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Sale by Non-Owners
Normally, only the owner can sell goods. But sometimes, non-owners sell goods. The
general rule is:
Nemo dat quod non habet No one can give what they dont have.
So, a buyer from a non-owner usually gets no ownership. But there are exceptions.
Exceptions: When Sale by Non-Owners Transfers Ownership
1. Sale by Mercantile Agent
o If an agent sells goods in the ordinary course of business, the buyer gets
ownership, even if the agent had no authority.
o Example: A car dealer sells a car without owners permission, but buyer gets
ownership if acting in good faith.
2. Sale by Estoppel
o If the true owners conduct makes it appear that the seller has authority, the
buyer gets ownership.
o Example: Owner stands by silently while another sells his goods.
3. Sale by Joint Owner
o If one joint owner sells goods with consent, buyer gets ownership.
4. Sale by Person in Possession under Voidable Contract
o If goods are obtained under a voidable contract (like fraud) but contract not
yet rescinded, buyer in good faith gets ownership.
5. Sale by Person in Possession after Sale
o If seller remains in possession after sale and sells again to another buyer in
good faith, second buyer gets ownership.
6. Sale by Buyer in Possession
o If buyer gets possession before ownership passes and sells to another in good
faith, second buyer gets ownership.
Diagram: Transfer of Ownership
Transfer of Ownership
Specific Goods (Deliverable State Immediate transfer)
Specific Goods (Not Deliverable After work done)
Unascertained Goods After ascertainment
Sale on Approval After acceptance
Sale by Non-Owners Exceptions apply
Everyday Analogy
Think of ownership like passing the keys of a house:
If the house is ready, keys pass immediately.
If repairs are pending, keys pass after completion.