Anti-money laundering checks for buyers and sellers
Since January 2020, the law has required auction houses to carry out identity checks on any buyer or seller in a transaction over €10,000. The rules help prevent money laundering, and they apply to every auction house.
To meet these obligations and keep buying and selling straightforward, we ask all clients to confirm their identity.
What we'll ask for
First-time buyers are asked for two forms of ID. For higher-value transactions, we may ask for two, in line with standard verification.
This usually means confirming your name, address and date of birth, and providing photo ID and proof of address. If you're buying or selling on behalf of a business, we may also need some company details.
Where two forms of ID are needed, please provide one from each list below.
Proof of identity (with photo)
Current signed passport
Current full UK or EU photocard driving licence
Valid ID card (for example HM Forces, police warrant, prison officer card, or a government or local authority card)
Firearm or shotgun certificate
Residence permit issued by the Home Office to EU nationals
Proof of address
Current full UK or EU photocard driving licence (if you haven't used it as photo ID)
Utility bill from the last three months (not a mobile phone bill)
Recent bank, building society, mortgage or credit card statement
HM Revenue & Customs tax notification
Recent council tax bill
We hold and process this information in line with data protection regulations, and keep it confidential. Our [Privacy Notice](#) explains how we use your personal information.