How to Complain to eBay UK
Step by step: where to complain, what to say, and where to go if eBay UK does not put it right.
Consumer Protection UK is independent and is not connected to eBay UK. This guide uses information published by eBay UK and by the schemes named below. All product names, logos and brands are property of their respective owners.
- Where to complain
- eBay UK official complaints page (opens in a new tab)
eBay says a buyer with an unresolved order problem can ask it to step in by opening a case from the Purchases section of their account, after the seller has had a chance to respond. It says it normally comes back with an answer within 48 hours, and that a decision can be appealed with new information. - If it is not resolved
- We could not confirm a general ombudsman or ADR scheme for eBay UK from its own pages. If it cannot settle your complaint, ask it in writing which approved ADR provider it uses and whether it will take part, and contact the Citizens Advice consumer service.
- When you can escalate
- If the seller has not responded within 3 business days or has not resolved the issue; appeals within 30 calendar days of the case closing
- Checked
- 4 October 2026 (company pages and scheme websites). Rules and pages change, so check the official page before you rely on this.
More from eBay UK
Good to know: eBay's returns page says its Money Back Guarantee covers items that do not arrive, are faulty or damaged, or do not match the listing. The pages read did not name an external ombudsman or ADR scheme.
What to Do, Step by Step
- Gather your evidence. Order or account number, dates, receipts, screenshots, emails and what was said on calls.
- Complain in writing using the route above, and ask for a complaint reference. Say what went wrong, what you want, and by when (14 days is reasonable). Our free letter templates can write it for you.
- Keep a record. Note dates, names and reference numbers of every contact. Use email or a form where you can, so you have proof.
- Ask for a final response if you are not getting anywhere, then follow the escalation route above.
- Use other routes if they apply. If the company does not fix it, take it to the free ombudsman or ADR scheme named above. Your bank or card provider may help if you paid by card (Section 75 or chargeback). The Citizens Advice consumer service gives free advice and can pass a report to Trading Standards.
Useful to Know
- Complain to the retailer that sold you the goods, not the manufacturer. Your contract is with the seller.
- Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 you have 30 days to reject faulty goods for a refund, and up to 6 months in which a fault is presumed to have been there from the start.
- If you paid by credit card, think about a Section 75 claim. For debit cards, a chargeback.
Want help? If you would like one of our team to look at your complaint, our initial case review is free. Start your case. We cannot guarantee any outcome and do not give legal advice.