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Hi, I'm wanting to buy a cheap van say around £800, I was looking private as I can get a better deal.. What rights will I have if things are not working on it once I've taken it home ?..

Thanks

The basic rule is buyer beware. Look at all advice on this site about buying before handing over any cash.

The seller is supposed to be honest, and if he or she misleads you, it is possible to claim through the small claims court, but you would have to demonstrate the likelihood of the seller deliberately misleading you. For example if he says no damp as far as he is aware, then you find damp, essentially your problem, after all he was not aware,etc. But if damp had been disguised, by a new covering of plywood, then you might have a case.

Overend

Karen,  I do suggest that you get a prospective van checked by an engineer, or KNOWLEGABLE friend with a damp meter.  A reputable seller will not mind.  It may cost something, but as you are working to a budget, it is all the more important not to buy a bad one.

good luck

Michael

Buyer beware - is the thing.  If buying privately - you gets what you sees.  be aware that if you are trying to spend less than £1000 it is unlikely to be a 'Cracker', you should expect to do a certtain amount of repair work - ther may not be running water - hot or cold and no toilet.  Go with reasonable expectations.

Basically it's the same as buying a second-hand car....it's 'sold as seen'....once it's towed away it is your responsibility. If something does turn out to be 'faulty' then you could try the small claims court as already said, but in reality the time, effort, and money involved often makes it a pointless task.......so always take someone with you when viewing a caravan who knows what to look for etc and make sure you see EVERYTHING fully working before you part with any cash! - it always pays to have a small gas bottle, a spare 12V battery and a hook-up lead in the boot of your car when going to 'view', so that there are no excuses for the seller not showing you everything working, spend plenty of time checking every nook and cranny with a damp meter, and only part with your hard earned money if you are totally happy....if you have any doubts simply walk away, there are plenty of dry, fully working caravans about!

Happy hunting!

Thanks a lot for your advice guys....

I've been to see a few this afternoon( terrible) so I'm going to up my budget a little,hopefully I will get something decent....