What steps are needed to sue a contractor for faulty work in Israel?

In Israel
Last Updated: Nov 3, 2025
I paid a contractor to renovate my apartment in Israel, but the work is clearly defective and not in line with the contract. Do I need an attorney to file a civil claim, or can I start with a formal complaint on my own? How long do these cases usually take, and what costs should I expect for litigation and possible remedies?

Lawyer Answers

Sternberg & Co. Advocates

Sternberg & Co. Advocates

Dec 25, 2025

Proceeding independently typically begins with a formal pre-litigation demand letter and, where applicable, a claim in the Small Claims Court, whose jurisdiction is limited to claims of up to NIS 38,900 and governed by simplified procedures.


Construction and renovation defect claims, however, are not routine monetary disputes. They require a technical and legal assessment of contractual obligations and the actual condition of the works, supported by expert evidence. Proper management of such cases also involves knowing which experts to engage, how to work with them, and how to address, and if necessary examine, a court-appointed expert.


Outside the Small Claims framework, self-representation in the regular civil courts, where procedural and evidentiary rules are more complex, is not advisable and may limit the effective enforcement of rights.


Costs and fees are assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on the scope and complexity of the matter.

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