The Contractual Remedies Act does apply to auction sales. Auctioneers must not mislead bidders about the goods on sale. The Sale of Goods Act does apply to auction sales. The Act covers both domestic and commercial goods. Aware Auctioneers can contract out of the Sale of Goods Act.
Any sign needs only be clear enough to let a reasonable person see and understand it.
DO take the opportunity to examine the goods before you buy them - auctioneers normally hold inspection days before the auction so that you can check through the lots that interest you. Buying goods privately Whether you are buying goods from an ad in the paper, from a garage sale, or from a neighbour, you need to check out what you are buying. Consumer laws such as the Consumer Guarantees Act and the Fair Trading Act do not cover private sales. Although buying a car privately is popular and often cheaper than other methods of buying a car, there are a number of checks to prevent you from buying a 'lemon'. See our Motor Vehicle index for more information.