Guide for Buyers
Car boot sales ate an easy way for people to clear unwanted items, whilst at the same time making a little money. As well as offering bargains for buyers, boot sales are “green”. They encourage the recycling of goods. Car boot sales should be enjoyable for all. Car boot sales have a lot to offer consumers. However, as with other purchasing decisions, it is important to be fully informed beforehand. Before committing yourself take time to consider the following:-
ARE YOU DEALING WITH A TRADER OR A PRIVATE INDIVIDUAL?
You have more consumer rights when dealing with a trader. Goods sold by a trader must be:
- As described.
- Of satisfactory quality.
- Fit for their purpose.
Private individuals have only to ensure that goods are sold “as described”. The nature of car boot sales means that it is not always easy to distinguish traders and private sellers who are just clearing out unwanted goods. However, some traders will display a sign giving their proper name and address. Others might be identifiable because they are solely selling new goods or because they are specialising in certain items. Whilst in theory, you enjoy greater protection when dealing with a trader, obtaining redress for faulty goods may still be very difficult. There is no guarantee that any seller (either trader or private individual) will be there next time. In sho9rt, examine goods carefully before buying. It will probably not be easy to follow up a complaint after the day of sale.
ARE THE GOODS SAFE?
ELECTRICAL GOODS
- Most electrical appliances must be supplied with a fitted approved standard plug; this does not apply to appliances intended to be permanently connected to the fixed wiring.
- Plugs should be marked as being BD, BEAB, BSI or
- Make sure that guards and other safety devices are fitted and working thereby providing adequate protection against potential hazards.
Given the potential risk, it may be advisable to have any appliance checked out by a competent electrician before use.
TOYS
- It should not be possible to remove eyes and other small parts. They may cause a choking hazard for young children.
- Also, remember to check for sharp points and edges
- Beware of damaged toys which could have a potential safety hazard not present when the toy was new.
If you believe that you have bought an unsafe item, or if you see unsafe goods on sale, please contact your local Trading Standards Department.
ARE THE GOODS STOLEN?
Stolen goods are know to be disposed of through boot fairs. Most commonly it will be the proceeds of petty thieving, items stolen from outhouses, garages etc; however valuable antiques and missing stock deliveries have both been discovered.
Check items for markings such as a postcode. If buying from a private individual ask them to repeat any postcode marked. If they can’t proceed with caution.
Keep a look out for items where an identifying mark (such as the name of the original owner) has been scratched out or obliterated. It may also pay to be wary of power tools etc; which come without their original leads.
If you suspect that any goods are stolen, contact you local police station.
ARE THE GOODS COUNTERFIT?
Counterfeit goods can be attractively priced. However, they rarely offer value for money. Cheep t-shirts and other clothing will often only last a couple of washes. Poor quality audio or video cassettes can damage recorders. It is illegal to use unauthorised smartcards for satellite TV decoders. If you find counterfeit goods on sale you should alert the local Trading Standards Department. Some counterfeits, for example car parts, can even threaten your safety.
Although it is not an offence to purchase counterfeit goods, by doing so you will be helping others to profit by breaking the law. The loss to British businesses as a result of counterfeiting is enormous.