Terms and Conditions
These Terms govern the sale of items at Hutchinson Scott Auctioneers, whether by auction, private sale or other means, and apply to all buyers, sellers and third parties. By participating in any sale you agree to be bound by them. The Auction House sells as agent for the seller and is not responsible for any default by seller or buyer. Any statement as to ownership, attribution, genuineness, origin, date, age, provenance, condition or estimated selling price is a statement of opinion only.
Buyer’s premium
On the hammer price of each lot purchased there will be a buyer’s premium at the rate of 25% + VAT (30% inclusive of VAT at 20%). Books and unframed maps are zero-rated for VAT, so buyers of lots that only include books or unframed maps will not pay VAT on the buyer’s premium. All goods are sold under the Auctioneer’s Margin Scheme unless otherwise specified. Motor vehicles are subject to a reduced buyer’s premium of 12.5% + VAT (15%) where applicable. Bidding live through this website carries a 3% (plus VAT) surcharge.
Bidding
All bidders must register prior to the auction and provide valid identification and payment details. At the fall of the hammer the highest bidder is deemed the buyer and enters into a legally binding contract with the vendor. Commission bids are executed free of charge for the lowest price allowed by other bids and reserves. Telephone bidding is by prior arrangement only, subject to availability of lines, and only on lots with a lower estimate of at least £300. The majority of lots are offered subject to a confidential reserve, and the auctioneer may bid on behalf of the seller up to the reserve.
Payment
The buyer must pay the full hammer price plus buyer’s premium and VAT within 7 days of the auction; title does not pass until payment has cleared. Payment is accepted by cash, debit card (Visa and MasterCard) and bank transfer, in pounds sterling. Card-not-present debit card payments are accepted up to £2,500 from cards registered to UK addresses.
Collection, storage and delivery
Buyers are responsible for collecting purchased lots within 14 days of the auction. Free storage is provided for five working days following the sale; thereafter a storage and handling charge of £2.00 plus VAT per lot per day is payable, together with any associated removal costs. Uncollected lots with unpaid storage may, after reasonable notice, be re-entered into auction to recover outstanding charges. The Auction House may by prior arrangement assist with delivery or shipping at the buyer’s sole cost and risk; shipping charges are not refundable once the service has been initiated.
Sellers
Seller’s commission is 10% of the hammer price plus VAT, and a 1% insurance charge; there are no fees if an item is unsold. Proof of name and address is required when selling at auction.
Questions? Call 01756 798 333 or email sales@hutchinsonscott.co.uk.