Can I give away washer and dryer?

[DamaskRosie]

I need to dispose of a washing machine and tumble dryer. Both are working well (as far as I know).

Is there any reason I can't offer these for free on Nextdoor? I have vague worries about them being electrical- I think charity shops aren't allowed to sell electrical stuff. Would I be liable if I gave them away and they blew up?

I don't think so. I've given away (and sold!) 2nd hand white goods before. They're always on Marketplace x

No you wouldn’t, or at least it’s v v unlikely. You’re a private citizen not a commercial supplier so you don’t come under H&S, supply of goods and trading law. Charity shops do. The worst that could happen legally is if they went wrong, someone was injured or there was a fire, and they sued you for negligence. That isn’t likely to succeed if you hand it to them in reasonable condition, i.e. plug tops not broken, no exposed wires, no burning smell or bad noise when you switch it on.

If you have the instructions/ manual/ safety blurb that came with them, to pass on to the new owners, that’s ideal because all the safety warnings are in there like “if this happens, switch off the machine at the plug and call a service engineer”. Then you’ve given them the info they need to use the appliances safely. If you don’t have the manufacturer info you can often find a pdf on the web by searching.

Having said that, if they’re old and in bad condition I would dispose of them not give them away.
(I’m a H&S professional).

Where do you live!

Some charities have volunteers qualified to test electrical donations. Ring round a few & ask.
Lots if charities would be very glad of white goods. Just give some a call. They’ll often collect.

I have given away 3 washers on Freegle on separate occasions. One in need of repair and two in working order.

Ive given electricals away small and large appliances. On marketplace. Even a gas cooker

Some charities will collect them, Emmaus has a lot of branches. If there isn't one near you have a search.