Terms of sale

These conditions of business govern every sale held by Heritage & Hearth Ltd ("the House"). By bidding you agree to them.

1. The House

The House acts as agent for the seller, except where a lot is marked as owned by the House. The contract of sale is between the seller and the buyer.

2. Registration and bidding

Bidders must register and may be asked for identification. A bid is a binding offer; the House may refuse a bid, withdraw a lot or divide and combine lots at its discretion. The lot is sold to the highest bidder when the countdown ends, subject to the seller's reserve.

3. Buyer's premium and taxes

The buyer pays the hammer price, the buyer's premium set out in the buyer's guide, VAT where it applies, and any shipping and insurance.

4. Payment and ownership

Payment is due within seven days of the sale. Ownership passes to the buyer when the House has received the full amount in cleared funds. The House may charge interest on late payments and, after fourteen days, resell the lot at the buyer's risk.

5. Collection and risk

Risk passes to the buyer at the fall of the hammer. Lots not collected within fourteen days are stored at the buyer's expense.

6. Descriptions and condition

Descriptions, estimates and condition reports are statements of opinion made in good faith by our specialists and are not guarantees. Lots are sold as seen. A buyer who believes that a lot is a deliberate forgery may return it within twenty-one days with the evidence, under the conditions set out in the sale notice.

7. Sellers

The seller warrants that he or she owns the lot and may sell it. The House's commission, any fees and the payment date are set out in the consignment agreement.

8. Liability

The House's liability to a buyer is limited to the amount paid for the lot, except where the law does not allow it to be limited.

9. Law

These conditions are governed by the law of England and Wales and any dispute is for the courts of London.