Category: mobile home

Using a static caravan as annexe accommodation in your garden can be a practical and cost-effective solution to create extra living space. It is becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners who need additional space for guests or family members, especially those who have additional needs such as elderly parents or disabilities, and those who are facing difficulties as first-time buyers.

It has been widely reported that the ratio of house prices to average earnings is so high that it has become prohibitive for those looking to enter the property market, and demand for rental properties has outstripped supply so heavily that in some areas there are over 20 applicants for each rental property.  The supply-demand imbalance has led to a rise in homeowners purchasing static caravans as an affordable and practical solution.

Here are some key points to consider:

PLANNING PERMISSION:
Before you proceed with placing a static caravan in your garden, you should check local regulations and planning permissions. In some areas, there may be restrictions on the use of caravans as permanent living spaces, and you may need to obtain specific permissions from the local authorities (for example if you are within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty AONB).  However, in most cases, planning permission is not required, as per s29 of the Caravan Sites and Control Development Act 1960 (which specifies the characteristics of a caravan) and Section 55(1) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (which specifies whether there is an element of ‘development’ or change of use of land and/or buildings).

An example of this occurred in February 2019, when a LDC (Lawful Development Certificate) was issued confirming that the siting of a mobile home within the grounds of a dwelling in Kent was lawful, provided it was occupied by the elderly parents of the occupiers of the house.

The council was opposed to the certificate being issued having regard to its size, the facilities it would contain, its connections to services and its ability to provide independent living accommodation. However, the inspector noted that it fell within the definition of a mobile home under the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960 and did not exceed the size limits prescribed under the Caravan Sites Act 1968. It would be sited close to the house and would not have a separate curtilage. The elderly relatives required assistance with their day-to-day living and they would share the main house for meals and family socialising. Consequently, it would not result in a material change of use.

PURPOSE:
Determine the purpose of the static caravan. Will it be used as a guest house, an independent living space for a family member, a home office, or something else? Understanding its intended use will help you plan the layout and amenities accordingly.

SIZE AND LAYOUT:
Consider the size and layout of the static caravan. Depending on the number of people who will be using it and its intended purpose, you may need a larger caravan with multiple rooms or a more compact one if it’s just for a single individual.

UTILITIES
Check whether your garden can accommodate the necessary utilities for the static caravan, such as water, electricity, and sewage connections. You may need to consult with local service providers to ensure proper connections.

FOUNDATIONS AND STABILITY:
A solid and level foundation is essential for the stability and longevity of the static caravan. It is recommended to construct a concrete base to ensure the caravan remains safe and secure.

AMENITIES AND COMFORT:
Determine what amenities you want to include in the static caravan. This could range from necessities like a bathroom and kitchenette to more luxurious features like heating and air conditioning.

SAFETY AND REGULATIONS:
Ensure that the static caravan meets safety and building regulations. It should have proper fire safety measures, ventilation, and comply with other relevant building codes.

ACCESS AND PRIVACY:
Consider the access to the static caravan, and you may want to plan for some privacy measures like hedges or fences, depending on your preferences and any local regulations.

INSURANCE:
Check with your insurance provider to understand how the presence of a static caravan in your garden may affect your home insurance policy. You might need additional coverage for the annexe accommodation.

MAINTENANCE:
Like any structure, a static caravan requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. Make sure you are prepared for this upkeep.

It is worth noting that should your needs change at any time, there is always buoyant demand for pre-owned caravans, and we are able to assist in these situations.

Remember that using a static caravan as annexe accommodation is a significant decision, and should be approached thoughtfully and responsibly. Here at The UK Caravan Centre we can provide valuable guidance throughout the process, and help you to find the right mobile home for your needs and budget.

Please get in touch by calling 0800 246 1206 or fill in your details below:

Static caravans, also known as mobile homes, holiday homes, park homes, or lodges, are constructed in a factory using a combination of materials that provide strength, insulation, and durability, before then being transported and installed at the customer’s desired location. The prefabrication process and exact materials used (which may vary depending on the manufacturer and specific model) make them a much more affordable choice than a traditional brick-and-mortar home in many instances. Here are some common materials used in the construction of static caravans:

Steel chassis: The base of a static caravan is usually a steel chassis, which provides a sturdy foundation and structural support. Many manufacturers also offer the options of a galvanised or pre-galvanised chassis, although in most cases & locations this would not be a necessity.

Timber frame: The main structure of the caravan is often made of timber, such as treated softwood or lightweight engineered timber. The frame provides the framework for the walls, floors, and roof.

Wall panels: The walls of static caravans are typically constructed using a combination of materials. The exterior side may consist of materials like weatherboard cladding, vinyl siding, or aluminium panels. Some manufacturers also offer optional upgrades to cladding such as CanExel which is a popular low-maintenance engineered wood cladding (made of wood fibres, resins & wax) with both aesthetic appeal and durability, and comes in a selection of colours to suit your surroundings and style.

On the inside, the walls may have plasterboard or other wallboard materials for finishing. For a smooth finish, the narrow vertical gaps between the wall-boards are usually fitted with a trim known as a ‘knock-in’.

Insulation: To provide thermal insulation and improve energy efficiency, static caravans often have insulation materials installed within the walls, floors, and roof. Common insulation materials include expanded polystyrene (EPS), mineral wool, or rigid foam insulation.

Roofing: The roof of a static caravan may be constructed using materials like metal, asphalt shingles, or fibreglass. It is designed to protect the interior from weather elements. Whilst the roof may look like it is constructed of individual ‘tiles’, this is not usually the case and is typically large sheets fabricated into a tiled-look finish.

Windows and doors: The windows and exterior doors of static caravans are typically made of uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) frames, which offer good insulation and durability. They are often double-glazed to enhance energy efficiency.  The interior doors are now typically the very same type of timber doors that one would find in a regular bricks-and-mortar house.

Interior finishes: The interior of a static caravan may have various finishes, including wooden or laminate flooring, gypsum plasterboard walls, and ceiling panels. The specific materials used for these finishes can vary depending on the manufacturer and the desired aesthetic.

Furniture & soft furnishings: Most caravans now come fully furnished, including lounge and dining furniture (some may be fixed seating, whilst others may be free-standing), beds and fitted wardrobes, fully fitted kitchens (usually including appliances such as domestic twin-cavity ovens and hobs, and sometimes with additional options such as dishwashers, washer-dryers, integrated fridge-freezers, integrated microwaves etc.).  Depending on the manufacturer there may be options to choose the bespoke finishes to suit your taste.

It’s worth noting that the materials used in static caravan construction may evolve over time as new technologies and advancements are introduced.

Our team at The UK Caravan Centre can guide you through the varying options to help you choose the caravan that best suits your needs and budget.  Please give us a call on 0800 246 1206 or fill in your details below: