Buying second-hand goods

What rights do you have when buying second-hand goods from a business?

When you buy second-hand goods in Ireland, your rights and protections depend on who you buy from.

If you buy a second-hand item from a business, you have similar rights to buying a new item. The business must always sell you a product that:

• Is fit for the purpose it is normally used for
• Matches what is outlined in your contract or any descriptions or samples you saw
• Can be used for the purpose the business knew you bought it for

You cannot expect second-hand items to be of the same standard as items that are new, but the quality should reflect the price you paid.

What should you know about buying second-hand goods on online marketplaces?

You can buy second-hand goods on websites called online marketplaces, where businesses and/or consumers sell products or services. The platform must show you if a good or service is sold by a business or a consumer.

A business or trader cannot pretend to be a consumer to avoid legal obligations when making a sale. This is called disguised trading and is illegal.

What should you check before buying second-hand goods from a business?

Before buying a second-hand item from a business, you should:

• Examine the item carefully for any faults, imperfections or signs of wear and tear
• Ask the seller about the history and condition of the item
• For used cars, use the CCPC second hand cars checklist for buyers.
• For expensive items such as jewellery or antiques, consider getting an independent expert opinion before buying.

If you have a problem after you buy something, consumer law sets out the steps a business must take to resolve your issue. Find out more about what you can do if you have a problem with a product on our your rights when buying goods page.

Note: These rights do not apply if the fault, including wear and tear, was pointed out to you before you bought the item.

What are your rights when buying second-hand goods from another consumer?

Your rights under consumer law apply only when you buy an item from a business, including a sole trader. If you buy goods from another consumer, for example through a second-hand goods website or app, it is a case of ‘buyer beware’. This means that you are responsible for checking the item before you buy.