Mobile Homes - Caravan Sites - Park Homes

Fortunately, not all mobile home sites are like the one in the photograph. Many are used as permanent residential accommodation and are in many ways similar to estates of traditionally-constructed buildings.

With some exceptions, sites for accommodating park homes and caravans require both planning permission and a site licence from the local council. In attaching conditions to licences, councils are required to have regard to the Model Standards and if the licence is already in existence, they must consult with the licence holder.

There are not many law firms that have a specialism in this area, but our team has considerable experience having dealt with issues on behalf of site owners, residents and local authorities. One of our team was involved in the development of the 'Model Standards' for sites before they were released for general consultation.

Over the last few years, there has been a considerable amount of work done by the government departments responsible for this topic and it is expected that there will be further reforms in the not too distant future. The DCLG has released a consultation on the future licensing of mobile homes and for more information, click on this text.

The Sale of Mobile Homes (Interviews) Bill is currently being considered by parliament and intends to introduce a legal requirement that if an owner of a site wishes to assess a prospective resident's suitability in an interview, this must be done in the office of a solicitor who is familiar with the legislation. If the bill does eventually become law, we will of course be able to provide this service.

We are able to apply for licences or appeal the imposition of conditions if the statutory requirements have not been met. We also defend prosecutions for non-compliance. Our Planning Team are able to help with the preparation and submission of applications for planning permission or represent clients on appeals.