Static Caravan Upgrades, Alterations & Improvements
Practical guidance on decking, alterations, replacement caravans, age limits and park approval requirements.
Before Making Any Changes
Before carrying out work to your static caravan, lodge or pitch, check your licence agreement and park rules carefully.
Some parks require written approval before alterations are made, even where the work appears relatively minor.
Check Whether Park Approval Is Required
Your agreement may require approval before you alter the caravan, install decking or make changes to the pitch.
Before starting work, check whether approval is required for:
- Decking and verandas
- Steps, ramps and handrails
- External storage boxes or sheds
- Skirting around the caravan
- Satellite dishes or aerials
- Air-conditioning equipment
- External lighting
- Other alterations to the caravan or pitch
Get Approval in Writing
If the park agrees to an alteration or improvement, ask for the approval to be confirmed in writing before spending money or starting work.
Keep a copy of the approval together with any drawings, specifications, invoices and other documents relating to the work.
Decking, Verandas & External Structures
Decking can be a significant investment, so check the park's requirements before placing an order.
Ask about:
- Permitted size and design
- Approved materials or colours
- Who is permitted to install the decking
- Access and safety requirements
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Whether approval expires if ownership changes
- What happens to the decking when the caravan is sold or removed
Contractors and Park-Supplied Services
Some parks may have rules about who can carry out work on site. Check your agreement and park rules before arranging an outside contractor.
Before agreeing to work, make sure you understand:
- Whether independent contractors are allowed
- Whether the contractor needs park approval
- Any access or administration charges
- Insurance requirements
- Who is responsible for damage caused during the work
Replacing Your Static Caravan or Lodge
Replacing a caravan can involve much more than simply purchasing a new unit. The park may have rules about what can be placed on the pitch and how the replacement process is handled.
Before committing to a replacement, check:
- Whether you have the right to replace your caravan
- What makes, models or sizes are accepted
- Whether you must purchase through the park
- Delivery and siting costs
- Connection and disconnection charges
- What happens to your existing caravan
- Whether a new pitch agreement will be required
Caravan Age Limits
Some holiday parks operate rules about the age or condition of caravans that may remain on the park.
If an age limit applies, check exactly what your agreement says and what you were told when you purchased the caravan.
Do not assume that a caravan must automatically be replaced simply because it reaches a particular age. The position will depend on your agreement, park rules and individual circumstances.
Pressure to Upgrade or Replace
If you are told that you must upgrade or replace your caravan, ask the park to explain the requirement in writing.
Check:
- Which part of your agreement is being relied upon
- Whether an age or condition rule is clearly stated
- What notice you have been given
- Whether alternative options are available
- What happens if you decide not to replace the caravan
Think About Resale Before Spending Money
Improvements can make your caravan more comfortable, but they do not necessarily increase its resale value by the amount you spend.
Before investing heavily in decking, alterations or other improvements, consider how long you expect to keep the caravan and what the park's resale arrangements are.
What Happens to Improvements When You Sell?
If you later sell the caravan, check whether decking, sheds or other improvements can remain on the pitch and whether they are included in the sale.
You should also understand whether the park can require structures to be removed and who would be responsible for the cost.
Selling Your Static Caravan or LodgeCheck Your Agreement Before Spending Money
Before ordering work or making a major purchase, check the documents that govern your use of the pitch.
Look particularly at sections covering:
- Alterations and improvements
- Park approval
- Caravan age or condition
- Contractors and access
- Selling and transfer
- Removal and disconnection
- Termination of the pitch agreement
Before Making an Upgrade
Having a Dispute About an Upgrade?
If your park is requiring an upgrade, refusing permission or changing the terms of your agreement, visit our owner rights section.
Owner Rights & Park DisputesNeed Advice Before Making Changes?
NSCOU members can ask for guidance about park rules, alterations, upgrades, replacement caravans and related disputes.
Join NSCOU