Understanding the Shabbos Elevator in Israeli Real Estate
A “Ma’alit Shabbat” is a common and important feature in many Israeli residential and public buildings. For observant Jewish buyers and renters, its availability can be a deciding factor when choosing a home.
How Does a Shabbos Elevator Work?
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Automatic Mode: Before the Sabbath begins, the elevator is switched into “Shabbat mode.”
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Continuous Loop: In this mode, the elevator runs automatically. It moves up and down the building, stopping at designated floors for a short period to allow passengers to enter and exit.
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No Button Pressing Required: The doors open and close automatically, and the elevator’s movement is pre-programmed. This allows observant Jews to use it without violating the laws of Shabbat.
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Variations: Some elevators stop on every floor, while others may be programmed to stop on even floors on the way up and odd floors on the way down to save time. In buildings with multiple elevators, usually one is designated as the Shabbos elevator.
Why is it a Key Real Estate Feature?
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Essential for Observant Residents: For families with strollers, elderly individuals, or those with mobility issues living in a multi-story building, a Shabbos elevator is a necessity for leaving their apartment on Shabbat.
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Increases Property Appeal: In neighborhoods with a large religious population, buildings with a Shabbos elevator are significantly more desirable and easier to sell or rent.
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A Standard in New Construction: Most new residential towers in mixed or religious neighborhoods are now built with at least one Shabbos elevator as a standard feature.
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Check the “Va’ad Bayit”: In older buildings, a Shabbos elevator may have been installed later. It’s important to check the building’s committee (Va’ad Bayit) regulations and costs associated with its operation.
When searching for property in Israel, if Shabbat observance is a priority, you should always specify “must have a Shabbos elevator” to your real estate agent. This will ensure you are only shown properties that meet this essential requirement.
