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Static caravan and lodge FAQs

Holiday Park Owner Questions Answered

Straight answers to common questions about holiday caravan ownership, fees, resale, agreements and potential claims.

Is a static caravan a property investment?

A holiday caravan or lodge is normally a depreciating leisure asset. You usually own the unit but not the pitch. Statements that compared it with bricks-and-mortar property, guaranteed future value or minimised depreciation may need to be considered against the documents and surrounding facts.

Does a large drop in value prove mis-selling?

No. Depreciation is expected. A potential concern usually depends on what was represented or omitted before purchase, whether that information was material and what the agreement says about value, licence duration and resale.

Can a park increase pitch fees every year?

Many agreements allow an annual review. The relevant questions are how the clause is written, whether it is fair and transparent, how the increase was calculated and what you were told when buying. Holiday caravans do not necessarily receive the statutory protections that apply to residential park homes.

Can I sell my caravan privately?

The agreement may allow an on-pitch private sale subject to first refusal, buyer approval and transfer commission, or an off-park sale after removal. The exact procedure and charges should be checked before advertising or accepting an offer.

What if the park’s buy-back offer is much lower than I paid?

A low offer can reflect depreciation and the difference between a sited retail package and an off-site trade value. It may still be important evidence if earlier assurances about buy-back or resale influenced the purchase.

Can rental income shortfalls support a complaint?

Possibly, if a clear income or affordability statement was misleading and materially influenced the decision. Compare gross projections with actual net income after commission, cleaning, maintenance, utilities and owner-use restrictions.

What is the “20-year rule”?

There is no single universal 20-year entitlement for every holiday caravan. The permitted period normally comes from the specific licence and park rules. What the sales team said about lifespan can also be relevant.

Can the park make me upgrade?

An operator may rely on expiry, age or condition provisions and may offer part exchange. Whether it can require an upgrade or removal depends on the agreement and circumstances. Ask for the contractual basis and deadline in writing.

Does signing the agreement prevent a claim?

Not automatically. Signed documents are important, but consumer law can also consider fairness, transparency and pre-contract statements. Equally, a verbal recollection will need credible detail and supporting evidence where possible.

Can former owners ask for an assessment?

Yes. Selling, surrendering or handing back the unit does not automatically answer questions about the original sale or later conduct. Time limits may apply, so prompt advice is sensible.

Is HPOH connected with any park operator?

No. HPOH is independent. Operator names are used only so owners can identify the park business involved.

What does the free assessment do?

It captures the key facts for an initial review. It does not guarantee a claim, create a solicitor–client relationship or commit you to a paid service. Any later professional engagement requires separate terms.