What goes wrong buying tools & diy used
Cordless tools sold without batteries or a charger, which can cost more to replace than the tool is worth, and worn brushes on corded tools.
Misrepresentation and fakes
Counterfeit batteries and chargers are widespread and are a genuine fire risk. Fake tools themselves are rarer but exist in the premium brands.
How to verify before you pay
Ask which battery platform it takes, exactly what is included, and for a photograph of the tool running. Buy batteries from a reputable source rather than with the tool.
WishThrift does not authenticate, inspect or grade anything, and does not hold funds. You are buying on the seller’s description and photographs, so ask directly — a seller who has the item will answer in minutes.
What you should expect to pay
Across this category, guide prices run from about £15 to £500 (approximately $20 to $666) depending on the item and its condition. Grades run New with Tags, Like New, Good, Fair and For Parts — what each one means.
Sterling guide ranges with an approximate US dollar equivalent at £1 ≈ $1.33 (July 2026).
What each one typically costs
The most-searched items in this category, with the guide range a buyer should expect:
| Item | Good condition | Full range |
|---|---|---|
| Cordless Drill | £20–£117 | £30–£180 (~$40–$240) |
| Tool Set | £13–£98 | £20–£150 (~$27–$200) |
| Power Drill | £16–£98 | £25–£150 (~$33–$200) |
| Generator | £52–£325 | £80–£500 (~$107–$666) |
| Pressure Washer | £26–£130 | £40–£200 (~$53–$266) |
| Circular Saw | £20–£117 | £30–£180 (~$40–$240) |
| Angle Grinder | £13–£78 | £20–£120 (~$27–$160) |
| Ladder | £16–£78 | £25–£120 (~$33–$160) |
Every tools & diy buying guide
- Angle Grinder
- Circular Saw
- Compressor
- Cordless Drill
- Generator
- Jigsaw Tool
- Ladder
- Power Drill
- Pressure Washer
- Sander
- Socket Set
- Step Ladder
- Tile Cutter
- Tool Set
- Wallpaper Steamer
- Welder
- Workbench
Frequently asked questions
What should I check before buying tools & diy second hand?
Ask which battery platform it takes, exactly what is included, and for a photograph of the tool running. Buy batteries from a reputable source rather than with the tool.
What goes wrong most often?
Cordless tools sold without batteries or a charger, which can cost more to replace than the tool is worth, and worn brushes on corded tools.
Does WishThrift check the item for me?
No. WishThrift does not authenticate, inspect or grade anything, and does not hold funds or offer buyer protection. Condition is described by the seller against five grades and the photographs are what you are buying on — which is why these 17 guides exist.
See also: all buying guides · Tools & DIY listed now · selling guides · condition grades.