Car boot sales

Car boot sales can be an opportunity to get rid of unwanted stuff or pick up a bargain. However, what seems to be a good bargain at the time could be a danger to you and your family.

While many private individuals use car boot sales to get rid of unwanted goods, it is not uncommon for traders to use car boot sales pretending to be private sellers and can be selling faulty, dangerous, fake or stolen goods.

If the item you bought doesn't work, and you can find the person who sold it, you may be able to claim your money back. Traders are liable if they misdescribed the goods or if the goods are faulty. Private sellers are only liable if they misdescribed the goods.

Things to watch out for

Beware of stalls offering designer clothing, perfumes and other luxury items as they could be fake.

Buying second hand electrical items from a car boot sale may also be dangerous as most sold at car boot sales have reached the end of their useful life and may no longer be safe. If you buy an electrical item, it is a good idea to have a qualified electrician to check the item before you use it.

You should also be wary about buying toys. Second hand toys may not comply with current safety standards, or they may be damaged making them unsafe.