Fatwa ID: 06847

Answered by: Alimah Jannatun Nessa

Question:

Our Masjid owns several properties,  the rent we receive from the tenants goes towards masjid running costs & other masjid expenses however recently they did an appeal for lillah contributions to pay for the refurbishment of these properties.  I’m very confused by this as I was under the impression that any refurb costs should be paid for by the rent and not by donations from the public. Please can you clarify as I am not directly contributing to the masjid?

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

It is common for masjids to rely on multiple sources of funding to cover their expenses. While the rent from the properties does contribute towards the running costs, sometimes major refurbishments or renovations may require additional funds beyond what the rent can cover. Appeals for lillah contributions are often made in such cases to ensure that necessary improvements can be made to maintain the quality and functionality of the properties. 

It is permissible for the masjid to ask for donations because it is considered charity, and the community is the one who will benefit from the improvements. Therefore it is valid for public donations to go towards the refurbishment of the masjid.

Only Allah (عز و جل) knows best.

Written by Alimah Jannatun Nessa

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham