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In recent years, park homes have become an increasingly attractive housing option for retirees and downsizers across the UK. With their idyllic settings, lower costs compared to traditional bricks-and-mortar properties, and the appeal of a quieter lifestyle, park homes offer a unique blend of affordability and tranquillity. Yet behind the appeal lies a legal framework that is often misunderstood, creating challenges that can catch homeowners by surprise.

What Are Park Homes?

Park homes, sometimes referred to as mobile homes, are single-storey prefabricated properties sited on privately owned parks. They are designed for year-round living and are particularly popular among older individuals seeking a more manageable way of life. However, park homes do not enjoy the same legal status as conventional residential properties.

Ownership of a park home typically involves buying the structure itself while leasing the plot of land it stands on. This arrangement is governed by the Mobile Homes Act 1983, which provides a measure of legal protection for residents. That said, the terms of pitch agreements and the enforcement of rights under the Act can be contentious.

Pitch Agreements and Site Rules

At the heart of most legal issues surrounding park homes is the pitch agreement, a legally binding contract between the resident and the site owner. This agreement outlines not only the resident’s right to occupy the pitch but also the obligations of the site operator in terms of maintenance, services, and management standards.

Site rules, which must be provided to residents and prospective buyers, may impose restrictions such as age limits, pet ownership, or even requirements about the upkeep of the home’s exterior. While some rules are necessary for community cohesion, others may overstep or be inconsistently enforced. Disputes over unfair pitch fee increases or inadequate site maintenance are not uncommon and can prove challenging to resolve without legal support.

Planning Permission and Licensing Concerns

All park home sites must have valid planning permission and a residential site licence from the local authority. These licences stipulate how many homes can be situated on the land and impose conditions related to infrastructure, sanitation, spacing, and fire safety.

Problems arise when a site does not comply with its licence conditions or operates without appropriate permissions. In some cases, residents have invested in homes on unauthorised sites, only to find themselves at risk of enforcement action or, worse, having to vacate their homes entirely. While recent regulations, including the introduction of a “fit and proper person” test for site managers, aim to drive up standards, enforcement remains inconsistent.

Selling a Park Home

The process of selling a park home is also subject to its own unique rules. While recent legal reforms removed the site owner’s right to approve a buyer in most circumstances, they still retain the ability to collect a commission of up to 10% of the sale price. This fee can come as a surprise to sellers and remains a point of ongoing debate.

The seller must provide the buyer with the written statement, site rules, and any other relevant information, often requiring legal guidance to ensure compliance and avoid disputes. An experienced solicitor can help draft and review documentation to ensure a smooth transaction and safeguard the seller’s rights.

Legal Support is Crucial

Given the unusual status of park homes in UK housing law, early legal advice is essential. Residents and buyers must be aware of their rights and obligations before committing to a purchase or entering into a pitch agreement. Issues such as unfair contract terms, unclear site rules, or disputes with site operators can quickly escalate without clear legal guidance.

Solicitors in Burnley, for example, have seen a growing number of enquiries related to park homes, reflecting the increasing popularity of this lifestyle in Lancashire and surrounding areas. Local legal expertise ensures familiarity with both national legislation and the practices of nearby site operators and local authorities.

Park homes offer a lifestyle that appeals to many, especially those looking to simplify their living arrangements but they require careful consideration. Buyers and current residents alike must remain vigilant, informed, and legally supported to protect their homes, their finances, and their peace of mind.