11 July 2026 · 5 min read
Buying used from a private seller or a business: what are your rights?
The same used item, two very different stories: buy it from a business and consumer law protects you, buy it from a private person on Bolha or Facebook and you are largely buying on trust.
This is not legal advice but a practical overview of what to expect in each case. For a concrete dispute, check current information with the Slovenian Consumers’ Association or on gov.si.
Buying from a business: a guarantee even for used goods
When you buy used goods from a business, a mandatory conformity guarantee applies. For new goods it lasts two years; for used goods a shorter period can be agreed, but as a rule not less than one year.
That means: if the item fails because of a defect that existed at purchase, you have the right to repair, replacement or a refund. Keep the receipt, it is your main proof.
Buying online from a business: 14 days to change your mind
For distance purchases from a business (web shop, ordering online) you generally have 14 days to withdraw from the contract without giving a reason and return the goods.
There are exceptions, but for ordinary used tech the rule holds: if the item is not right for you, return it within 14 days. Return shipping is usually on the buyer if that was stated up front.
Buying from a private person: whatever you two agree
Between two private individuals, consumer law does not apply. There is no 14-day return and no mandatory guarantee; the seller’s general liability for defects under contract law remains, but it is harder to enforce in practice.
So with a private seller, verify everything before paying: test the item in person, save the listing and the conversation, and avoid prepayments.
Side-by-side
- ·Price: private seller usually lower, business somewhat higher.
- ·Guarantee: business at least one year for used goods, private seller none.
- ·Online returns: business 14 days, private seller by agreement or none.
- ·Verification: a business answers for the description, with a private seller you check yourself.
- ·Receipt: a business issues one; with a private seller, at least write up a simple sales note.
When something goes wrong
With a business: report the defect in writing as soon as possible, describe the problem and attach the receipt. The business must respond within the statutory deadline.
With a private person: try to settle it in conversation first, because most cases end there. If not, civil remedies exist but rarely pay off for small amounts. The best protection is caution before the purchase.
Frequently asked questions
Does used gear bought from a business come with a guarantee?+
Yes. Used goods bought from a business carry a mandatory conformity guarantee; a shorter period than for new goods can be agreed, but as a rule not less than one year. Check details with the Slovenian Consumers’ Association.
Can I return a used item bought online within 14 days?+
If you bought from a business at a distance, generally yes, no reason needed. If you bought from a private person, you do not have that right unless you explicitly agreed on it.
What are my rights when buying from a private seller on Bolha or Facebook?+
Consumer law does not apply between private individuals. The seller’s general liability for defects remains but is harder to enforce, so verify everything before paying and save the listing and your conversation.
What proof of purchase should I ask for?+
A receipt from a business; from a private seller at least a simple signed sales note with the date, amount, item description, and for electronics also the serial number or IMEI.
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