What if the property is in poor condition or has been stripped out?
When buying at auction, it’s important to understand that the property is sold exactly as seen — and as described in the legal pack. There are no guarantees about the condition of the building, fixtures, or even whether the property will be left intact between exchange and completion.
In some cases, especially with repossession, probate, or vacant properties, buyers have found that:
- The kitchen or bathroom has been removed
- Boilers, wiring, or copper piping have been stripped
- The property has been vandalised or damaged
- Rubbish or abandoned belongings have been left behind
What does the contract say?
Most auction contracts include clauses such as:
- The buyer accepts the property in the physical condition it is in at the time of the auction
- The seller gives no warranties or guarantees about condition
- The buyer is responsible for any issues discovered after exchange
In other words, you buy at your own risk — and the seller has no obligation to fix or reinstate anything that is damaged or removed after the auction.
What can I do to protect myself?
- Always view the property in person, if possible.
- Read the auction legal pack thoroughly — look for disclaimers, possession terms, or any reference to “as seen”.
- If condition is a concern, consider commissioning a survey before the auction.
- Assume the worst-case scenario for repairs and budget accordingly.
If you discover damage after exchange, you usually have no legal remedy, unless the seller has deliberately misled you (which is rare and hard to prove).
Will the property be cleared?
Unless the auction pack specifically promises “vacant possession” and clearance, the seller is not obliged to remove items. You may need to:
- Arrange a clearance company at your own cost
- Dispose of unwanted items or furnishings
- Take further steps if hazardous waste is left behind
Summary
At auction, what you see is what you get — and sometimes, what you get may be worse than expected. The property may be in poor condition, vandalised, or missing key fittings. That’s why it’s vital to inspect the property beforehand, read the legal pack closely, and get advice from experienced auction solicitors like Versus Law. We can help you assess the risks — before you’re locked in.










