Park homes have become one of the fastest-growing housing options in the UK, offering an affordable and peaceful lifestyle for thousands of residents. Whether you are considering buying a park home, already live in one, or simply want to better understand your rights under the Mobile Homes Act, this comprehensive guide will help you make confident decisions.
At PHHPA.org, our mission is to provide clear, accessible information that empowers park-home residents nationwide.
What Is a Park Home?
A park home—also known as a mobile home or static home—is a prefabricated residential unit located on a privately-owned park site. While they resemble bungalows, they are legally classified as mobile homes and come with their own rights and regulations.
Most park homes are found in:
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Residential parks
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Holiday parks (some with year-round residency rules)
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Mixed-use parks that allow both residential and holiday use
A typical park home includes:
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A fully built residential interior
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Insulated walls and floors
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Modern heating and energy systems
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Private outdoor space
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Access to park facilities
Why Park Homes Are Growing in Popularity
1. Affordability
Compared to traditional bricks-and-mortar homes, park homes are significantly more affordable. They offer an excellent option for retirees or individuals seeking low-maintenance living.
2. Community Lifestyle
Many parks provide a strong sense of community, with social events, shared spaces, and friendly neighbourhoods.
3. Low Maintenance
Park homes are smaller, easier to heat, and simpler to maintain, reducing household costs.
4. Peaceful, Rural Settings
Most parks are located in scenic countryside areas, perfect for residents who value nature, tranquillity, and a slower pace of life.
Understanding Park Home Ownership
Buying a park home is different from buying a traditional house. You own the home, but rent the pitch on which it sits.
This means:
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You sign a Written Statement (your legal agreement)
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You pay a pitch fee
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You have rights under the Mobile Homes Act 1983
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The site owner must maintain the site
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You must follow park rules
The Written Statement is the most important document you will receive. It outlines your rights, obligations, and the park’s responsibilities.
Your Legal Rights as a Park-Home Resident
Under the Mobile Homes Act, you have the right to:
1. Security of Tenure
You cannot be forced to leave your home unless a court orders it and very specific conditions are met.
2. Resell Your Home
You can sell your home on the open market without the site owner blocking the sale.
3. Transfer of Agreement
When you sell, the buyer inherits your rights as stated in your Written Statement.
4. Fair Pitch Fees
Pitch fee increases must follow strict legal procedures and be justified.
5. Protection from Harassment
It is illegal for a site owner to intimidate or pressure you regarding your home, sale, or rights.
Common Issues Park-Home Residents Face
1. Unfair Pitch Fee Increases
Some site owners attempt to increase fees without proper consultation.
2. Maintenance Disputes
Residents may experience issues when park facilities are not maintained as required.
3. Sale Interference
Interference with home sales is unfortunately a common complaint across UK parks.
4. Harassment or Pressure Tactics
Residents may face intimidation, which is illegal under the law.
PHHPA helps residents resolve these issues through guidance, resources, and support.
Buying a Park Home: What You Must Check
Before purchasing a park home, make sure you:
1. Confirm the Park’s Residential Status
Some parks are holiday-only and do not allow year-round living.
2. Get a Copy of the Written Statement
This should include pitch fees, terms, and park rules.
3. Have the Home Inspected
Check insulation, heating, electrics, and structural condition.
4. Verify Age Limits and Rules
Many parks are strictly for residents over 50.
5. Understand All Costs
Pitch fees
Utility charges
Council tax
Maintenance fees
Doing your homework early can prevent expensive mistakes.
Selling a Park Home
Selling a park home is straightforward if you follow legal procedures:
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Sell your home on the open market
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Notify the site owner after accepting an offer
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Buyer receives your Written Statement
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The site owner cannot block the sale
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The site owner cannot demand to meet the buyer before the sale
You keep 100% of the sale price except for the legally required commission (up to 10%).
Site Owner Responsibilities
Site owners must:
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Keep the park safe, clean, and well-maintained
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Provide proper utility infrastructure
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Respect your privacy and rights
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Follow the Mobile Homes Act
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Conduct pitch fee reviews correctly
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Maintain communal facilities and roads
If these responsibilities are not met, residents may take formal action.
How PHHPA Helps Park-Home Residents
The Park Homes & Holiday Parks Association (PHHPA) exists to:
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Protect resident rights
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Provide educational resources
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Offer guidance on disputes
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Assist with pitch fee challenges
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Support residents facing harassment
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Provide template letters, legal explanations, and step-by-step support
Our goal is to ensure every park-home resident in the UK feels heard, protected, and empowered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are park homes a good investment?
Park homes are not traditional investments because they typically do not rise in value like standard houses. They are best viewed as an affordable lifestyle choice.
2. Can you get a mortgage for a park home?
No. Because park homes are not freehold or leasehold properties, mortgages are not available. Buyers must use savings or specialist lending options.
3. Do park-home residents pay council tax?
Yes—most residential park homes fall under Council Tax Band A.
4. What happens if the site owner tries to block my sale?
This is illegal. Under the Mobile Homes Act, site owners cannot interfere with home sales.
5. Can I live in a holiday park all year?
Only if the park has full residential status. Holiday parks are not permitted to offer year-round residency.
