A condition report is a written assessment of a lot’s physical state — cracks, stains, repairs, missing components, signs of wear, restoration history. For high-value lots, condition reports may include detailed photos, magnification of damage areas, and ultraviolet inspection results.
Bidders rely on condition reports to bid confidently without inspecting in person. Inaccurate condition reports are one of the most common sources of post-sale disputes. Sotheby’s-tier auction houses are legally bound to issue condition reports on request; consumer-grade platforms typically rely on the consignor’s own descriptions and photos, which can be less reliable.
Different categories require different condition vocabulary. Furniture: “light surface wear consistent with age” vs. “significant restoration to top” vs. “structural break, repaired.” Watches: “original dial” vs. “refinished dial” vs. “service replacement.” Vehicles: a Carfax-equivalent narrative covering accidents, mileage, paintwork, and mechanical history. The buyer’s post-sale recourse hinges on the gap between what the condition report disclosed and what the item actually is — so accuracy is both ethical and legally necessary.