonable use (e.g., significant leaks) must be handled within three days, while standard repairs should be addressed within thirty days. If the landlord fails to act, the tenant may perform the repair and deduct the cost from the rent, provided they have given prior written notice and allowed a reasonable timeframe.

The maximum deposit is limited to the lower of two amounts: one-third of the total rent for the contract period or three months' rent. Landlords must return the deposit within 60 days of the rental's end and the apartment's handover. It is highly recommended to document the apartment's condition upon entry and exit via photos, video, and a signed list of defects.

Early Termination and Eviction

Tenants are not always bound by the contract until its end. Courts often recognize the right to leave early if a suitable alternative tenant is found and the landlord refuses them without justification. Conversely, if a candidate has poor references or a history of arrears, the landlord's refusal may be deemed reasonable.

If a tenant fails to pay or refuses to vacate, the landlord may file an eviction claim in the Magistrate's Court. The filing fee is approximately 774 NIS (as of 2026). Selling a property during the rental period does not cancel the contract; the new buyer automatically steps into the original landlord's shoes, assuming all existing rights and obligations.