Halachot and Customs
Renovations During the Nine Days
Question
I began renovations in my home about two and a half weeks ago. May I continue them during the week in which Tishah B'Av falls (Sunday and Monday)?
Thank you.
Answer
Hello, Meir
In Shulchan Aruch (seif katan 551 and in Mishnah Berurah, note 12), it is explained that during these days one should reduce the building and renovation of any structure if the intent is merely for comfort. However, when there is a necessary need to build for living purposes, there is no prohibition. Likewise, if one hired a non-Jewish contractor for this purpose and the work began before these days, the contractor may continue building even on Tishah B'Av itself, since the work is by contract and not by wages, and it is considered that the gentile is building and renovating during these days on the basis of his own calculations, and not on behalf of the one who hired him. May you be blessed with a beautiful result - Menashe Israel
