Shopping: second-hand goods
When you buy a second-hand item from someone who is selling it as part of their trade, you are entitled to the same rights as if it is new.
It must be fit for the purpose for which it is sold, as described and be durable as can be expected given the price paid for it and any other relevant factors.
On the other hand, you cannot expect second-hand goods to be of the same standard as new ones and you need to examine the goods more carefully and ask relevant questions about them.
'Sold as seen'
If the goods are “sold-as-seen” you need to be extra careful and, in certain cases (such as cars or antique furniture) you may need to get an expert opinion.
If the item turns out to be faulty, you have the right to return it to the shop and seek a replacement, a repair or a refund.
Private sales
If you buy second-hand goods through a private sale, your rights as a consumer are greatly diminished.
The goods merely have to be owned by the seller and fit their description, so it is very much a case of "caveat emptor", or "buyer beware".
Learn about consumer rights and shopping
