The vast majority of DoneDeal users are genuine and trustworthy.

That said, it’s important to apply the same common sense online as you would offline. A few simple precautions can prevent most problems.

Important:
Contracts for the sale or purchase of goods cannot be concluded on the DoneDeal website. Any agreement between you and the seller must be made separately, outside of the DoneDeal platform. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for more information.

Please note: This guide is for general information only. It does not constitute legal advice, and we do not accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this guide.

General Safety Guidelines

These apply whether you’re buying or selling:

• Deal locally and meet in person whenever possible. (This avoids the vast majority of safety issues.)

• Communicate via the DoneDeal Message centre.

• Arrange a meeting place you feel comfortable with.

• Choose a busy, well-lit public location — ideally covered by CCTV.

• Don’t meet alone if possible.

• Tell someone where you’re going and who you’re meeting.

• Keep your mobile phone with you at all times.

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, walk away.

Advice for Buyers

Be cautious and informed

• If visiting a seller’s home, respect their privacy.

• Be aware they may feel cautious about strangers visiting.

• Be wary of items priced significantly below market value.

• Avoid sellers who pressure you into quick decisions.

• Watch out for counterfeit goods, especially branded items, tickets or electronics.

Protect Yourself

• Try to obtain signed proof of purchase.

• If possible, ask for both a mobile and landline number.

• Inspect the item carefully before paying.

• Items bought from private sellers are generally sold “as seen” — make sure you are satisfied with condition and functionality.

Do Your Research

Read relevant buyer guides before purchasing high-value items such as:

• Second-hand goods

• Pets (dogs, cats, horses)

• Cars

Advice for Sellers

• If buyers enter your home, keep valuables out of sight.

• Remember buyers may also feel cautious about meeting strangers, particularly when carrying cash.

• Never pay advance fees to anyone claiming they can connect you with buyers.

Payment Safety

For Buyers

• Do not pay in advance for goods.

• Never use Western Union or similar money transfer services.

• Use cash or bank drafts when possible.

• If paying via PayPal, select “Goods and Services”, not “Friends and Family,” to qualify for PayPal Buyer Protection.

Note: Some items (e.g. motor vehicles, motorcycles, caravans, boats, aircraft and certain machinery) are not eligible for PayPal Buyer Protection.

DoneDeal does not endorse any escrow services. Meeting in person remains the safest option.

For Sellers

• Do not hand over goods until full payment is received.

• Cash is straightforward but may not be suitable for large amounts.

• For large payments, use a bank draft — and verify it with the issuing bank before releasing the goods.

• Never accept foreign cheques.

• If accepting large amounts of cash, consider having notes checked by someone experienced in handling cash.

Final Reminder

Keep things simple.
Meet in person.
Inspect before paying.
Avoid pressure.

If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Safe dealing starts with good judgement — and a willingness to walk away when necessary.

Contact Us

If you have any further questions or would like to chat, please reach out to our Customer Support team.