Scam Alerts & Buying Safely
Most private marketplace transactions are straightforward, but scammers target buyers and sellers wherever valuable caravans, vehicles, mobile homes and other items are advertised.
Learn the warning signs before sending money, handing over an item or sharing personal information.
If Something Doesn't Feel Right — Don't Rush
Pressure, unusual payment arrangements and deals that seem significantly cheaper than expected are reasons to stop and check before proceeding.
Common Marketplace Scams
These are some of the situations buyers and sellers should recognise.
Cloned or Copied Adverts
A scammer may copy photographs and details from a genuine caravan, vehicle or mobile home advert and advertise the same item elsewhere at an attractive price. Ask for additional current photographs and verify the item actually exists.
Pressure to Pay a Deposit Before Viewing
Be particularly cautious if a seller claims there are many interested buyers and insists you transfer a substantial deposit immediately to secure an item you have not seen.
Fake Payment Confirmations
Sellers can receive convincing-looking emails or messages claiming money has been sent. Check your own bank or payment account directly rather than relying on a screenshot, email or message supplied by a buyer.
Overpayment & Refund Requests
A buyer may claim to have accidentally paid too much and ask you to return the difference. Never send money back purely because an email, screenshot or message says a payment was made.
Courier or Transporter Stories
Be cautious when someone claims a courier or transporter will collect the item but asks you to pay an upfront transport, insurance or release fee.
Changed Bank Details
If payment details suddenly change during a transaction, verify them directly with the person or business using contact details you already know are genuine.
Warning Signs
One warning sign does not prove fraud, but several together should make you cautious.
If You're Buying
- View expensive items in person whenever practical.
- Check that the seller and item match the advert.
- Ask to see relevant paperwork and identification numbers.
- Research comparable prices before paying.
- Do not be pressured into rushing a transfer.
- Keep copies or screenshots of the advert and correspondence.
- Use payment methods appropriate to the transaction and understand what protection they provide.
If You're Selling
- Check your own account before believing payment has arrived.
- Don't accept screenshots as proof of cleared funds.
- Be wary of buyers offering more than the asking price.
- Don't pay a buyer's courier, transporter or insurance fee.
- Keep messages and details relating to the transaction.
- Do not hand over an expensive item until agreed funds have genuinely cleared.
Extra Checks for Higher-Value Purchases
Caravans & Vehicles
Check identification numbers, paperwork and history where appropriate. Make sure the person selling the vehicle or caravan can reasonably demonstrate their right to sell it.
Mobile Homes & Statics
Confirm exactly what is included, whether the unit is on-site or must be removed, and who is responsible for transport and associated costs.
Land, Yards & Sites
Use appropriate legal professionals and independently verify ownership, boundaries, access, permitted use and planning matters before committing substantial funds.
Think You've Been Scammed?
- Stop further payments or contact if you believe you are dealing with a fraudster.
- Contact your bank or payment provider immediately if money or payment details are involved.
- Keep evidence including the advert, messages, emails, payment details and seller information.
- Report suspected fraud. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, fraud can be reported through Report Fraud. In Scotland, contact Police Scotland.
- Tell us about the advert so we can review any listing appearing on this marketplace.
Where to Get Help
Report Fraud
Suspected fraud in England, Wales and Northern Ireland can be reported to the UK's national fraud reporting service. The current telephone number is 0300 123 2040.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice provides consumer guidance about scams, purchases and getting help when something has gone wrong.
Marketplace Safety FAQs
Is a very cheap caravan always a scam?
No, but a price substantially below comparable caravans is a reason to carry out additional checks before sending money.
Should I pay a deposit before viewing?
Buyers should understand exactly who they are dealing with and what they are paying for before sending money. Be particularly cautious where a substantial deposit is demanded before an item can be inspected.
A buyer has sent me proof of payment. Can I release the item?
Check your own bank or payment account. A screenshot, email or message supplied by another person is not proof that cleared funds are actually available to you.
What should I do about a suspicious advert on this site?
Do not send money and report the advert to us so it can be reviewed.