Building your dream home is an exciting adventure—but it also comes with the challenge of where to live in the meantime. Whether your current property has already sold or you’re starting from scratch on a plot of land, you’ll need a temporary living solution. Two popular options in the UK are buying a static caravan or renting a home nearby.

So, which option makes more sense during a self-build project? Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you decide what’s best for your situation.

1. The Cost Factor

Buying a Static Caravan

Initial investment: Expect to pay anywhere from £5,000 to £50,000+ depending on the condition, size, and spec of the caravan.

Running costs: Lower than a traditional home—think gas bottles, electricity (often via hookup or solar), water (sometimes via tanks or site connections), and minimal council tax (or none if on private land).

Resale value: If kept in good condition, you may be able to recoup a decent chunk of your money by selling the caravan once your build is complete.

Renting a Home

Monthly rent: Ranges from £800 to £1,500+ depending on location and size.

Upfront costs: Deposit, referencing fees, and possibly furnishing if the property comes unfurnished.

Zero return: All rental payments are essentially gone once the lease ends—nothing to resell or reuse.

Winner for long-term cost efficiency: Static caravan, especially if your build will take longer than 12 months.

2. Flexibility and Location

Static Caravan

If your plot allows, you could live on-site during your build, which offers huge convenience—no commuting to check on progress or meet tradespeople.

Be aware of planning permission rules; in most cases, you can live on-site in a caravan while building, but check with your local council first.

Renting a Home

You may need to find a rental a few miles away from your plot, which means daily travel and being less hands-on.

On the plus side, it’s ready to go—no need to prep land or worry about utilities hookups.

Winner for convenience: Static caravan—if you can live on-site, it makes the entire process smoother.

3. Comfort and Lifestyle

Static Caravan

Modern statics are surprisingly well-equipped, with central heating, double glazing, and proper kitchens and bathrooms.

That said, space is tight—especially with kids or pets—and it can feel a bit more ‘basic’ during the colder months.

Renting a Home

Offers full-size living with more space, privacy, and comfort. Ideal if you value a sense of normalcy during what can be a stressful time.

Also better suited to families who need space to spread out and keep routines in place.

Winner for comfort: Renting a home, especially if you have a family or want more space.

4. After the Build

Static Caravan

You can resell it, keep it as a guest annexe, or even move it to a holiday site for personal use or rental income.

It becomes an asset rather than an expense.

Renting a Home

Once the lease is up, you move out—simple, but no further use or value.

Winner for long-term value: Static caravan, especially if you see it as a future investment.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

If your self-build timeline is 6 months or less and comfort is a top priority, renting might be the way to go. But if you’re in it for the long haul, want to live on-site, and like the idea of turning your temporary solution into a future asset, buying a static caravan could be the smart choice.

Quick Tips Before You Decide

Check planning rules with your local authority if you plan to live in a caravan on-site.

Explore pre-owned static caravans for better value—many come in great condition.

Budget for setup: If placing a static on your plot, you may need to consider groundwork, utility connections, and insurance.

View multiple rental properties to find one that fits your budget and lifestyle, and be ready to act fast—rental markets can be competitive in rural areas.

Whichever route you choose, the key is planning ahead. Temporary living is just one chapter in your self-build story—but making the right choice now can make the whole journey a lot smoother.  Give our team a call on 0800 2461206 to talk through the options and benefits of buying a static caravan.

Can I rent out my annexe?

In this blog we’ll answer the burning question on many householders’ lips “Can I rent out my annexe?” Read on to find out more.

Planning rules and regulations can be complex, and when it comes to annexes, there are important considerations that every homeowner should be aware of. One common misconception is the idea of renting out an annexe as a separate dwelling. Consequently, we explore the reasons why annexes cannot be rented out as separate dwellings and explore alternative uses for these.

Defining annexes and their purpose

An annexe is typically an additional self-contained living space located within the garden of the principal dwelling. This is also called the ‘curtilage’. Annexes are often used to accommodate family members, provide extra space, or serve as a home office. However, it is crucial to understand that an annexe is an extension of the main property and not a separate entity – it must be ancillary (a secondary use).

Change of use and planning units

In planning terms, renting out an annexe as a separate dwelling constitutes a ‘material change of use.’ This means that the annexe is no longer serving its original purpose as an ancillary extension of the main dwelling. Instead, it is being used as an independent living space, which triggers full planning considerations. Additionally, creating a separate dwelling in the form of an annexe results in the formation of a new planning unit. A planning unit is a distinct area of land that is considered separately for planning purposes.

When an annexe is used as a separate dwelling, there are potential concerns about parking and amenity space. Local planning policies often require a certain amount of parking spaces and outdoor space per dwelling to ensure a reasonable quality of life for residents. If an annexe is rented out independently, these requirements may not be met, leading to planning complications.

Using annexes for Airbnb

While renting out annexes as separate dwellings may pose challenges due to planning regulations, alternative methods exist to make the most of them. One option is using annexes for short-term rental through platforms like Airbnb. This approach usually does not result in a material change of use or the creation of a new planning unit.

However, it is important to note that even short-term rentals may be subject to local planning regulations, and homeowners should still check with their local planning authority to ensure compliance. Homeowners should approach Airbnb usage with the understanding that the primary function of the property remains residential.

Short-term Airbnb use should not alter the residential character of the land. The intention is to provide short-term accommodations rather than fundamentally altering the long-term nature of a residential neighbourhood. This way, annexes can contribute positively to the sharing economy without jeopardising the enduring residential character of the land.

If you are interested in finding out more about how are static caravans can be used as an annexe please call the team on 0800 2461206 or by emailing hello@ukcaravancentre.co.uk