Purchasing second-hand goods

Whether you are buying goods from an ad in the newspaper or online, a leaving-the-island sale or from a neighbour, remember: caveat emptor! Buyer beware!

• Inspect the Goods You Are Buying.  Inquire as to the age and quality of the product and whether it is still covered by warranty. If the product is electrical, plug it in to see if it works. For mechanical or technical products, take someone with you who knows about the item, or make the sale conditional.  In the case of a car, it is a good idea to ask for a day to have it checked by a mechanic so as to decide if it will cost more to have it licensed than it is worth;
• Sales are final once you exchange money and receive the item;
• Ask for a receipt which shows what you have bought with the date, name, address and telephone number of the seller, and any conditions of sale;
• If you pay a deposit, get a receipt and make note of the agreement you have with the seller regarding remainder of payment, collection of product and time frame.  Make sure both parties sign the agreement.