Faulty Washing Machine from Gumtree - Can I Get a Refund?

neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 13:30
Last edited 15/11/2018 - 14:32 by 1 other user

(Note, I'm trying to keep this succinct as I tend to waffle on)

Our washing machine blew up last week in a plume of dark smoke, we looked through Gumtree and found one my wife like - we negotiated on a price for the machine and delivery, as we don't have the muscle power or facility to pick it up.

Agreed on a time (5.30pm) for the machine to be dropped off.

Received a series of emails and phone calls, which delayed the delivery until 8.30pm at night. Paid cash. Kids were tired as it was past their bedtime, put them to bed. Wennt back to washing machine, hoses were missing. Sent email asking if they had them - got a response "no, but you can get it from Bunnings".

Next day, went to Bunnings, got the extra parts, plugged in. The machine is leaking everywhere - clearly not in the "good" condition described.

Do we have any way to get the goods refunded, and get our money back? I've already sent an SMS requesting refund, but doubt I'll hear back …

Thanks

Home & Garden Washing Machine

Related Stores

Gumtree
Gumtree

Comments

  • coxjon on 15/11/2018 - 13:33
    +44

    No unfortunately. You are allowed to test and then purchase if you are happy, but that time has come and gone :(

    • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 14:04

      Without the hoses there was no way I could have tested on the spot … even if the kids weren't acting ratty from being overtired …

      • Quantumcat on 15/11/2018 - 14:25
        +19

        You should have tested it at their place when it was hooked up

        • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 16:46
          -8

          Yes, hindsight is great foresight … but they said they used the hoses on their new machine (the advert read something like "good machine, we have upgraded to the stainless steel version"), so it likely wasn't hooked up …

          • Quantumcat on 15/11/2018 - 17:25
            +14

            @neophytte: Then you would have known it was missing parts :)

          • Melong on 17/11/2018 - 06:18
            +3

            @neophytte: Buyer beware when buying second hand from private seller

          • alikazi on 17/11/2018 - 15:15
            +2

            @neophytte: You can also ask the seller to record a video of the machine showing that it is working and record the serial number of the machine at the back and you can verify the number when you receive it. If the seller denies to do this, move on to another ad. A good seller will do this for you because it's only in their favour to get the item sold as quickly as possible. They can send the video via email or what's app. This is what I do for a lot of items I buy.

      • coxjon on 15/11/2018 - 16:05
        -2

        yeah, bad circumstances, obviously not in your favour. But sellers don't have to tell the truth and you don't have to buy

        • tanksinatra on 16/11/2018 - 13:46
          +2

          Well they do have to tell the truth, but they could always leave out details :/

      • zathras on 16/11/2018 - 14:34

        Drain the water and tip it on its side. Check if a hose has worked itself loose.
        My old one had that happen, the spin cycles can shake the hose clips loose sometimes.

        • neophytte on 16/11/2018 - 16:43
          +2

          Thanks - I'll check on the weekend …

      • KLoNe on 18/11/2018 - 14:45

        That's what you get for buying shit off Gumtree.

  • 87percent on 15/11/2018 - 13:33
    +39

    no way.. gumtree is buyer beware

    • Ulysses31 on 17/11/2018 - 06:22
      +3

      caveat emptor

  • CyberMurning on 15/11/2018 - 13:34
    -4

    bikies

  • boomramada on 15/11/2018 - 13:35
    +11

    ScumTree.

    • Piranha2004 on 16/11/2018 - 15:37
      +6

      In this case it's ScamTree

    • htc on 16/11/2018 - 20:49
      +5

      scumtree is better as it rhymes with gum.

  • 87percent on 15/11/2018 - 13:45
    +31

    geez, looking at your post history you've had

    1. flooring problems
    2. tv problems
    3. washing machine problems
    • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 14:06
      +2

      Heh - it's true - I turn to OzBargain when I have an issue (and in fairness, that's a summary of a 7 year history or so …)

    • HighAndDry on 15/11/2018 - 14:22
      +4

      I mean, OP could just be getting a lot of work done. On the other hand, the common thread in all of OP's posts is obviously OP. Maybe OP should adjust how they're currently balancing "cost vs quality".

      Actually, yeah over 7 years that's not a lot of issues. I've probably had more over that span.

      • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 14:46
        +5

        The issues (in summary) were:

        1) Got floorboards installed, supplier provided wrong ones. Partial refund received in 2011 from memory.
        2) TV repair man came to fix an issue with the remote, took TV away, was in accident, smashed TV. Received a payout (I still don't think it was enough, but I've moved on) in 2015 or so …
        3) You're reading it …

        But thanks for your honest comment on 'balancing "cost vs quality".', although this is the first time I've been burned on Gumtree (however, I'm not a large user of it, as well).

        I'll sometimes post replies to threads if I get a bargain, but the main ones I open are hoping someone has a "hidden" answer for me. I suspect the response to this topic is - "buyer beware" … :(

        Just checked - they were from Mar 2014, Aug 2016 and now Nov 2018 … so period was closer to 5 years, not 7 …

        • HighAndDry on 15/11/2018 - 14:49

          Oh yeah I edited later - didn't see it was over a 7 year period and I've probably had more issues in the same period.

          But yeah - it's always a gamble when it comes to buying second hand with zero guarantees or warranties, and even more so off of gumtree, basically to the point that it's a must that you check everything you buy on there, or buy knowing it could fall to pieces the moment you let go of the cash.

          And while you paid a low price…. personally I'd pay a bit more just for peace of mind. Who knows, even including the duds, you might still come out ahead in the end.

        • alikazi on 17/11/2018 - 15:09

          You sound accident prone. Your existing washing machine went up in dark smoke. Then there's all these other repairs. What did you do to it? Did you try to wash the microwave inside the washing machine?

          • neophytte on 18/11/2018 - 00:22

            @alikazi: Not sure I understand why you think we're "accident prone" - the existing washing machine was about 5 years old for us (which we bought 2nd hand), I reckon some kids socks got sucked into the drum, blowing the motor … but machines don't last forever … but thanks for the video suggestion further up; that's a great idea

  • iforgotmysocks on 15/11/2018 - 13:56
    +1

    Lol

  • apu on 15/11/2018 - 14:03
    +24

    I think you got scammed. They probably picked it up off the side of the road (hence why hoses were missing) or tactically they knew that the machine would leak, so they removed the hoses so you couldn't test it on the spot. How much did you pay?

    • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 14:06
      +3

      $250 including delivery …

      • ihbh on 15/11/2018 - 16:50
        +9

        As a lesson for next time, check what a new one costs. Ours font loader cost $480 incl delivery and installation 2 years ago. At this price why would buy a dodgy one from gumtree?

        • rave75 on 16/11/2018 - 14:30

          my new tiny samsung top loader costs $250 after $50 cashback. It is tiny but not leaking at all!

      • cosmos on 16/11/2018 - 22:56
        +1

        We sold our old front loader washing machine two weeks back on Gumtree, for $150, it was a well working and good conditioned machine.

        Maybe next time check the sellers’s past listings/sales and comments.

        Keep trying to contact the seller and say you are going to drop the machine back and ask for refund, not sure if that would work, but is there anything else that can be done?

        Good luck next time.

    • solidussnake on 16/11/2018 - 15:16
      +2

      Plus he delivered it so they don't have is home addess LOL

      • ireadtermsofuse on 17/11/2018 - 08:53
        +1

        See if they’re selling anything else and just use that item to go to their house

  • CLoSeR on 15/11/2018 - 14:05
    +3

    Buyer beware, this is no different than buying a car or any other item privately.

    No guarantees, no refunds.

    Had the opportunity to test before, how much did you pay for it? You can pickup a new washing machine for under $500 so I'm guessing this was very cheap otherwise not worth the risk.

    • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 14:07
      +1

      It was $250, including the delivery …

      • CLoSeR on 15/11/2018 - 14:33
        +2

        Ouch.

      • Ulysses31 on 17/11/2018 - 06:24

        … Plus the cost of its working replacement.

        Sorry.

        • neophytte on 18/11/2018 - 00:24
          +1

          It's a valid comment …

      • KLoNe on 18/11/2018 - 14:46
        -2

        Why didn't you just pick it up off the side of the road like the seller obviously did?

  • gaz3342 on 15/11/2018 - 14:06

    How much did you pay for it?

    2nd hand washing machines are a murky market.

    I bought the Kogan washing machine, had it just over a month and doing a great job so far.

  • 87percent on 15/11/2018 - 14:11

    i think you'll have to cut your losses and sell it on, or get it repaired.. or google the model number and see if there's a youtube video out there and if you can fix it yourself

    • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 14:20

      It's this one, the leaking seems to be a common problem …. https://www.productreview.com.au/p/whirlpool-wfs1285aw.html

      • josetann on 15/11/2018 - 15:49

        Did you read the review that said "i put forward a review about water spilling over the detergent drawer a couple of days ago but then found that you have to take out the 2 pins in the back which solves this problem, no it's great." ?

        I somehow doubt the solution is as simple as that, but if it was that'd be great.

  • Marcsie on 15/11/2018 - 14:30
    -2

    lol

  • garetz on 15/11/2018 - 14:31
    +5

    Someone willing to deliver a waching machine knows they are selling something that is not working, otherwise they would state only pickup, and show it working to the perspective buyer. The effort involved is more than its worth unless the item is worthless to begin with. At least its a good lesson for you for a relatively cheap price.

  • roundnumbersonly on 15/11/2018 - 14:50
    +9

    If only you had slipped on an onion at bunnings. Could have potentially bought yourself a brand new washing machine.

    In all seriousness, I think you're better off buying a brand new washing machine/one with a warranty. Having no washing machine with kids sucks.

    • HighAndDry on 15/11/2018 - 15:17

      If only you had slipped on an onion at bunnings.

      Am I the only one who thinks that that's ridiculous? Because of that, we now have soggy(er) sausage sizzles with onions pressed against the bread instead of on the snags like they're supposed to be.

      All because some dumbass couldn't look where he was stepping.

      • orangetrain on 16/11/2018 - 08:35
        +1

        Link to article about dumbass?

        What I've read was OH&S gone mad.

        • Hirolol on 16/11/2018 - 10:08
          +2

          More than one idiot btw.
          Onions are a serious hazard.

          https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/retail/near-fatal-n…

          • HighAndDry on 16/11/2018 - 10:17

            @Hirolol:

            “For me personally, that one trip to Bunnings has nearly cost me my career as a theatre nurse, my home and at my darkest time when I could see no future, nearly my life,” she wrote, apparently referring to a threat to both her physical health and her ability to earn an income as a nurse.

            “Besides the pain, surgery and an unknown future (as a result of the fall), I was more offended by the laughter and comments over the whole issue than anything else.

            HAHAHAHAHAH Oh god, anyone know how to let her know there's one more person laughing at her?

            • miicah on 16/11/2018 - 16:26
              +2

              @HighAndDry: Hahha yeah brain injuries are (profanity) hilarious!

              • HighAndDry on 16/11/2018 - 16:31
                +1

                @miicah: No, blaming others for being blind (while not actually visually impaired) and slipping on bloody onions is hilarious.

            • idonotknowwhy on 16/11/2018 - 17:57

              @HighAndDry: Lol. I'm getting scared to comment now in case I get sued.

      • rompastompa on 16/11/2018 - 10:20
        +2

        I don't know why you guys use sandwich bread.. WA gets rolls, so it doesn't matter which side the onion is on!

        Additionally, if people picked up after themselves, there wouldn't be this issue.. If you drop onions while you're eating, pick it up! Ask for a napkin if necessary!

        • orangetrain on 16/11/2018 - 12:51
          +1

          Sandwich bread is very cheap

      • AddNinja on 16/11/2018 - 17:52
        +1

        Just for the record - I agree with HighAndDry on this. An outdoor sausage sizzle will require an adult to negotiate many obstructions: curbs, children, birds etc.

  • pantsparty on 15/11/2018 - 15:04

    Unfortunately Gumtree = buyer beware - got to be careful!

  • Ace Ventura on 15/11/2018 - 15:44
    +4

    All above is correct, you have no follow up with the previous owner, you should have tested it. Not having time, any other issues are not of concern to the seller.

    But where is it leaking from?
    From the hose fittings? or is the water running out the bottom of the machine? May be a simple problem, may be cross threaded the hoses with out realising.
    Maybe the hoses you grabbed don't have the rubber seal in them, they could have fallen off while instore.
    It could be something simple. You may be able to get her operating as required.

    • resisting the urge on 15/11/2018 - 16:04

      +1

      All this can happen on a new machine: Apart from the obvious installation's pipe connections, there a re a number of things to check - have you followed the manual? If it doesn't ahve one, try finding a copy online

      In transit it a hose could have come off.
      If it has a filter down low, it may not be properly sealed

      Washing machines have simple plumbing, a leak is likely to be straight forward to resolve.

      • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 17:05

        Thanks for the suggestion - I'll have a closer look tonight (it was close to midnight when we were initially testing this, and back to work today …)

        • resisting the urge on 15/11/2018 - 17:42

          You may need to lie it on its side to inspect the hoses inside, or unscrew the rear to get a good look. Have a decent torch ready so you don't miss a small cut/tear/pin-hole in a hose, or telltale signs of water in the dark places. Taking an hour or so to inspect and fix this yourself could be a lot easier than your other options.

          Tip: If you fix anything, make sure you use the right repair/part/tools/hardware else happy life will be at risk. Appliances are expected to work, just like husbands

    • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 17:04
      -1

      Thanks, but without the hoses, there was no way I could have tested (even without the time issues).

      It's leaking from underneath - as per the previous post the reviews on them haven't been good: https://www.productreview.com.au/p/whirlpool-wfs1285aw.html

      • Ace Ventura on 15/11/2018 - 17:26
        +2

        Even if leaking from underneath, it is still probably rather simple, A split hose, could have happened in transit, cheap fix. The hose clamps that hold them on may be lose, just need a screwdriver to fix.
        I wouldn't give up on it, if you have a friend who is a little bit handy with the tools I'd get them to have a look.

  • KingJuf on 15/11/2018 - 16:12

    nope no chance unless the seller feels guilty and decides to do it. I bought a washing machine that was tested working, took it home and it kept turning off. Called him back and he agreed to exchange it, I bought it off a guy who repairs washing machines which in hind sight I shouldnt have. Lesson learnt when this one dies I will be buying a new one and never second hand for a washing machine.

    • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 17:06

      I doubt that will happen for us, but I'm glad you had a good experience.

      • KingJuf on 15/11/2018 - 17:25
        +1

        Yep there are still decent people out there, but I definitely wouldnt count on it when it comes to Gumtree.

      • xuqi on 16/11/2018 - 13:57

        Unfortunately you've been scammed so chalk this up to a learning experience and move on.

  • Seraphin7 on 15/11/2018 - 16:37
    +2

    You got Scumtreed. Only take delivery of such items once you're sure the thing is working, or if you don't care that much that it's not.

    • neophytte on 15/11/2018 - 17:08

      Thanks for the input …

      • Seraphin7 on 15/11/2018 - 17:50
        +3

        No worries, thanks for the opportunity …

        • Hirolol on 16/11/2018 - 10:11

          Thanks for sharing.
          I enjoyed hearing what you had to say.

          • Seraphin7 on 16/11/2018 - 12:16

            @Hirolol: You can hear more by subscribing to my newsletter …

  • lainey13 on 15/11/2018 - 22:58

    Do you have the address of where you would have picked it up from?
    Just dump it back on them.

    • Ughhh on 16/11/2018 - 10:38

      So the seller can resell it to another buyer and get double money?

      Unless op wants to threaten the seller and /or they're nice, he can dump the machine, but he ain't getting his money back.

      • lainey13 on 16/11/2018 - 14:26

        You underestimate what I meant by 'dump'

  • afah0447 on 16/11/2018 - 09:26
    +1

    Secondary goods market.

    Ain't nothing you can do.

  • chumlee on 16/11/2018 - 10:15

    $250 + another washer now = $600 at least now.

  • altomic on 16/11/2018 - 10:27

    where is it leaking from exactly?
    what make and model is it?

    have you checked the drainage tube/ filter plug (bottom left or right on the front of the machine) are closed properly?
    are the water inlet hoses connected properly?
    have you inspected the outlet hose for damage?
    have you checked the door seal for rips (including folding it back to check "within" the seal)?
    does water flow down the front of the machine from the door?
    or is it pooling from underneath?

    • neophytte on 16/11/2018 - 16:51

      Whirlpool WFS1285AW - I've done rudimentary checks on the hoses, but will have a decent look on the weekend when it's daylight, it seems to be pooling underneath …

  • minniethemoocher on 16/11/2018 - 12:10
    +1

    I know you bought it from Gumtree but some businesses sell on Gumtree too. Did you buy it from a business or a private person?

    • tanksinatra on 16/11/2018 - 13:51

      Yeah as mentioned, Gumtree has nothing to do with this. Just like if you bought at a garage sale.
      Private sales are a private agreement an not covered by consumer protection legislation.
      However a business selling goods is different. If your seller is operating a commercial enterprise then they might have some further obligations.

      Having said all that, are you sure the washing machine is a complete dud? Washing machines can leak from anywhere. If it hasn't been used in a while time then a seal could have perished. Might be a cheap fix?
      Buying a washing machine without the hoses is a little dodgy though. I've sold one or two and I've always included the hoses as well as any documentation (manuals, brackets etc).

      If having tired kids makes it difficult to inspect then you probably shouldn't be buying used goods. Just get a cheap one new. They're <$600 new. Not really that expensive.

      • Ulysses31 on 19/11/2018 - 21:25

        Does all this apply to eBay??

        I thought I'd read this was for Auctions, not sales.

        • tanksinatra on 21/11/2018 - 12:31

          Does all this apply to eBay??

          I thought I'd read this was for Auctions, not sales.

          The above applies to any PRIVATE sale (including private sales on eBay, Gumtree, trading post etc). Otherwise known as consumer to consumer transacting.
          If you want more details, have a look at the website of your state governments consumer protection department.

          e.g. in QLD it states:

          Many consumer guarantees do not apply if you buy goods from a private person, rather than through a commercial store. Only the consumer guarantees for clear title, undisturbed possession and freedom from hidden securities apply.

          and

          Many consumer guarantees do not cover any goods you buy at an auction. This is because the auctioneer is selling the goods on behalf of a private owner.

          However

          if you buy through an eBay auction from a commercial store, all of your consumer guarantees do apply.

          https://www.qld.gov.au/law/your-rights/consumer-rights-compl…

          Hope that helps.

  • pformag on 16/11/2018 - 13:40
    -1

    A washing machine should only be bought new.

    • Dangit on 16/11/2018 - 14:21

      I know right XD

  • DarkOz on 16/11/2018 - 14:16
    +5

    That scumtree seller probably picked up the washing machine from a footpath. Easy money from buyers like OP. Sorry OP, lesson learnt.

  • rave75 on 16/11/2018 - 14:27
    +1

    LOL

  • myusername on 16/11/2018 - 14:33

    get a refund from gumtree?

    i love how the op has a sense of humour

    gumtree = scummtree

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