What to Look for When Buying a Used Piano

Buying a used piano can be a great way to find a quality instrument at a more affordable price.

However, photographs and a quick test at the keyboard don't always tell you everything about the condition of a piano.

A piano can look beautiful from the outside while having worn action parts, tuning problems or other issues that may not be obvious to someone without technical experience.

If you're considering buying a second-hand piano, there are several important things to check before making a decision.

1. Check the Overall Condition

Start by looking at the general condition of the piano.

Check the cabinet, keys, pedals and visible hardware for signs of damage or excessive wear.

Cosmetic marks aren't necessarily a problem. An older piano can have some scratches or faded finishes and still be mechanically sound.

However, significant damage, water exposure or signs of poor storage deserve closer attention.

2. Test Every Key

Play every key across the keyboard.

Listen for notes that:

• Don't produce a sound

• Sound significantly different from neighbouring notes

• Produce unwanted noises

• Repeat or strike more than once

• Feel unusually heavy or light

• Don't return properly

A piano can have individual action problems even when most of the keyboard appears to work normally.

3. Check the Pedals

Test all of the pedals.

The sustain pedal should operate correctly and release the dampers properly.

Depending on the piano, the other pedals may have different functions, but they should also operate smoothly and correctly.

Pedal problems can sometimes be relatively simple adjustments, while other issues may require repairs.

4. Listen to the Tone

Don't only listen to whether the piano is in tune.

Pay attention to the overall tone.

Does it sound:

• Even across the keyboard?

• Extremely bright or harsh?

• Weak in some areas?

• Muffled?

• Different from one section to another?

Tone can be affected by the condition of the hammers, strings, soundboard and other components.

Some tonal problems can be improved with voicing, while others may indicate more significant wear.

5. Check the Tuning

Ask the seller when the piano was last tuned.

If possible, have the piano checked by a professional piano technician rather than relying only on whether it sounds acceptable to you.

A piano that is significantly below standard pitch may require a pitch raise before it can be properly tuned.

You can learn more about this in our article:

What Is a Piano Pitch Raise and When Does Your Piano Need One?

6. Look Inside the Piano

The inside of the piano can reveal information that isn't visible from the outside.

A professional inspection can identify issues involving:

• Hammers

• Strings

• Dampers

• Action components

• Tuning pins

• Bridges

• Soundboard

• Key bushings

• Pedal mechanism

Some problems may be minor and inexpensive to correct, while others can significantly affect the value of the instrument.

7. Check the Action

The action is one of the most important parts of a piano.

It contains hundreds of moving components that allow the movement of the keys to produce sound.

On an older piano, action components can become worn over time.

Signs of possible action problems include uneven touch, sluggish keys, excessive movement, poor repetition and inconsistent response.

A piano may still be playable while requiring significant action work.

8. Consider the Age of the Piano

Age should not be the only factor when deciding whether to buy a piano.

An older piano that has been regularly maintained can be an excellent instrument.

On the other hand, a relatively young piano that has been neglected may require substantial work.

Instead of asking only, "How old is it?", ask:

What condition is it in, and how has it been maintained?

9. Ask About Its Maintenance History

If possible, ask the seller:

• When was it last tuned?

• Has it been serviced regularly?

• Has it ever been repaired?

• Has the piano been moved recently?

• Has it been stored in a garage or other unsuitable environment?

• Are there any known problems?

Maintenance records or previous service invoices can be very useful.

10. Don't Rely Only on the Brand Name

Brand reputation is important, but the condition of the individual piano is often more important than the name on the fallboard.

Two pianos of the same model and age can be in completely different condition depending on how they have been used and maintained.

This is especially important when comparing several second-hand pianos.

Why a Professional Piano Inspection Is Worthwhile

A professional inspection can help you understand the condition of the piano before you commit to buying it.

A technician can identify problems that may not be obvious during a short test and give you a better understanding of what maintenance or repairs may be required.

This can be particularly valuable when buying an older, expensive or unusual piano.

An inspection may also help you negotiate with the seller if significant work is required.

Should You Buy a Piano That Needs Repairs?

Not necessarily a reason to walk away.

Some used pianos need relatively minor repairs or servicing and can still be very good purchases.

The important thing is knowing what work is required and what the likely cost will be before making your decision.

A piano that appears inexpensive may become expensive if it requires major restoration.

Conversely, a piano that needs a small amount of work may represent excellent value.

What About Buying a Piano Online?

Online marketplaces can be a great place to find used pianos, but buying without seeing the instrument in person carries some risk.

Photos usually cannot show:

• Action condition

• Tuning stability

• Internal wear

• Hammer condition

• Structural problems

• Pedal problems

• The true condition of the soundboard or bridges

If you're considering buying a piano from a private seller, arranging a professional inspection before purchasing can give you much greater confidence.

Used Piano Inspection in Perth

If you're looking at buying a second-hand piano in Perth, a professional inspection can help you make a more informed decision.

At Foad Piano Service, I inspect upright and grand pianos and assess their general mechanical and musical condition.

The inspection can help identify existing problems, recommend necessary work and give you a clearer understanding of the piano before you purchase it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth getting a used piano inspected?

Yes. A professional inspection can identify mechanical, tuning and structural issues that may not be obvious to a buyer.

What is the most important thing to check when buying a used piano?

The overall condition is more important than age alone. The action, soundboard, bridges, strings, tuning stability and general maintenance history should all be considered.

Should I buy a piano that hasn't been tuned for years?

It depends on the condition of the piano. A long period without tuning doesn't automatically mean the piano is unusable, but it may require a pitch raise, multiple tunings or additional servicing.

Is an old piano worth buying?

Some older pianos can be excellent instruments. The condition and quality of the individual piano should be assessed before making a decision.

How much does a piano inspection cost?

Inspection fees vary depending on the technician and the scope of the inspection. It is best to confirm the inspection cost before booking.

Book a Used Piano Inspection in Perth

If you're considering buying a second-hand piano, don't rely only on photographs or a short test.

A professional inspection can help you understand what you're actually buying and whether the piano is likely to be a good investment.

Contact Foad Piano Service to arrange a professional piano inspection in Perth.