This information applies to England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

You have very few rights when buying privately. Items are usually sold as seen which means that you should thoroughly examine the item before buying it. It is a good idea to take someone with you as a witness and, depending on the item being bought, you should ask the seller to demonstrate it so that potential problems may be identified.

The only real protection you have when buying privately is that the item being sold should be as it is advertised. That means it should match the description given in the advertisement. For example, if someone went along expecting to buy a leather coat and it turned out to be “leather-look PVC” then the item does not match the description because it is not leather.

For more information on buying goods from a private seller, see Private sales and car boot sales.

Other Frequently asked questions about consumer affairs:

• How can a pre-paid card help me?
• Do shops have to give refunds for returned goods?
• Do I have to take a credit note if I return goods?
• Can I take an unwanted present back to the shop?
• Can I return something I bought in the sales?
• Do I have to take goods that don't match my order?
• Can I get a deposit back if I cancel my order?
• A builder I hired is taking a very long time to complete the work - is there any way that I can make him finish the job?
• What does a guarantee for an item cover?
• I bought an item in a sale which is faulty - can I ask for my money back?
• What can I do if I bought a faulty car?
• A letter says I've won a prize - is it a scam?