Understanding Site Fees

What Your Site Fees Typically Cover

• Pitch rental and park maintenance.
• Grounds upkeep (grass cutting, lighting, roadways, waste management).
• Use of park facilities and communal areas.
• Security services, gates, or CCTV (if applicable).
• Administrative costs associated with park management.

How Site Fees Are Set

• Park owners determine fees annually, often linked to inflation or local costs.
• Some contracts specify a calculation method (e.g., CPI/RPI or fixed % increase).
• Parks should provide clear written notice of any increase and how it was calculated.
• Fee changes should be reasonable and linked to actual operating cost changes.

When Fees Increase

• Request a breakdown of the increase: inflation, maintenance, facility upgrades, etc.
• Compare the new fee against last year’s and ask for justification if the jump is large.
• Check your agreement for review frequency and notice periods.
• Fee hikes during fixed-term agreements may be challengeable if not allowed by contract.

Challenging Unreasonable Increases

• Ask for the full cost justification in writing — especially for large hikes.
• If unclear, request a meeting or explanation via email and keep written records.
• Compare your park’s increase with others in the area for perspective.
• Engage other owners — collective questions often get clearer responses.

Tip: Keep correspondence polite and factual — it strengthens your position if escalation is needed.

Hidden or Additional Charges

• Admin fees for late payments or transfers — ensure these are disclosed in your contract.
• Facility charges (pools, clubs) — check if optional or bundled into your fee.
• Metered utilities: electricity, water, gas usage may be billed separately.
• Insurance fees: you should be able to choose your own insurer if cover meets requirements.

Template: Requesting a Fee Breakdown

Subject: Request for Site Fee Breakdown – Pitch [Number], [Park Name]

Dear [Manager/Operator],

I have received notice of the upcoming site fee increase for [year]. 
Could you please provide a written breakdown showing how the new fee was calculated, 
including any inflation index or additional costs that apply?

I appreciate your transparency and look forward to receiving this information.

Kind regards,
[Name]
[Pitch/Account]
[Contact details]

Late Payment or Disconnection Warnings

• If you fall behind, ask for a payment plan before charges escalate.
• Disconnection or lockout should be a last resort, and notice should be given.
• Keep all communication in writing and maintain proof of payments.