Imagine waking up on a chilly morning in your static caravan. What’s the first thing you see when you open the bedroom curtains?

Suppose it’s a clear view of the outside world, congratulations. But if the window is so steamed up you could sign your name on it, beware!

Condensation can mean big trouble in static caravans. So, in this article, we’ll explore the potential problems and discuss control methods. But first, let’s understand what we’re dealing with.

What causes condensation?

Condensation happens when warm, moist air meets a cold surface. That’s why it tends to be worse in winter, when there’s a bigger difference between the snugly heated interior of your holiday home and the chilliness outside.

There’s always moisture in the air, and as that moisture cools, it transforms from vapour (invisible gas) to liquid droplets. Your fogged-up window is the result.

Every living creature produces water vapour. But how much? Well, estimates show that a family of four in a three-bedroom house produces 112 pints of water per week. So, the answer is a lot.

Some of that moisture is produced by everyday activities, such as cooking, washing up, showering, and putting the kettle on. But a lot of humidity typically results from breathing.

Even when all that H2O is spread around a big house, condensation can be noticeable. Pack it into the confined space of a static caravan, and it’s unavoidable.

Where to look for condensation

Glass surfaces are where condensation is most visible, but it will affect more than your windows and mirrors. Moisture can settle anywhere that’s colder than the air temperature, so outside walls and the roof of your caravan are spots you need to check regularly. Kitchens and bathrooms are also prone to condensation for obvious reasons.

What happens if condensation is left untreated?

Mould, in a word. Mildew if you need two. Condensation is most likely to be left untreated in places where it’s less visible or harder to reach. Ceilings, corners, window surrounds, and the insides of cupboards can become permanently damp. The result is creeping black mould.

This is not only ugly; it’s also unhealthy, producing airborne spores that can cause skin problems, sinus complaints, and even bronchitis. Mould inside your static caravan is particularly serious for people with asthma and other breathing problems.

If condensation is allowed to build up over days and weeks, it can also cause damp patches or even small pools of water. These will eventually cause stains and rot, so preventing recurrence is essential.

How to stop condensation in a static caravan

As we’ve seen, the conditions that cause condensation are as inevitable as breathing. But while it can’t be avoided, it can be prevented from doing harm. Here are our top tips for controlling static caravan condensation.

Ventilation, ventilation, ventilation – Encouraging airflow is the single most effective thing you can do control condensation. Open some windows and/or roof vents as soon as you arrive after a period away, and whenever possible while in residence. This practice allows the moisture to escape rather than build up on interior surfaces. It will also enable damp places to dry out more quickly.  Fitting restrictors to windows is a simple way of keeping your caravan secure and well-ventilated.

Use fans and vents – Most modern static caravans feature cooker hoods and bathroom extractor fans. Always switch them on when cooking or showering, and leave them on for a while afterwards. The extra moisture takes longer to remove than most people expect.

Wipe down (and up) – Recognise that your static caravan is a small space and naturally prone to condensation. Get into the regular habit of using kitchen roll, a clean cloth, or a squeegee to remove moisture wherever it has settled — before it has the chance to become a permanent mould problem.

More condensation control ideas

Avoid drying clothes inside, as this will increase the moisture content of the air.

If you have a tumble dryer, make sure it vents to the outside.

Put lids on pans when cooking (this saves fuel as well as reducing steam).

Control your heating so it warms up gently, rather than all at once.

Invest in a dehumidifier (or several).

Place pots of salt around to soak up moisture from the air (cat litter can also work).

Improve the insulation of your caravan, and fit modern double-glazing if it’s an older model.

Will having a residential specification (BS3632) help combat condensation?

In word, yes. The BS3632 standard ensures all homes are suitable for year-round use. That means you can expect superior insulation, which helps to regulate the inside temperature and improve ventilation.

If, on the other hand, you buy a holiday home that is built to European standards (EN1647), you could find that it produces slightly more condensation, due to the fact it’s only suitable for temporary or seasonal holiday use.

Want to know more about static caravans?

Modern static caravans are cosy, comfortable places with efficient central heating, superb insulation, and high-performance double glazing. As such, if you follow the above tips and tricks, you’ll keep your home free from damp or mould.  Here at The UK Caravan Centre we have a great range of homes to suit your requirements, call our team on 08002461206 and let us help you find the right home.

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Here at The UK Caravan Centre, we get a lot of calls to our aftersales team asking about L2 codes on their boiler.  This blog runs through the most common reasons a code can appear and what you can try ourselves to resolve it.  However, if you are unsure please call our aftersales who can refer the issue back to your manufacture.

1. Replacing gas cylinders

It is not uncommon for a boiler to stop working after replacing a gas cylinder due to a lack of gas if the reserve cylinder on an automatic change over system has shut off or a single cylinder installation has emptied. Ignite all four burner rings on the cooker in the kitchen, open a hot water tap and leave the rings on for a few minutes. With the hob rings and the hot water tap running, reset the boiler (please refer to the reset procedure on the final page of this article). This may take several attempts before the boiler re-sets. Please do not re-set the boiler more than 5 times in a 15 minute period as this will lock your boiler out and you will need to restart the process from the beginning.

The boiler should then restart and ignite. Through the process of igniting the burner rings, this should remove the air within the gas pipe and the boiler can return to working normally.

2. Gas stenching agent

LPG which is supplied to a home produces a recognisable smell if it leaks. LPG in its natural form does not smell. However to ensure a gas leak can be detected a ‘stenching agent’ is added. The stenching agent can oxidise (rust) inside. When the bottle is nearly empty the oxidised substance is pushed out and can block the pathway to the boiler causing it to lock out. This occurs more frequently when a system uses a single bottle at a time. To solve this problem, the gas pipes and regulator will need to be cleared before adding a new bottle and the boiler will need resetting.

The long term solution is to use an automatic ‘changeover valve’. This is a mechanism which allows two gas bottles to be joined together. When the first one is running low, the valve automatically changes and connects to the second bottle. The advantage to this is the changeover occurring before the first bottle is ‘nearly empty’ which is when the oxidised substance (if any) is pushed into the gas pipes and regulator. This then gives you an uninterrupted gas supply.

3. Blocked condensate trap

Both the GB24 and GB30 are condensing boilers. In common with all condensing boilers, whilst the boiler is in use a condensate liquid is produced that leaves the boiler via a syphonic condensate trap (as can be seen in the right hand picture below) and flows into the waste water drain under the holiday home. In certain circumstances the pathway leading to the condensate trap can become blocked as well as the condensate trap itself. An indication of this occurring is when a gurgling noise is produced from the boiler and the condensate trap becomes discoloured and black.

This extinguishes the burner in the boiler and displays a fault code of L2. If your condensate trap looks like the picture below to the left, not like the clean one to the right and / or is making a gurgling noise then there is a strong possibility that this is your problem.

Dirty / blocked condensate trap	Clean condensate trap

Causes of blockage and the process of combustion

Blockages occur because debris that the boiler breaths in via the flue and the condensate fluid by-product becomes stuck within the pathway leading to the condensate trap. This in turn also blocks the waste pipe and trap. Therefore, the boiler cannot remove the condensate liquid and fails to operate which shows fault code L2. The image to the right shows an example of liquid building up from the trap back into the boiler. This may occur more frequently to boilers that are exposed to slightly harsher environments such as salt, sand, dust and leaves from trees.

Blocked condensate – What to do next?

This problem is not covered under our warranty as we are unable to control the cleanliness of air entering the boiler and the volume of condensate by-product being produced. Our manual advises that the boiler should be serviced at least annually. The frequency of servicing will depend upon the installation condition and usage. During a service the engineer, amongst other things, will remove the burner and clean the whole heat exchanger and condensate path with hot water. This returns the system to a clean state. This is the best guard against a blocked condensate system. It is important to use a Gas Safe Engineer to carry out the service.

Reset/Re-start procedure

To reset boiler, turn the mode control knob (far left-hand side on the boiler) to the reset position and immediately turn knob back to required setting. The boiler will repeat the ignition sequence if a heat demand is present. For SIII & IV boilers, press the restart button on the front of the boiler. If the boiler still fails to light consult a Gas Safe Registered Engineer.

There’s a handful of reasons why you may want to purchase one of our homes and site it on your own land:

You may want to put a home in a loved one’s garden to be close to them or you may want to put a home in your own garden to allow guests to have the most comfortable, luxurious stay as possible when visiting you.

Allow for a live-in carer to reside on the property but maintain your independence and privacy.

Putting a home on your own land also gives you the freedom to choose the style and finish of the exterior.

What do you need to consider when preparing your site for your own land?

Access

Where can I put my home? – an annexe must be within the curtilage (garden) of a main property.  It is classed as an ancillary dwelling, in simple terms it means it is connected to the main dwelling, sharing its services, address and access

Therefore, the most important factor when thinking of putting a home on your own land is site access. A lorry with your home needs to be able to get as close to the location as possible and then an all-wheel-drive vehicle moves it into its final position. Other vehicles will need to get to the site, such as the concrete lorry to pour the base, excavators, for service trenches etc.

Concrete base

Your home needs to sit on a concrete base and we would always recommend that the base is poured and fully cured before the home arrives. Concrete takes a while to fully harden, we’d always recommend that your base has at least 3-4 weeks minimum curing time before the home is sited. We can provide indicative typical base details – subject to ground conditions.  Our team will be able to guide you through the process in further detail.

Utilities and services need to be ready

By the time your home is ready to come to the site, it’s important that all services are installed and awaiting connection to your home. This can take some time to prepare, especially if you are having new services installed by the relevant utility companies, therefore you need to be sure you have considered the timings of each stage.  Utilites that you need to consider are water, electricity, waste water, internet and gas.  However,  most of our homes are built to run on LPG bottles.

What other costs do you need to think about?

Financially, there are a few other things you’ll have to consider such as all of the connections will have to be completed by registered professionals including the electric, water, gas and waste. As established above, your home needs to sit on a concrete base and we would always recommend getting professional third-party advice for the build-up of your home’s base, depending on the ground conditions and the weight of your home. You’ll also be responsible for the cost of the exterior finishing of the property such as the skirting around the bottom of the home, landscaping, steps/decking, etc.

What do I pay and when?

We require a 20% deposit for either your home that is in stock or to secure you build slot.  The balance is due 2 weeks before delivery of your home.

Do you offer finance?

No, we don’t. We can however introduce you to a financial partner, but the advice provided would be their own.

Can I mortgage my annexe?

No, as it’s ancillary to the main hone, and not a stand alone dwelling.

Insurance

Most people contact their current home insurer and add the annexe to their existing policy.  However, it can be insured separately, and we have a preferred insurance partner that we can introduce you to who can assist you with this if for any reason your existing provider cannot.

Do you need planning permission?

Although our homes are able to be moved, there are still planning laws to consider. Each local authority will have its requirements as well as the need to follow the government’s national planning policy framework. If you need help or advice with discussing planning you can usually apply for pre-application advice from the local authority.

If you’re interested in purchasing a gorgeous home for your own land, whatever the reason, we are here to fulfil all your desires! Have a chat with our friendly sales team to learn more.

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Reaching the decision that you, or a loved one, need care is challenging. As well as the emotional impact, there’s also practical things to think about including costs, requirements and the type of care that’s best.

When it comes to deciding between home care and residential care, you may be unsure which option is best for you or even what each really offers. To help you decide whether care at home is the right option for you, we have compiled a list of the top 10 advantages.

1. Home care lets you remain in familiar surroundings

Care at home allows you to continue to live where you are the most safe and comfortable, in your own home surrounded by friends and family.

This is something that’s important to most people, but may be particularly relevant for older people and those living with dementia. It is common to have lived in the same place for a long time, collecting memories and personal items which can be difficult to separate from. Care at home enables you to keep sleeping in your own bed, relaxing in your favourite lounge chair and soaking up the sun in your own garden.

Receiving care at home also makes it possible to stay close by to the people you love. For example, if only one person in an elderly couple needs care, choosing to receive care at home rather than in a residential setting avoids separation, which can cause anxiety and worry for everyone involved.

2. No need to uproot and sell your home

If you choose to move into a care home, it may be necessary to sell your home in order to cover the fees. Selling your home and all the complications that come with it is a stressful event at any stage of life, but when the need for care occurs suddenly, selling your home alongside trying to find care can be extremely challenging.

Choosing home care over residential care removes the worries of everything that selling your home involves, such as what to do with all your things, estate agent fees, and the emotional toll that comes with moving away from a space where you feel safe and secure.

3. Home care is flexible to suit your needs

When you arrange care at home, you will receive a personalised care plan fully tailored to your needs, preferences and lifestyle.

Home care can be arranged on a temporary basis, for example if you require reablement following a hospital stay or an injury, or it can be arranged for the longer-term. You will have the option of short visits all the way through to 24-hour live-in care if this is what you require.

How carers assist you will also be based around what you need.

For example, they can offer assistance with general activities such as:

• Housework
• Planning and preparing meals
• Getting in and out of bed each day
• Accompanying you for trips out
• Companionship at home

Carer workers can also support you with medical tasks including:

• Managing and taking medication
• Changing stoma bags
• Treating and caring for wounds
• Attending medical appointments

There are various types of home care available, such as personal care, dementia care and nursing care.

4. You only pay for the care you need

When you receive home care, the fees involved are only for the time that you are being cared for as opposed to in residential care where costs often also cover things like utility bills. For example, if a care worker visits you three times per week, and each visit is one hour, you will only pay for those three hours.

Do bear in mind that care providers offer different minimum care visits, some will offer an hour as minimum where others will offer 30 minutes. You should consider this when choosing your provider and weighing up the costs.

How much does home care cost?

As of 2024, the cost of home care in the UK is between £23 to £34 per hour, and live-in care fees start at around £900 to £1,400 a week but can go up to £2,000. It is important to note that fees vary depending on your needs as well as the provider you choose.

5. Retain independence and lifestyle

Although the need for care can inevitably impact some parts of your life, it shouldn’t be detrimental to your independence. Home care can be provided to fit around your lifestyle and schedule, empowering you to continue living life the way you choose.

The additional support offered through home care services might even make it possible to return to the things you love doing where your health or abilities have previously prevented you from doing so.

A good home care provider will empower you to live a fulfilled and active life, whatever that means to you.

6. Maintain relationships

As well as making it possible to keep your home comforts to hand, receiving care at home also means that you can continue to welcome visitors whenever you choose. Perhaps you are a part of a club or organisation that meets at certain times, or your family has regular Sunday dinners, with care at home you can continue to spend your time with others as much as you wish.

With home care, you’re able to maintain relationships with your family, friends and people in your community and continue to spend the same amount of time with them as you usually would.

7. Person-centred, one-to-one care

Home care services are highly personalised, and you will receive one-to-one care each time a care worker visits you.

This means that for the duration of their visit, the care worker will be fully focused on just you, allowing them more dedicated time to get to know you as a person, understand your needs and provide care and support to suit you.

This also makes it easier for you to become comfortable with receiving additional care. In a residential care setting, you’ll see a number of care professionals each day and for some this can be overwhelming to begin with. With care at home, you will usually have one or two care workers assigned to you, so there are less people to get to know and you can build on those relationships much more quickly whilst adjusting to your new routine.

8. Your family can be more involved

When you move into residential care, sometimes a suitable care home for your needs may be further away from your family and loved ones, which will be particularly difficult if they provide regular support and companionship.

Remaining at home allows your loved ones to continue to be involved in your care and play a larger part in your care plan, advocating for you if it’s ever necessary to do so.

9. End of life and palliative care in your own home

Being diagnosed with a life-limiting illness or nearing the end of your life does not mean that you have to move away to receive care.

Although the same services may not be available at home compared to a hospital or care home, receiving end of life care at home allows people to spend their last weeks, months, or even years in the comfort of their own homes. This can be reassuring for you as well as your family and friends.

Anyone approaching end of life is entitled to high-quality care, wherever they wish to be cared for.

10. Pets allowed

The tenth great advantage of receiving home care is keeping your pets close. Some care homes do not allow pets and it can be difficult to come to terms with leaving them.

Whilst it may seem unimportant to some, pets provide comfort and companionship and can have a hugely positive impact on wellbeing. For many people, pets are an extremely important part of their life and having them around can make a big difference, especially if they’ve lost loved ones.

The Benefits of a 10-Foot Wide Static Caravan for Challenging Land Access and Limited Space

When considering adding accommodation or extra living space to your plot of land, static caravans emerge as a flexible and cost-effective solution. For those dealing with narrow access routes or limited space, a 10-foot wide static caravan can be the ideal choice. These caravans not only offer comfort and practicality but also tackle many logistical challenges that come with installing larger structures.

At the UK Caravan Centre, we pride ourselves on providing a wide range of caravans at various price points, ensuring that there’s something to meet every budget and need. We also arrange transportation, making the entire process seamless and stress-free.

Here are some compelling benefits of choosing a 10-foot wide static caravan, especially when space and access are at a premium:

1. Effortless Transportation and Installation
   Transporting a static caravan can often feel daunting, particularly when navigating narrow roads or uneven terrain. The 10-foot width of these caravans makes it significantly easier to manoeuvre through tight access points, rural lanes, and around obstacles. The UK Caravan Centre is equipped to handle the logistics of transport for you. Our experienced, knowledgeable team works with specialized caravan transport services to ensure a smooth delivery and installation process, allowing you to enjoy your new space sooner.
2. Maximizing Space Efficiency
   Despite their narrower profile, 10-foot wide static caravans are designed to maximize interior space without compromising comfort. Innovative layouts provide open-plan living areas that feel spacious and airy. Features such as multi-purpose furniture—like fold-out beds and dining areas that double as storage—ensure you have everything you need without feeling cramped. These models often include well-designed bedrooms, bathrooms, and full kitchens, making them ideal for long-term living, guest accommodation, or holiday retreats.
3. Access Restrictions
   If you’re working with a smaller plot of land or facing access restrictions, a 10-foot wide static caravan is an excellent fit. Larger models demand more ground space and wider entryways, which can pose challenges in areas with land restrictions or irregular shapes. A narrower caravan can comfortably fit into tighter spots, allowing for more outdoor features like decking, gardens, or storage sheds. To ensure you’re maximizing the space on your land and that the home can be easily delivered, we encourage you to get in touch with the UK Caravan Centre to organize a site survey. Our team will help you assess the best approach for your specific situation.
4. Affordability
   Choosing a 10-foot wide static caravan can also be a budget-friendly option. Not only is the initial purchase price generally lower, but reduced transportation costs and simpler installation mean further savings. With a diverse range of caravans available at the UK Caravan Centre, you can find a model that perfectly suits your financial situation while still providing comfort and space.
5. Energy Efficiency and Low Maintenance
   Smaller living spaces are naturally more energy-efficient. A 10-foot wide caravan requires less energy to heat or cool, thanks to modern insulation and energy-efficient materials that help keep utility costs down. Maintenance is simpler as well—less space means fewer areas to clean or repair, making it a great choice for those seeking a low-maintenance holiday home or extra living space.
6. Versatility in Usage
   The compact nature of a 10-foot wide static caravan makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you need extra guest accommodation, a home office, or a cozy personal retreat, these caravans adapt to suit multiple purposes. Their smaller size allows them to fit seamlessly into various landscapes, from rural settings to urban plots. Plus, their ease of transportation means you can relocate them if your needs change, providing flexibility that larger alternatives simply can’t match.
7. Easier Compliance with Planning Regulations
   In many regions, planning regulations impose restrictions on the size and type of structures allowed on a plot of land. A 10-foot wide static caravan often meets the criteria for “temporary structures” or “non-permanent housing,” making it easier to gain approval. To learn more about navigating these regulations, be sure to check out our planning blog at the UK Caravan Centre. It’s a valuable resource that can guide you through the process and help you stay informed about what’s required for your project.

Conclusion
Before making a decision, it’s essential to conduct a site survey to determine if a 10-foot wide static caravan can fit on your property. This crucial step not only assesses the access to your property but also evaluates the surrounding roads to ensure that delivery via lorry is feasible. You might even discover that a larger caravan could fit comfortably on your site! At the UK Caravan Centre, we provide a wide selection of caravans at different price points, along with expert transportation arrangements to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Embrace the opportunity to enhance your property with a space that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle, all while enjoying the convenience and comfort of a static caravan!

Check Out Our Current Favourite 10-Foot Home :

• Willerby Ashurst – A perfect blend of style and functionality at an affordable price.

Feel free to reach out to us for more information or to schedule your site survey!

On average, a static caravan lasts for around thirty years +, however, there are a number of factors that can extend your caravan’s life. The overall quality of your static caravan will play a huge role in its lifespan, as well as how well it is looked after. If you’re wondering, what is the life expectancy of a static caravan? Then take a look at our blog and discover how to keep your static caravan looking its best for longer.

What is the lifespan of a static caravan?

The average lifespan of a static caravan all depends on how well you look after it. If you regularly clean and maintain your caravan, you can expect it to last for decades. Whether you’ve got your caravan stored on a holiday park or on your own land, regular TLC and maintenance will go a long way to improving its lifespan.

It’s worth noting that the average depreciation rate of a static is like that of a car. So if you’re buying a brand new caravan, as soon as you receive it a large percentage of its value is gone. No matter how well you look after it over the years, you can expect to sell for notably less than you paid for it brand new.

Used static caravans make a great investment as they tend to go down in value slower than a brand new one. So if you’re looking to upgrade, you can trade in your current used caravan for a newer, but still used, model and enjoy an excellent price.

Top tips to help extend the life expectancy of a static caravan

The real question when regarding the lifespan of your caravan should be, how long do static caravans last with regular maintenance? Caravan owners can extend their static home lifespan, so long as they perform the proper maintenance and upkeep. Here are a few things that can greatly improve your static caravan’s lifespan:

Galvanise the chassis

The chassis is one of the most important parts of your static caravan, as it supports everything above it. A fully galvanised chassis will reduce the threat of rust and corrosion. Static caravans that are sited privately or in holiday parks near the sea without a galvanised chassis are more likely to deteriorate quicker due to the salty wind and salty sea air. If you’re in a holiday park, check with the park owner whether the chassis is galvanised or not.

If you are by the sea, the extra protection a galvanised chassis gives can be absolutely vital to the lifespan of your static caravan and running maintenance costs.

Maintain the flooring, roof and gutters

Failure to maintain the flooring, roof and gutters of your caravan will result in numerous issues down the road. It’s important that you ensure they are each in good condition all year round.

Your static caravan floor will wear down over time, and the roof may develop cracks or leaks, particularly those with a skylight, as these are plastic and often affected by the sun’s UV and harsh weather. Skylights, windows and doors with rubber seals are more susceptible to these damages as they are more exposed to the outside elements. Ensure you regularly clean and maintain these areas to prevent costly damage.

Water can come in through broken seals and can ruin the inside of your static caravan, so always ensure that they are all watertight to stop water pooling into your caravan and causing irreversible water damage.

It’s also important that you keep your gutters clean, as a blocked gutter creates an ideal point for water to breach the caravan’s structure. This water will quickly cause damage to the timber construction of the caravan. By regularly cleaning them you can eliminate these problems from occurring in the future.

Winterise your static caravan

Buying a “Winterised” caravan will add to longevity as double glazed windows are far less prone to water condensing on the glass in cold weather. Water and water vapour left unchecked in a caravan is a serious issue. It can lead to excessive damp, mildew and a rotten structure. Outside of fire, water ingress is the fastest destroyer of a caravan and far more common than fire damage.

Discover how to keep your caravan safe during winter

If you’re using your caravan as a holiday home during the summer months, draining the water system while your caravan is not in use will keep the pipes from freezing and bursting. Also, make sure all of the pipes under the caravan are properly lagged.

Ventilation

Ventilation is key, not only for your caravan’s health but for your own too. If your caravan isn’t properly ventilated, it can become a hub for mould and mildew. This can ruin any soft furnishings and make the caravan smell damp, which can be dangerous to those with breathing issues.

Proper water maintenance

Keeping an eye on your caravan’s water maintenance is also highly important. Ensure that you regularly check for any issues with your water and plumbing, for example, leaking pipes. Water damage is one of the leading causes of deterioration in static caravans, so always ensure you keep your static caravan safe from any leaks.

For those that use their caravan as a holiday home, ensuring that you drain the water supply before you store your holiday home away for the season is vital, this is called ‘draining down’. If you leave the water in the system throughout the time it is not in use, it can become stagnant. Furthermore, if you leave water in the caravan’s system over the winter then you run the risk of it freezing inside the pipes.

Gas and appliances

When your caravan is not in use, make sure to turn off all gas bottles and appliances. Although this sounds like a simple thing to do, if you leave them on you risk the chance of a gas leak.

If you’re considering buying a caravan, there are two options – touring and static caravans.

In this article, we’ll break down the differences between the two and help you determine which one is the right fit for you.

From design and cost implications to usage and location, we’ll explore all the factors you need to consider in static caravan vs touring caravan.

At The UK Caravan Centre, we stock a wide range of new and used static caravans for sale. Choose from standard caravans and luxury lodges and find the perfect static caravan for your needs.

Definitions of touring and static caravans

When it comes to choosing between a static caravan and a touring caravan, it’s important to understand the definitions of each.

Static caravan

A static caravan is a mobile home that’s designed to be permanently stationed at a specific location, such as a holiday park or campsite. Unlike a touring caravan, which can be hitched to a vehicle and taken on the road, a static caravan provides a more permanent living space.

One of the main advantages of a static caravan is that it offers a sense of stability and continuity. You can decorate and personalise your static caravan to make it feel like a home away from home. Additionally, static caravans are more spacious than touring caravans.

However, it’s important to consider the cons as well. Static caravans require a long-term commitment to a specific location, and you may not have the flexibility to explore different places like you’d with a touring caravan. Overall, the choice between touring and static caravans depends on your preferences and lifestyle.

Touring caravan

With a touring caravan, you’ve got the freedom to travel and explore different places at your own pace. It’s all about flexibility and adventure. One of the pros of touring is that you can change your location whenever you want. If you’re tired of one place, simply tow the caravan and move on to the next. This allows you to experience new environments and discover hidden gems.

However, there are cons to touring as well. It can be tiring to constantly pack and unpack, especially if you’re travelling frequently. Additionally, touring caravans tend to be smaller and have limited storage space compared to static caravans.

Design & structure

When it comes to deciding between a static caravan and a touring caravan, design and structure play a crucial role.

You’ll want to consider the layout, size, and amenities that each type offers.

The design and structure of the caravan will determine its functionality and comfort, so choose wisely based on your preferences and needs.

Static caravans are equipped with more features

Static caravans are often larger than touring caravans offering more space and amenities. Unlike a touring caravan, a static caravan stays in one place, eliminating the hassle of towing and setting up camp. You can enjoy the comforts of home, with amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, and a cosy living area. There’s also the ability to add extras such as decking to really maximise your space.

Touring caravans are more flexible

If you enjoy the freedom of travelling and exploring new places, a touring caravan offers a convenient and comfortable way to do so. With a touring caravan, you have the flexibility to tow it to different destinations, allowing you to experience various holiday parks and campsites. However, this means the overall space is much smaller, with foldable components for space optimisation and compact living areas.

Cost implications

When it comes to cost implications, you’ll find that static caravans tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to touring caravans.

However, static caravans often come with additional amenities and larger living spaces, which can make them a more attractive option for longer stays. If you choose to go for a used static caravan, you can typically find a much more affordable model with extra amenities such as double glazing and central heating.

On the other hand, touring caravans offer the flexibility of being able to travel and explore different locations, but you may need to factor in the costs of fuel and campsite fees.

Usage

When it comes to choosing between a static caravan and a touring caravan, the usage is a crucial factor to consider. How you plan to use the caravan will determine which option is right for you.

Whether you prefer a fixed location or the freedom to travel, your usage needs will help guide your decision.

Static caravans make a permanent home away from home

If you’re looking for a more permanent space, a static caravan may be the right choice for you. Static caravans are designed to stay in one location and provide a comfortable and convenient living space.

Unlike touring caravans that are meant for travel, static caravans offer a more stable and settled experience. These caravans come in various sizes and layouts, allowing you to choose the one that suits your needs.

With static caravans, you can enjoy the luxury of having a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, bathroom and private bedrooms. Some static caravans even have additional features like decking, allowing you to create an outdoor space to relax and soak in the surroundings.

Touring caravans provide freedom to travel

With a touring caravan, you can travel to various destinations and have the freedom to explore different areas. It offers flexibility and convenience for your adventures on the road.

Here are some reasons why a touring caravan might be the right choice for you:

• Freedom to travel: With a touring caravan, you’ve got the freedom to go wherever you please across the UK. You can explore different regions and change your location whenever you want.
• Equipped with everything you need: Touring caravans come fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable journey. From cosy beds to small, fully-fitted kitchens, you’ll have all the amenities you need while on the move.

Location

When it comes to choosing between a static caravan and a touring caravan, one important factor to consider is location. Depending on where you plan to spend most of your time, you may find that a static caravan offers the convenience of a permanent spot in a specific location, while a touring caravan allows you to explore different destinations and change your scenery whenever you please.

The location you prefer will ultimately determine which type of caravan is right for you.

A static caravan provides you with a permanent location, offering comfort and convenience. Unlike touring caravans that require constant towing and set up at each location, a static caravan is stationary, allowing you to relax and enjoy your surroundings without the hassle.

If you’re looking for flexibility and the freedom to explore different locations, a touring caravan is the perfect choice for your travels. Unlike static caravans, which are permanently located in one spot, touring caravans are designed to be towed behind a vehicle, allowing you to easily move from place to place.

Facilities and utilities

When considering facilities and utilities for your caravan, there are a few key differences between static and touring options.

Static caravans are equipped with everything

Electricity

• Static caravans are connected to the mains electricity supply of the caravan park or private land they are located on. This provides a constant and stable source of power.
• There is no need to worry about running out of power in a static caravan.

Water

• Static caravans have connections to the mains water supply of the caravan park or private land.
• Running water for sinks, showers, toilets etc. is supplied just like in a regular brick and mortar home.

Sewage

• Waste water and sewage are drained directly into the sewage system of the location.
• No need to manually empty any waste tanks or toilet cassettes.

Touring caravans are self-sufficient

Electricity

• Touring caravans need to be completely self-sufficient when it comes to electricity.
• They have leisure batteries and often solar panels to store and generate electricity.
• Power needs to be carefully managed to avoid running out, especially off-grid.

Water

• Touring caravans carry their own water supply in onboard tanks that must be manually filled.
• Water levels need to be monitored and tanks refilled at service stations when needed.

Sewage

• Touring caravans have cassette toilets and waste water tanks that need regular emptying at service areas.
• No connections to external drainage systems. All waste containment is onboard.

Living space

When it comes to living space, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences. In a static caravan, you’ll have a fixed area with separate rooms for sleeping, dining, and relaxing.

On the other hand, with a touring caravan, you’ll have a more compact and versatile living space that can be easily adjusted to suit your changing needs.

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on how much space you require and whether you prefer a fixed layout or a more flexible setup.

Customisation

When it comes to customisation, you’ve got the freedom to make your caravan truly your own. Whether you choose a static or touring caravan, you can personalise the interior and exterior to reflect your style and preferences.

From choosing the colour scheme to adding unique accessories, customisation allows you to create a space that feels like home wherever you go.

Static caravans can be fully personalised

Static caravans allow for much more flexibility when it comes to customisation and personalisation. Since they are secured to a permanent pitch on a caravan park, there is the option to add extensions, porches, conservatories and other modular add-ons. Being situated in one spot allows for creating nice gardens, patios and deck spaces around the static caravan. The area around the caravan can be customised with landscaping features like gardens, flower beds, fences and walking paths since it is a more permanent setup. Inside, the interior of a static caravan can be customised and personalised through paint colours, flooring, fixtures and furnishings just like a regular home.

Touring caravans are limited in customisation options

In contrast, touring caravans have very limited ability for physical customisation given their purpose is mobility and transportability. The exterior shell and overall structure are fixed and additional extensions or structures cannot easily be added on. Since touring caravans are designed to move frequently, there is no option for permanent add-ons. As touring caravans move from site to site, there is little scope for customising the area around them in terms of landscaping and gardens. The space around a touring caravan will constantly change. Inside, there is some ability to personalise with different soft furnishings, but the physical layout and shell remain fixed. Overall, customisation is restricted compared to static caravans.

Ease of use

When it comes to ease of use, both static caravans and touring caravans have their advantages.

With a static caravan, you’ve got the convenience of having everything set up and ready for you when you arrive at the site.

On the other hand, touring caravans offer the flexibility of being able to easily move from one location to another, allowing you to explore different areas and change your scenery whenever you want.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and how you plan to use your caravan.

Resale & depreciation pros and cons

When it comes to resale value, there are some key differences between static and touring caravans. Static caravans tend to depreciate over time in a similar way to mobile homes. Their resale value declines steadily the longer they are situated on a pitch. Selling a static caravan can also be complex depending on if it’s in a holiday park and the site agreements and ownership status of the pitch itself. If it’s on private land, selling can be much easier.

Touring caravans also depreciate over time but at varying rates depending on the make, model, condition and upkeep. Well-maintained touring caravans tend to hold their value better. There is also a more active secondhand market for touring caravans. They can be sold independently or traded in for a newer model.

Static caravans for sale

Now you know the pros and cons of touring and static caravans, you can make an informed decision about which type works best for you. At The UK Caravan Centre, we stock a range of static caravans for sale. Browse our range of static caravans online and get in touch to book an appointment to view our stock in person.

How to get planning permission for your annexe

In this blog, we explain some common myths and misconceptions about granny annexe planning in the UK and what you can and cannot use your annexe for.  We’ll help you understand the common misconceptions about the planning process, so you can make a successful planning application and get planning permission for your annexe.

Granny annexes, annexes and garden rooms are an increasingly popular option for multi-generational living in the UK. Both for families wanting to move their elderly loved ones closer to them, but also for older children returning from University who can’t yet afford to get on the housing ladder. However, there are a few common misconceptions that can hold people back from exploring this possibility.

How to get planning permission for your annexe – Busting Myths #1 -#6

Myth #1: Granny annexes can only be used by a granny or elderly relative.

While granny annexes are a great way to provide care and support for older family members, they’re not limited to this purpose. They can be used for adult children returning home, teenagers needing more independence, or even as additional living space for visiting friends and family. Provided that the use of the annexe is clearly ancillary to the main dwellinghouse (i.e. shares a clear functional relationship), an annexe can be used for a variety of purposes.

Myth #2: Granny annexes are self-contained and so are separate dwellings.

Annexes by nature typically contain primary living facilities such as a bedroom, kitchen, or bathroom. Whilst this does provide a degree of being self-contained, annexes are considered to be extensions of the main dwellinghouse, albeit detached. Granny annexes typically share some aspects with the main house, such as services and utilities (water, electricity, etc). Provided they are ancillary and are not used as standalone units that share no functional relationship with the main dwelling, annexes may still contain primary living facilities.

Myth #3: Granny annexes do not require planning permission or can be built under Permitted Development Rights.

In many cases, incidental garden outbuildings (such as garages, sheds, or garden rooms) can be built under Class E Permitted Development. Provided they meet set criteria and the site benefits from Permitted Development Rights. However, as annexes are considered to go beyond a use that is incidental to the enjoyment of the dwellinghouse, and are instead ancillary outbuildings, they do not benefit from Permitted Development Rights. Therefore, annexes usually require some form consent from the local council.

Myth #4: Granny annexes must occupy no more than 50% of the available garden space.

The 50% rule usually applies to garden buildings built under Permitted Development. As annexes are ancillary outbuildings and so do not qualify for Permitted Development, the 50% rule does not apply. You can in theory apply for planning permission for any sized annexe, but they must be ancillary and subordinate to the main dwelling. This means the annexe should be smaller in size and scale than the main dwelling and not compete in terms of its level of facilities. It is important to remember that each case is judged on individual merit by the local planning authority.

Myth #5: Granny annexes can be rented out.

Annexes must share a functional relationship with the house (such as occupied by a family member). If an annexe is rented out, especially by occupants who do not share any relationship with the occupants of the main dwelling, this would go beyond the ancillary use that the annexe has been approved for and would be equivalent to creating a new dwelling. The creation of new dwellings in existing residential land is generally resisted, due to site layouts and the intensified development of land, causing an impact on the surrounding area. Annexes can therefore not be rented out as separate units of accommodation.

Myth #6: Granny annexes can be located anywhere within the garden.

Whilst it is true that in theory, you can apply for planning permission for an annexe anywhere within your land ownership, annexes must be ancillary to an existing dwelling and share a clear functional relationship. Therefore, if the annexe is located a considerable distance away from the main dwelling, this will weaken the functional relationship and may give the local planning authority concerns that the annexe will not be used as an ancillary unit and would be tantamount to the creation of a new dwelling. Therefore, as a rule of thumb, we always advise that annexes should ideally be as sited as close to the house as possible, and not of a distance or location that would render it capable of being used as a separate unit.

By busting these common myths and misconceptions, you can make an informed decision about whether a granny annexe is the right option for you. And make a successful application to ensure you get the annexe planning permission you need. Granny annexes offer a fantastic way to provide increased living space and support for loved ones, while still offering them a degree of independence.