eBay has launched Condition Guarantee, an optional £5 service that lets buyers have eligible used phones and iPads inspected by eBay before they’re delivered.

The service went live today and is added by the buyer at checkout.

When a buyer opts in, the seller sends the device to an eBay facility rather than direct to the buyer, using eBay’s packaging and shipping instructions.

eBay then runs diagnostics and a physical inspection against the listing. Depending on the device, this covers visible condition, functionality, battery health, model and storage details, and any network or account locks.

Devices that pass are packaged up and sent on to the buyer with tracking. If a device fails, the buyer is refunded the item and the £5 fee, and it’s returned to the seller unless its condition means it can’t be shipped.

eBay is asking sellers to use photos of the actual item, include battery condition and network status, and disclose any repairs or replacement parts. Included accessories should also be listed.

Before sending a device in, sellers need to factory-reset it, sign out of any accounts and activation-lock services, and take out SIM and memory cards.

Repaired or refurbished phones can still pass as long as they clear every functionality test. eBay says the service is not a warranty, repair service, insurance policy, refurbishment certification or certification of original parts.

Estimated delivery dates allow time for the inspection. Change-of-mind returns policies are unaffected, although eBay may inspect returned items to make sure it’s the same device, in the condition expected.

The launch puts eBay in direct competition with Vinted, which already offers UK buyers Electronics Verification for £5 per item on eligible phones, tablets and consoles.