Commentary on Judgment No. 19061 of 2024: The 'Seen and Liked' Clause in Sales

Judgment No. 19061 of 2024 by the Court of Cassation offers important insights into the dynamics of sales, particularly regarding the "seen and liked" clause. This ruling, authored by Dr. A. Carrato, clarified how such a clause can exclude warranty for defects in the sold item, provided that these are recognizable by the buyer with normal diligence.

The Legal Context of the Judgment

The central issue concerns the seller's liability towards the buyer in relation to defects that may arise in the sold goods. The Court specified that the "seen and liked" clause serves to certify that the buyer had the opportunity to examine the item before purchase. If the seller has adequately informed the buyer and if the defects are evident, the seller is not liable.

In the specific case, the material in question was second-choice marble, with visible defects to the naked eye. The Court reiterated that, under such circumstances, the seller cannot be held responsible for the presence of defects, unless it is proven that they were concealed in bad faith.

The Maxim of the Judgment

Sale - Seller's obligations - "Seen and liked" clause - Exclusion of warranty for defects in the sold item - Limits - Basis - Case. In terms of sales, the contractual clause "seen and liked," which aims to consensually ascertain the buyer's inspection of the sold item, exempts the seller from warranty for defects of the latter with reference to those recognizable with normal diligence and not concealed in bad faith. (In this case, the Supreme Court annulled the decision that had deemed the seller liable although the delivered marble presented defects perceptible to the naked eye, as it concerned supplies of second-choice marble pieces and different batches already cut, and as such, characterized by not entirely homogeneous colors and veining).

Practical Implications and Conclusions

This ruling has several practical implications for parties involved in sales contracts. It is essential that sellers are transparent regarding the condition of the goods and that buyers exercise due diligence in examining the items. In particular, the importance of:

  • Thoroughly informing oneself about the purchased products.
  • Requesting documentation and details about any potential defects.
  • Using clear and well-defined contractual clauses.

In conclusion, judgment No. 19061 of 2024 serves as a useful guide for all those involved in sales, emphasizing that proper information and careful assessment are essential to avoid future disputes.

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