To sell a horse legally in the UK, you must hold full ownership, provide a valid passport, and use a clear written contract. UK law also requires compliance with the Animal Welfare Act. If the horse is shared or on loan, written consent from all parties is necessary before listing it for sale. This section breaks down the essentials.

 Do You Need a Sales Contract?

Why It Matters

Yes, a contract is necessary. It confirms the sale terms, protects both parties, and avoids misunderstandings.

What to Include

List the horse’s age, breed, microchip number, agreed price, payment method, and conditions for vetting or returns. Mention any health issues and what’s included in the sale, like tack or rugs.

 Is a horse passport mandatory?

Legal Obligation

Absolutely, it’s a legal obligation. A valid horse passport must be in place before any sale, change of ownership, or movement of the horse takes place.

Required Details

The passport must show the horse’s ID, microchip number, medication history, and the registered owner’s name.

How to Apply or Update

Contact a DEFRA-approved organisation like Pet-ID Equine or the Horse Passport Agency. Submit a form and fee to apply or update ownership details before selling.

What if the horse is on loan or shared ownership?

Getting Permission

Written consent is essential. If the horse is co-owned or under a loan agreement, all parties must agree to the sale.

Resolving Issues

Handle disagreements early. Review the loan or ownership documents. If needed, get legal advice to avoid conflict or future claims. Only advertise the horse once everyone signs off.

What Paperwork Do You Need to Sell a Horse?

Selling a horse legally in the UK means having a valid horse passport, a clear bill of sale, and ideally a recent vet certificate. The passport confirms the horse’s identity and age.

The bill of sale shows agreement on price and terms. A vet certificate builds buyer trust and reduces risk of dispute. Skipping any of these steps could cost you later.

Horse Passport

Every horse in the UK must have a passport by law. It’s illegal to sell or transport a horse without one.

The passport contains key details like the horse’s name, age, breed, microchip number, and medication history. It also confirms who the legal owner is.

Once sold, the new owner must update the passport within 30 days. This is done through the Passport Issuing Organisation (PIO).

Skipping this step can lead to fines. It also makes you liable if anything goes wrong after the sale.

 Vet Certificate or Pre-Sale Exam

• A vet check isn’t mandatory but highly recommended, as most serious buyers expect one before purchase.
• A 5-stage vetting is the most thorough. It checks the horse’s health at rest, during work, and recovery.
• The vet will check for lameness, breathing, heart rhythm, and past injuries. It’s done by an independent vet chosen by the buyer.
• For horses under £2,000 or kept for hacking, a 2-stage vetting might be enough. But having any vet check builds trust.

Bill of Sale or Receipt

A signed bill of sale safeguards both you and the buyer. It confirms the sale and outlines the agreed term.

You should include:

• Full names and contact details

• Horse details (name, breed, age, passport no.)

• Sale date and price

• Special terms like “sold as seen”

Both parties need to sign and keep a copy.

You can use a free template from the British Horse Society or ask an equine solicitor.

Where Can You List a Horse for Sale Legally in the UK?

Online Marketplaces (UK-based)

You can legally list your horse for sale through UK-based online marketplaces, local yards and tack shops, horse shows, and equestrian social media groups — but you must follow the same legal responsibilities regardless of where the sale happens.

The platform doesn’t remove your duty to provide correct information or complete legal paperwork.

Each method has its own pros. Online platforms like Sell Your Horse give wide exposure.

Local noticeboards at riding schools or tack shops help connect with nearby buyers.

Social media groups are fast and easy, but not always reliable without proper contracts.

Local Yards, Tack Shops, or Horse Shows

You can post flyers at local stables, shows, or tack shops, but legal rules still apply — even in informal sales. Just because it feels casual doesn’t mean it’s exempt from paperwork.

Networking in person builds trust fast, especially in tight-knit equestrian communities. But always follow through with written contracts, passports, and a proper bill of sale.

Include clear photos and contact details on flyers. Make sure the description is accurate. Don’t use language like “bombproof” unless the horse is truly safe in all situations.

How to Set a Fair Price Without Getting Burned

Pricing by Age, Breed, Training, and Discipline

The fair price of a horse depends on its age, breed, training level, and what it’s suitable for.

Buyers expect to pay more for a horse that’s well-schooled, safe, and ready to compete or hack.

Younger horses (under 5) tend to be cheaper unless professionally started. Older horses over 15 might drop in value unless they’re seasoned schoolmasters.

A Welsh pony used for light riding might sell for £1,500–£3,000, while a Warmblood trained for show jumping or dressage could fetch £10,000+. Thoroughbreds off the track usually range from £800 to £3,000 depending on retraining.

Include Extras in Your Price or Not?

It’s up to you whether to include tack, rugs, or transport, but be clear in the advert to avoid arguments later. Hidden charges after agreement can lead to buyer disputes.

If the tack is custom-fitted to the horse, you can raise the price a bit. For instance, offer “£3,200 with tack or £2,800 without.” Extras like rugs or grooming gear can be listed separately as optional add-ons.

Transport should usually be priced separately, unless you’re offering local delivery. Never assume — always list it.

What to Disclose When Selling Your Horse?

Be Honest About Health and Behaviour

You’re legally and ethically required to disclose any known health or behavioural issues before selling your horse. If you hide problems, you risk legal action under the Consumer Rights Act or Misrepresentation laws.

Buyers have taken sellers to court over horses that rear, bolt, or have long-term illnesses that weren’t mentioned. One real case involved a seller hiding a history of laminitis — they were ordered to refund the sale price and pay for vet costs.

If your horse is green, quirky, or nervous in traffic, say so upfront. Buyers value honesty. A truthful advert builds trust and prevents complaints.

Declare Medication, Vices, or Past Injuries

Always list any vices, previous injuries, or current medications in both the advert and sales contract. Common examples include weaving, box-walking, crib-biting, and biting or kicking.

If your horse has had a tendon injury, even if recovered, it must be declared. Omitting this may result in claims of misrepresentation.

Write it clearly. Don’t downplay or use vague terms like “quirky” if the horse has a history of bucking.

Should You Let the Buyer Try the Horse First?

What to Do Before a Trial Ride

Yes, but protect yourself. Always get signed consent and check your insurance covers third-party riders. Accidents can lead to claims, even if it wasn’t your fault.

Ask the buyer to sign a waiver confirming they ride at their own risk and wear proper safety gear. Keep someone present during the ride.

Trial Periods – Legal Risks and Protections

Only agree to trials with a signed contract that clearly outlines terms. State who’s responsible for costs like transport, feed, and vet care. Clarify what happens if the horse is injured or not returned. Always get a deposit.

What to Do After the Sale Is Complete

Notify the Passport Issuing Organisation (PIO)

You are legally required in the UK to inform the Passport Issuing Organisation (PIO) within 30 days of the sale to update the horse’s ownership details.

You can do this by filling in the transfer section in the horse’s passport and sending it to the relevant PIO. Some organisations also offer online transfer options — check their website for details. Failing to notify them can lead to fines and confusion over ownership later.

Keep a Copy of All Documents

Always keep your own copies of the sale contract, receipt, and any written communications. These act as legal proof if a dispute arises after the horse is sold.

Store screenshots of messages, email chains, or texts with the buyer. Having records protects you from false claims and shows you acted responsibly.

Red Flags to Watch Out for When Selling

Buyers Who Refuse Paperwork

If a buyer avoids contracts or insists on a verbal deal, walk away. No-paperwork sales leave you exposed. Without written terms.

it’s easy for a buyer to come back with claims — real or false — and you’ve got no defence. Always insist on a signed contract and a proper bill of sale, no matter how friendly or trustworthy they seem.

Transport Issues or Stalling Payment

Don’t hand over your horse until full payment clears and transport is sorted. Some buyers delay payment, ask for credit, or want to move the horse before money lands in your account.

That’s risky. Agree who handles transport costs in advance and never release a horse without confirmed funds — cleared bank transfer, not “I’ll pay later” promises.

Conclusion

Selling a horse in the UK isn’t just about finding the right buyer — it’s about doing things legally, ethically, and clearly.

From having the right paperwork and contracts to being upfront about health and behaviour, each step matters. A well-documented sale protects both parties, builds trust, and ensures the horse’s welfare comes first.

By following these guidelines, you reduce the risk of disputes and help your horse move on to a new home safely and smoothly. Always prioritise honesty, transparency, and proper legal process — your reputation and the horse’s future depend on it.