Principle and Application
The Latin maxim "caveat emptor" is interpreted as "Let the buyer beware."
This principle emphasizes a buyer's responsibility to inspect and verify the quality of goods before purchase. It implies that the seller is not liable for defects or issues that the buyer could have reasonably discovered through due diligence.
The principle was established in the case of Chandelor v. Lopus [1603] 73 ER 3.
In this case, Lopus (the plaintiff) purchased what he believed to be a bezoar stone from a goldsmith, Chandelor (the defendant). Chandelor claimed the object was a bezoar stone, but this proved false. Since Chandelor made no warranty, it was unclear whether he himself believed the object to be a bezoar stone. Lopus brought an action against Chandelor. However, the King’s Bench ruled in favor of the seller, stating that the buyer should have verified the product's quality before purchase, as no written warranty had been provided.
Compiled by Lkite Temilorun
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