Q: Recently, while in a supermarket, I picked up a bottle of detergent and placed it in my trolley to purchase it.
A few minutes later, I saw that the bottle was leaking as the lid had not been screwed on completely. Approximately one quarter of the liquid had leaked out.
I left the bottle on the shelf, paid for my other items and left. It thereafter occurred to me that when I had picked up the detergent with the intention of purchase, I became liable for it. However, either the manufacturer or supermarket had not screwed the lid on correctly, and that was not my fault.
Am I responsible for the item? Should I return to the store and compensate them for it?
A: Generally, in these stores, if there is an accident of this nature, they will regard it as their fault. Hence, if it is their fault then you are not liable. However, to clear your conscience, it will be better to mention it to the storekeeper or the manager in charge and wait to hear from him.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)