What is the measure of damages for household items typically based on?

The measure of damages for household items is typically based on replacement value. This approach aims to compensate the plaintiff for the cost of acquiring a new item that serves the same purpose as the original item that was lost or damaged, without accounting for depreciation. By using replacement value, the legal system ensures that the injured party can recover enough to replace their items with items of like kind and quality, reflecting the current market conditions.

This method is often preferred because it allows the claimant to restore their situation to what it was before the loss or damage, minimizing their financial loss. This is particularly relevant for household items like furniture, appliances, and electronics, where the actual market value or depreciated value may not truly represent the cost needed to obtain a comparable replacement.