Second-hand furniture and appliances can be excellent value, and most problems are easy to spot if you know where to look. The main risks are hidden damage, items that do not fit, and paying before you have seen the item.
Before you go
- Measure the space where the item will go, and the doors and stairs it has to pass through.
- Ask for the age, the brand and model, and whether it is still under any warranty.
- Ask why it is being sold and whether it has been repaired.
- Ask for photos of any marks, and of the back and underside of large pieces.
Checking furniture
- Test drawers, hinges, doors and legs. Sit on chairs and sofas and lean on tables.
- Look and smell for damp, mould or insect damage, especially on wood and upholstery.
- Check for wobbling, cracks in joints and peeling surfaces.
- For beds and mattresses, look for stains, sagging and signs of pests.
Checking appliances
- Ask to see the appliance working: a fridge should be cold, a washing machine should fill, spin and drain.
- Look for rust, leaks, damaged cables, plugs and door seals.
- Check that it runs on the power supply and voltage where you live.
- Ask for the manual, remote controls and any accessories.
Pickup and payment
Arrange pickup yourself or agree the delivery cost clearly before you pay. Bring a friend for heavy items. Pay when you have inspected the item and are loading it, and keep a short note of the item, price and date. Be cautious of sellers who ask for a deposit to “hold” an item you have not seen.