Money Moral Dilemma: Should I replace my flatmate's fancy bowl - even though she told me not to?

Gosportmum

Offer once more, to replace it and if she says no again leave it at that. Just because it was expensive, doesn't mean she really liked it. Buy a decent bottle of wine to draw a line under the event.

hsang

If you can afford it financially I would replace the bowl. Your flat mate might say she doesn't mind, and believe it in the moment, but little things can build up over time and result in resentment. 

I think it also shows you respect her belongings and respect her as an extension.

CapeTown

Look on ebay. You will probably be able to get a replacement much cheaper and second hand.

REJP

OP answers the question about replacement by saying he/she feels bad about it.  If OP can afford the replacement and can get one that matches, go ahead and buy it for the friend.

HRH_MUngo

Just replace it if you feel bad about it.  I'm sure your friend won't mind!

Rob5342

Agent57 said:

Rob5342 said:

Just talk to her and find out if she meant it or was just being polite.

If only the world was that simple.  People often don't say what they mean. Being polite can often cause problems.

I often find the logical thing say and the polite thing to say are polar opposites and it can drive me insane.

It depends how hard you push it. They might be polite to start with but if you have your phone out about to buy a new one you could be more sure of their view.

SuperScrimper1

MSE_Kelvin said:

This week's MoneySaver who wants advice asks...

While putting away the dishes, I accidentally dropped a bowl belonging to my flatmate. She told me not to bother replacing it as we have loads of others, but the bowl I smashed was from an expensive ceramics brand, while our other bowls are normal cheap crockery. Yet I still feel bad about it - what would you do?

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Well she said not to replace it . I would take that as she said and if she drinks get a bottle of wine if you cant afford that make her dinner or lunch and don't dwell to much on possessions and just be mates ...she obviously doesn't which is a good thing