Private sale
Private seller and small claims in Ireland
Check why buying from a private seller is different from buying from a trader.
Check your dispute first
Answer a few questions to see your options before writing your complaint.
Check your optionsSmall-claims searches often start after a private car sale, Facebook Marketplace purchase, or informal deal. The problem is that private sellers are not the same as traders for consumer-rights purposes.
TBD asks whether the respondent was a trader because that changes the likely route. If the seller was genuinely private, you may need another path.
What to do next
- 1Work out whether the seller was acting as a trader or private individual.
- 2Collect the advert, messages, payment proof, and any business signals.
- 3Use the checker before assuming the Small Claims Procedure fits.
Before you write
- Advert or listing
- Messages
- Payment proof
- Seller identity
- Evidence of trader status if any
Questions people ask
Can I use small claims against a private seller?
A private sale is different from buying goods from a trader. Check the official criteria and get advice if the route is unclear.