If you’re considering buying a static caravan for family holidays, you may be wondering just how long they last. In this article, we take a look at the factors which determine how long a caravan lasts.
You’ll also find handy tips on how to extend the lifespan of your static caravan.
Estimating the lifespan of your static caravan
When looking at the longevity of your static caravan, there’s two things to consider. How long you can park it physically on your holiday park, and how long you can keep it on your pitch. Holiday homeowners upgrade their holiday homes for another main reason: to keep up with fashion and technology. Holiday home interiors and features become outdated quickly.
In the right hands, a static caravan can last several decades. Almost every part can be replaced or renewed. There are some people that have caravans older than 30 years. Although, many opt for a more modern interior, updated features and a larger model.
So, what is the lifespan of my static caravan?
As mentioned above, some caravans can last decades, especially if they are cared for properly. When buying your static caravan, it’s a good idea to plan out any sort of refurbishments that’ll need doing. Both to the exterior and interior.
This will help you estimate how much to spend repairs. This can be vital for protecting your holiday home from ageing. It will also add to your caravan’s longevity.
How long can I keep a static caravan in a park?
You can usually find out how long you can keep your static caravan in a park in your site license agreement. Static caravans can typically be parked on most operators’ parks for 10-20 years. Lodges are allowed to stay slightly longer.
However, the length of time allowed depends on your site license agreement. When you visit parks to view a caravan, be sure to ask how long you can keep your caravan in the park. At this point, it’s also probably a good idea to get an idea of maintenance costs too!
You can keep your caravan in a park for a certain number of years if it’s in good condition. This is why it is important to upkeep repairs and look after your home from day 1.
What is a site license agreement for a caravan site?
The site license agreement, sometimes called a pitch license agreement, sets out the terms of your agreement when you move to a holiday park.
When moving to a holiday park, it is vitally important to review the lease, as this is a legally binding document that determines how long you are allowed to stay in your holiday home.
Usually, site license agreements will state the following about the caravan:
Prices, age, and details about the caravan
A caravan’s depreciation rate
The criteria for determining if a caravan no longer meets park standards
If you are planning to use your static caravan regularly for several years, ensure that your lease agreement allows you to keep it for that duration before exchanging or upgrading.
What happens when my license ends?
In the event that you’re tired of your holiday home, you have a few options to choose from: you may love your caravan but not your holiday park, you may have outgrown your holiday home, it may be old-fashioned, and so on.
You can choose to renew your license or find a new park if you have decided you do not want to stay in the existing park any longer.
5 Top tips for making sure your caravan lasts
Finally, we’ve gathered together 5 tips to help you ensure that your caravan lasts the years (and the family holidays too!) below:
Have proper water maintenance in place – a caravan’s prime enemy is water when it gets into the wrong places!
Maintain flooring – flooring is the one area of a caravan that can deteriorate quickly and it’s prone to water damage too. Keep an eye on any degradation and attend to it as soon as you can.
Look after the roof – again, the roof of a caravan is more prone to damage due to weather and much more. Over time, caravan roofs can deteriorate and allow water into your home.
Keep your gutters as clean as possible – regular cleaning of gutters will prevent water pooling and your roof from rotting.
Install a skirt to your chassis – Caravan chassis’ can corrode easily, especially if your holiday park is located on the coast. A skirt will help to protect this from happening and can consequently increase the longevity of your static home.
Are you looking for your next static caravan?
If you’re on the hunt for a static caravan, maybe you’re upgrading or on the look out for a starter home, then Encore Parcs can help you. Check out our selection of Holiday and Residential homes or contact us to arrange a viewing.
