Rental and Loan Law, 1971 (Fair Rental amendment)
Tenant rights in Israel
The 'Fair Rental' amendment to the Rental and Loan Law sets a minimum habitability standard and caps the security a landlord may demand.
Habitable apartment
Working electricity and water, ventilation and natural light, a door and lock, and no safety or health hazard.
Repairs and deposits
Landlords must fix defects within 30 days (3 days if urgent). Total security is capped at one third of the rent for the whole term or three months' rent, whichever is lower.
Eviction and rent increases
Eviction requires a court process; self-help eviction is unlawful. Rent changes only at term end or per the contract mechanism.
FAQ
- The landlord will not repair — what now?
- Send a written demand; if ignored you may repair and offset the cost against rent, or sue.
- Can an open security cheque be demanded?
- No. Security is capped by law and cannot be cashed without prior notice.
- Can I leave the lease early?
- Only under an exit clause or by agreement, usually by finding a replacement tenant.