Effective Date: 12 August 2025
At Art is Lit, we want both buyers and artists to feel confident when using our marketplace. To help protect both parties, we operate a Buyer Inspection Period before funds are released to the seller.
1. Buyer Inspection Period
Once an order has been marked as delivered by the shipping carrier, the buyer will have 48 hours (2 days) to inspect the item and confirm that it matches the description and photographs provided in the listing.
During this inspection period:
- Payment is securely held by the marketplace.
- Funds are not released to the seller.
- The buyer may either accept the item or report an issue.
2. Accepting the Order
If the buyer is satisfied with the purchase, they may confirm that everything is satisfactory through their Art is Lit account.
Once confirmed:
- The transaction is completed.
- Marketplace commission is deducted.
- The remaining funds are released to the seller.
3. Automatic Completion
If the buyer does not report an issue within 48 hours of confirmed delivery:
- The transaction will automatically be considered accepted.
- Funds will be released to the seller.
- The order will be marked as completed.
4. Reporting an Issue
If the buyer believes the item:
- Arrived damaged,
- Is significantly different from the listing description,
- Is missing components,
- Is not the item purchased,
the buyer must report the issue within the 48-hour inspection period.
To submit a claim, the buyer must provide:
- A clear explanation of the issue.
- Photographic evidence.
- Any supporting information requested by Art is Lit.
Failure to report an issue within the inspection period may result in the transaction being completed automatically.
5. Review Process
Once an issue has been reported:
- Funds will remain on hold.
- Art is Lit may review the information provided.
- The buyer and seller will be encouraged to communicate and attempt to resolve the issue.
Art is Lit reserves the right to request additional evidence from either party before making a decision.
6. Returns
Where a return is approved:
- The buyer must return the item within 3 days of receiving return instructions.
- Items must be returned in the same condition in which they were received.
- Appropriate packaging should be used to prevent damage during transit.
Tracking information may be required.
7. Return Shipping Costs
Unless otherwise agreed by the seller:
- The buyer is responsible for return shipping costs.
- Sellers may choose to cover return postage at their discretion.
If the item is found to be significantly not as described, damaged before delivery, or incorrectly supplied, Art is Lit may determine that the seller is responsible for return shipping costs.
8. Refunds
Once the returned item has been received and inspected:
- A full refund may be issued to the buyer.
- Refunds will generally include the original purchase price.
- Shipping fees may be refunded where required by law or where Art is Lit determines the seller was at fault.
Refunds will be processed using the original payment method whenever possible.
9. Change of Mind
Because many items sold on Art is Lit are handmade, original, bespoke, or one-of-a-kind artworks, returns will not normally be accepted for:
- Change of mind.
- Personal preference.
- Incorrect size where measurements were clearly stated.
- A buyer deciding they no longer want the item.
Buyers are encouraged to review all photographs, descriptions, dimensions, and artist information carefully before purchasing.
10. Custom and Commissioned Artwork
Custom-made, personalised, or commissioned artwork is generally non-refundable unless:
- The item arrives damaged.
- The item differs significantly from the agreed specification.
- The artist is unable to fulfil the commission.
11. Marketplace Role
Art is Lit acts as a marketplace connecting independent artists and buyers.
While we may assist in resolving disputes, we reserve the right to make final decisions regarding claims, refunds, and returns where necessary to ensure fairness and protect the integrity of the marketplace.
12. Contact Us
For any questions regarding returns or refunds, please contact:
Art is Lit
London, United Kingdom
Email: ail.admin@artislit.com
Our Commitment
Art is Lit is committed to creating a trusted marketplace where artists can share their work with confidence and buyers can discover unique creations knowing they are protected throughout their purchase journey.