Be wary of requests for upfront payments, especially via money transfer services. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true. Always inspect items in person before paying and be cautious of buyers or sellers located overseas. Report any suspicious activity to Gumtree and the police.
Your rights depend on whether the seller is a private individual or a business. If buying from a business, you have consumer rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, including the right to a refund, repair, or replacement if the item is faulty or not as described. If buying from a private seller, your rights are more limited, but the item must still match the description given.
Always meet in a safe, public place during daylight hours. Take a friend or family member with you if possible. Inform someone of your plans and location. Never go alone to someone's home or invite them to yours for the initial meeting. Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, leave.
It is illegal to sell puppies or kittens under 8 weeks old. Ensure you are familiar with the animal welfare regulations in Northern Ireland, including the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Provide accurate information about the animal's breed, age, health, and temperament. Avoid misleading descriptions and be prepared to answer questions from potential buyers.
Report the listing to Gumtree immediately using the 'Report' button on the advert. Provide as much detail as possible about your concerns. You can also report the activity to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) if you believe a crime has been committed.
