– How to Avoid Disputes and Protect Yourself
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Selling a horse is not just a business transaction – it’s a complex legal process involving significant financial and emotional value. As a seller in Sweden, you have responsibilities toward the buyer, but you also have rights. With the right approach and proper legal guidance, you can reduce the risk of costly misunderstandings or disputes.
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This article explains your obligations under Swedish law, common complaints from buyers, and how you can legally protect yourself when selling horses.
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Are You Covered by the Swedish Consumer Sales Act?
If you sell horses as part of a business – for example, as a breeder, riding school, or horse dealer – and the buyer is a private individual, the sale falls under the Swedish Consumer Sales Act (konsumentköplagen).
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This means:
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You are liable for defects for up to three years
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Any fault discovered within six months is presumed to have existed at the time of sale unless you prove otherwise
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The buyer may demand repair, price reduction, cancellation of the sale, or compensation
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If the sale takes place between two private individuals or two businesses, the less strict Sale of Goods Act applies instead.
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Common Buyer Complaints in Horse Sales
Horse sellers in Sweden frequently face complaints such as:
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Undisclosed lameness or chronic injuries
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Behavioral issues like crib-biting or weaving
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Illnesses or medical conditions not mentioned prior to sale
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Claims that the horse is dangerous or aggressive
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Misrepresentation of age, training level, or breed
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The horse not being “suitable” for its intended purpose (e.g. beginner horse, jumping, dressage)
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In some cases, the problems arise after the sale, yet the seller is still held responsible.
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How to Protect Yourself Legally as a Seller
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Always use a written sales contract – with detailed and realistic descriptions
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Be transparent – avoid exaggerating in ads or verbal claims
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Document the horse’s condition at the time of sale, ideally with a vet exam or pre-purchase inspection
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Clearly state the intended use and limitations
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Disclose any known issues, no matter how minor
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Limit your liability in the contract when legally possible – though note that liability disclaimers have limited effect in consumer sales
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What to Do If the Buyer Files a Complaint
If a buyer comes back with a complaint or legal claim:
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Request documentation (e.g. vet reports, videos, expert opinions)
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Check whether the complaint was made within a reasonable timeframe
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Evaluate whether the issue existed at the time of sale
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Consult a lawyer with experience in horse-related disputes before making any formal response
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Some cases can be resolved through dialogue. But if the buyer involves legal representatives or threatens litigation, you should not handle it alone.
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Legal Services for Horse Sellers
We offer legal assistance to horse sellers in Sweden – whether you are a breeder, business owner, or private individual. Our services include:
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Drafting and reviewing horse sales contracts
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Legal analysis of complaints and liability
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Communication with buyers or their lawyers
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Dispute resolution and negotiation
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Legal representation before court or the National Board for Consumer Disputes (ARN)
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Summary
Selling a horse carries legal risks – but also gives you rights. By using proper contracts, realistic descriptions, and legal support, you can avoid many common disputes. And if a conflict does arise, we’re here to stand by your side.
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Need legal help with a horse sale or buyer dispute in Sweden? Contact us – we have solid experience with Swedish equine law and consumer protection.
