Chapter 2 — Is Park Home Living Right for You?

Choosing where to live is one of the most significant decisions any of us will ever make. Moving to a residential park home is not simply a change of address — it is a change of lifestyle. For the right person, in the right circumstances, it can be an absolutely wonderful change. But it is important to go in with your eyes open, and that means asking yourself some honest questions before you commit.

The Honest Advantages

Let us start with the good news, because there is plenty of it. Residential park home living offers a genuinely compelling set of benefits that are hard to match in conventional housing:

• Affordability — Park homes typically cost significantly less than comparable bricks-and-mortar properties in the same area, allowing many buyers to purchase outright with cash released from the sale of a larger home, leaving money in the bank for retirement

• No stamp duty — Because you are buying a structure rather than land, park home purchases are exempt from Stamp Duty Land Tax, saving buyers thousands of pounds

• Low maintenance living — A modern park home on a well-managed site requires far less upkeep than a traditional house with multiple floors, a large garden and ageing infrastructure

• Community and companionship — The over-55 demographic that makes up most residential parks creates a naturally supportive, friendly and neighbourly environment

• Security — Most parks are gated or managed, with a resident park manager or warden, giving residents a genuine sense of safety and peace of mind

• Downsizing made easy — Moving from a large family home into a well-designed, single-storey park home is one of the most practical and comfortable ways to downsize in later life

The Points to Consider Carefully

Honesty matters, and a truly useful guide must also flag the things that occasionally catch people out:

• You do not own the land — As explained in Chapter 1, you own the home but rent the pitch. This is different from conventional home ownership and takes some adjustment in thinking

• No traditional mortgage — High street banks do not offer standard mortgages on park homes. Some specialist lenders do offer finance, but most buyers purchase outright with cash

• Pitch fees rise annually — Your pitch fee will be reviewed every year, typically linked to the Consumer Price Index. It is important to budget for gradual increases over time

• Resale market — While park homes do hold their value reasonably well, they do not appreciate in the same way as bricks-and-mortar property. This is worth factoring into any long-term financial planning

• Park quality varies enormously — A well-managed park like Redlands Park, with its community hub, social facilities and proactive residents’ committee, is a joy to live on. Poorly managed parks do exist, and choosing the right one requires careful research

Is It Right for You?

If you are approaching or in retirement, looking to release equity, seeking a manageable single-storey home, and value community life and security, then residential park home living deserves very serious consideration. Hundreds of thousands of people across the UK have made this choice and never looked back.

If, on the other hand, you are hoping for a traditional investment property that will significantly increase in value, or you prefer complete independence from any form of site management, then it may not be the right fit.

The best advice we can give — from ten years of lived experience — is to visit several parks, talk to the residents (not just the sales staff), and trust your instincts about the community you find there.

Chapter 3 — Residential vs. Holiday Parks

One of the most common sources of confusion for people new to the park home world is the difference between a residential park and a holiday park. They can look remarkably similar from the outside, but legally and practically they are entirely different things — and buying the wrong type could cause you serious problems.

Holiday Parks

A holiday park is licensed for recreational use only. The homes on a holiday park — whether they are static caravans, lodge-style cabins or chalet bungalows — are not permitted to be used as a permanent main residence. The site licence will specify this clearly, and local councils enforce it.

Holiday parks typically have restrictions on how many weeks per year the home can be occupied — commonly 10 or 11 months, with a closed period in winter. This alone makes them unsuitable for permanent living. If you attempt to use a holiday home as your permanent address, you risk enforcement action from the local authority.

Residential Parks

A residential park holds a different category of site licence that specifically permits permanent, year-round occupation as a main residence. The homes must meet the BS3632 standard we discussed in Chapter 1. Residents have full legal protection under the Mobile Homes Act and are entitled to register the address with their GP, electoral roll, DVLA and all other official bodies.

How to Tell the Difference

Always ask to see the site licence before purchasing any park home. This is a legal document issued by the local council and it will clearly state what the park is licensed for. If a seller or park operator is reluctant to show you this document, treat that as a serious warning sign.

Also check:

• Whether the homes on site carry BS3632 certification

• Whether existing residents are registered to vote at the address

• Whether the park has mains gas, water, electricity and sewerage connections

• Whether the park is open 52 weeks of the year

At Redlands Park, all of these conditions are met, and residents have the full security and comfort of knowing their home is a proper, legally recognised permanent residence.

Chapter 4 — Costs and Finances Explained

One of the great attractions of residential park home living is the financial picture — but it is important to understand all the numbers clearly before you commit. Let us walk through everything you need to know.

Purchase Price

New residential park homes in the UK typically start from around £139,950 for a smaller two-bedroom model, rising to £300,000 or more for larger, premium specification homes. Pre-owned park homes can be found for considerably less, often representing excellent value, though it is important to check the age and condition of the home carefully and ensure it still meets BS3632 standard.

No Stamp Duty

As mentioned in Chapter 2, park home purchases are exempt from Stamp Duty Land Tax. On a £200,000 purchase, this alone saves you £1,500. On higher value properties the saving is even greater. This is a genuine and significant financial advantage.

No Traditional Mortgage

High street lenders do not offer standard mortgages on park homes because you do not own the land. A small number of specialist finance companies do offer park home loans, but interest rates tend to be higher than standard mortgages. The vast majority of park home buyers purchase outright using the equity released from selling a previous property. This means many residents own their home completely debt-free — a very comfortable position to be in.

Pitch Fees

The pitch fee is the regular payment you make to the park operator for the right to keep your home on its plot. Think of it as a combination of ground rent and site maintenance charge. Pitch fees vary considerably from park to park, but a typical range in 2025 and 2026 is between £150 and £350 per month, depending on location, park quality and what is included.

Your pitch fee will typically cover:

• Maintenance of communal areas, roads and pathways

• Refuse collection arrangements

• General park management costs

It will not usually cover your home’s individual utility bills, which are metered and charged separately.

Council Tax

Residential park homes are subject to council tax, and most fall into Band A — the lowest band. This makes them considerably cheaper than most conventional homes for council tax purposes, which is another welcome financial advantage.

Utilities

Gas, electricity and water are connected to your home individually and metered in the normal way. Some parks purchase energy wholesale and resell it to residents — this is legal but the rates must be fair and transparent. Always check how energy is supplied and priced before purchasing on any park.

The Overall Financial Picture

For many buyers, particularly those releasing equity from a larger family home, the financial arithmetic of park home living is extremely attractive. Buying outright, paying Band A council tax, keeping pitch fees manageable and living in a low-maintenance home can free up significant capital and reduce monthly outgoings considerably — leaving more money to enjoy retirement.

Chapter 5 — Pitch Fees Explained

The pitch fee is one of the most important ongoing costs of park home living, and understanding exactly how it works will save you worry and potentially money over the years. This chapter explains everything you need to know.

What Is a Pitch Fee?

Your pitch fee is the amount you pay your park operator — usually monthly — for the right to station your home on your allocated plot and use the communal facilities and services of the park. It is set out clearly in your written agreement, which is the legal contract between you and the park operator.

How Are Pitch Fees Reviewed?

By law, pitch fees can only be increased once per year, and the park operator must give you at least 28 days’ written notice of any proposed increase. The review is typically linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) — a measure of inflation — though in some agreements it may be linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) instead. Your written agreement will specify which index applies to you.

If the CPI is 3% in a given year, your pitch fee can be increased by up to 3%. If inflation is very low — or even negative — your pitch fee should reflect that too, meaning it could stay the same or even reduce. Always check what index your agreement refers to and keep an eye on the published figures each year.

Can You Challenge a Pitch Fee Increase?

Yes, you can. If you believe a proposed pitch fee increase is unreasonable or has not been calculated correctly, you have the right to challenge it. The first step is always to raise the matter through your Residents’ Committee — which is exactly the kind of situation where Sandra’s experience as Chairman at Redlands Park proved invaluable over the years. A strong, knowledgeable committee is worth its weight in gold when it comes to pitch fee negotiations.

If the matter cannot be resolved by discussion with the park operator, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in England, or the equivalent body in Wales and Scotland, to have the pitch fee reviewed independently. This process is free to residents and the tribunal has the power to set the fee at whatever level it considers fair.

What Does the Pitch Fee Cover?

This varies from park to park and should be clearly specified in your written agreement. Typically a pitch fee covers:

• Maintenance of communal roads, pathways and landscaping

• Communal lighting

• General park management and administration

• Use of any communal facilities provided by the park operator

It does not cover your personal utility bills, your home insurance, or any maintenance to your individual home. Always read your written agreement carefully to understand exactly what your pitch fee includes.

Keeping Records

Always keep every pitch fee review letter and every payment record safely filed. If a dispute ever arises, having a complete paper trail is invaluable. This is simple advice, but it is the kind of practical tip that only comes from experience — and it is one we pass on with some feeling.

Chapter 6 — Energy, Utilities and Running Costs

Understanding your day-to-day running costs is essential for budgeting comfortably in retirement. Modern residential park homes are generally very economical to run, but there are some specific points about how utilities work on parks that are worth knowing.

Heating Your Home

Most modern park homes are heated by gas central heating, though some newer models use air source heat pumps — an increasingly popular and energy-efficient alternative, particularly as gas prices fluctuate. Older park homes may use electric storage heaters or oil-fired heating. When viewing any park home, always ask about the type of heating system installed and when it was last serviced.

Modern BS3632-standard park homes are well insulated, with double or triple glazed windows and cavity insulation, meaning they are generally efficient to heat. Many residents find their heating bills surprisingly reasonable compared to a larger conventional home.

Electricity Supply

Electricity on residential parks is sometimes supplied directly by the National Grid to each home individually, but on some parks the operator purchases electricity wholesale and distributes it to residents as a sub-meter arrangement. This is perfectly legal, but the rates charged must not exceed the maximum tariff set by Ofgem. If you are on a sub-metered supply, check that your rates are fair and within the legal limits. Your Residents’ Committee is a good source of advice on this.

Water and Drainage

Water is supplied through the mains and metered in the standard way. Drainage connects to the mains sewerage system on most established parks. Always confirm this when viewing a home, as a small number of older parks still use septic tanks or private drainage systems, which require periodic emptying and maintenance.

Council Tax — Band A

As noted in Chapter 4, residential park homes are assessed for council tax in Band A, the lowest band. This applies throughout England, Wales and Scotland. It is one of the most straightforward financial advantages of park home living and represents a real saving compared to most conventional homes.

Budgeting for Running Costs

As a rough guide, a typical two-bedroom residential park home might cost approximately:

• Pitch fee: £150–£350 per month

• Gas and electricity: £80–£150 per month depending on usage and season

• Water: £25–£40 per month

• Council Tax (Band A): approximately £100–£140 per month depending on local authority

• Home insurance: £20–£50 per month (specialist park home insurance is recommended)

These figures are approximate and will vary by location and personal usage, but they give a useful sense of what to budget for.

Chapter 7 — Your Legal Rights as a Park Home Resident

This is one of the most important chapters in this guide, and we urge every reader to study it carefully — not because you are likely to need it every day, but because knowing your rights is the foundation of confident, secure park home living.

The Mobile Homes Act 1983

The cornerstone of residential park home law in the United Kingdom is the Mobile Homes Act 1983, significantly strengthened and updated by the Mobile Homes Act 2013. Together these pieces of legislation give residential park home residents a level of legal protection that many people are unaware of and that surprises those who imagined park home living to be somehow insecure or precarious.

The key protections include:

• Security of tenure — You have the right to live in your home on your pitch for as long as you wish. A park operator cannot simply evict you or terminate your agreement without going to court and demonstrating very specific legal grounds

• Written agreement — You are entitled to a written agreement setting out all the terms of your occupation, including your pitch fee, the park rules, and both parties’ rights and responsibilities

• Protection from harassment — It is a criminal offence for a park operator to harass, intimidate or interfere with a resident’s peaceful enjoyment of their home

• Right to sell — You have the right to sell your home to a buyer of your choice. The park operator has no right of veto over who you sell to

The Written Agreement

When you purchase a park home, you will receive a written agreement — sometimes called a site agreement or pitch agreement — which is your legal contract with the park operator. This document must conform to a standard form prescribed by law. It sets out:

• The pitch fee and review procedure

• The site rules (rules of the park)

• The park operator’s obligations to maintain the park

• Your obligations as a resident

• The procedure for selling or gifting the home

Read this document very carefully before signing. If you are uncertain about anything, seek independent legal advice. Some solicitors specialise in park home law and it is money well spent to have the agreement checked before you commit.

Site Rules

Every park has a set of site rules — a written document setting out the standards and conduct expected of all residents and visitors. These typically cover matters such as:

• The appearance and maintenance of homes and gardens

• Parking arrangements

• Noise and nuisance

• Pet ownership

• Use of communal facilities

• Visitor parking and overnight guests

Site rules must be reasonable and must not discriminate unlawfully. If you believe a site rule is unreasonable or has been applied unfairly, your Residents’ Committee is the first port of call — and ultimately the matter can be taken to the First-tier Tribunal.

The Park Operator’s Obligations

Your park operator has clear legal duties, including:

• Maintaining communal areas, roads and pathways in a reasonable condition

• Keeping communal lighting working

• Ensuring the park’s site licence conditions are met at all times

• Giving proper notice of any pitch fee increases

• Not interfering with your right to quiet enjoyment of your home

If a park operator fails in these duties, residents have legal remedies available, including complaints to the local council (which enforces site licence conditions) and applications to the tribunal.

Chapter 8 — Selling or Gifting Your Park Home

At some point, you may wish to sell your park home, or perhaps pass it on to a family member. The rules around this are quite specific and worth understanding clearly.

Your Right to Sell

You have an absolute right to sell your residential park home to a buyer of your choice. The park operator has no right of veto over the sale or the buyer. However, there is one important financial consideration that many people are not aware of when they first move onto a park.

The 10% Commission

When you sell your park home, the park operator is legally entitled to charge a commission of up to 10% of the sale price. This is not a fee you pay upfront — it is deducted from the proceeds of the sale. So if you sell your home for £150,000, the park operator receives up to £15,000 from that sale.

This commission arrangement is written into the Mobile Homes Act and applies to all residential park homes in England and Wales. It is the law, and you cannot negotiate it away. What you can do is factor it into your financial planning from the outset, so it does not come as an unwelcome surprise when the time comes to sell.

Gifting to a Family Member

You are permitted to gift your park home to a family member — defined in law as a spouse or civil partner, children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, or siblings. In the case of a gift to a family member, the park operator’s 10% commission does not apply. The gift must be properly documented in writing and both parties should take legal advice.

Practical Tips for Selling

• Price your home realistically, taking the 10% commission into account

• Consider having the home professionally valued by an agent who specialises in park homes

• Ensure the home is well maintained and presented — first impressions matter enormously

• Inform the park operator of your intention to sell in writing and keep a copy of all correspondence

• Make sure all paperwork, including your written agreement, is in order and available to show prospective buyers

Chapter 9 — Choosing the Right Park

Finding the right park is every bit as important as finding the right home. The park you choose will shape your daily life, your community, your sense of security and your happiness for years to come. This chapter will help you approach that search systematically and confidently.

Start With Location

Think carefully about where you want to live. Consider:

• Proximity to family — particularly important as we get older

• Access to shops, medical services, a GP surgery, a hospital

• Public transport links if you no longer drive or plan to give up driving in the future

• The general character of the area — rural, coastal, market town, suburban

Visit Several Parks in Person

Never buy a park home without visiting the park first — and ideally visiting more than once, at different times of day. Walk around the park. Look at the condition of the roads, pathways and communal areas. Are they well maintained? Are the gardens of individual homes tidy and cared for? Is the general atmosphere pleasant and welcoming?

Talk to residents if you can. Residents are usually the most honest source of information about what a park is really like to live on. Ask them how they find the park management, whether pitch fee increases have been reasonable, and whether they would recommend the park. You will learn more in a ten-minute conversation with a resident than from an hour with a sales representative.

Check the Site Licence

Ask to see the park’s site licence — the document issued by the local council that authorises the park to operate. Check that it specifically permits permanent residential occupation and that it is current and valid. Also check whether there are any outstanding enforcement notices or conditions attached to the licence.

Key Questions to Ask the Park Operator

• What is the current pitch fee and when was it last reviewed?

• What is the age restriction policy on this park?

• Are pets permitted, and if so are there any restrictions?

• How many homes are on the park?

• Is there an active Residents’ Committee?

• What communal facilities are available?

• How is energy supplied — directly by the national grid or through a sub-meter arrangement?

• What is the procedure if I have a complaint or a dispute?

Trust Your Instincts

After ten years at Redlands Park, we can tell you honestly that the feeling you get when you walk through the gates of the right park is unmistakable. You sense the community, the care, the pride that residents take in their home and their surroundings. Trust that feeling. If a park does not feel right, move on and keep looking.

Chapter 10 — The Buying Process Step by Step

Once you have found a park you like and a home that appeals to you, the buying process is relatively straightforward — but there are important steps to follow carefully.

Step 1 — Reserve the Home
If you are buying a new park home from a manufacturer or park operator, you may be asked to pay a reservation fee to hold the home while your paperwork is processed. Make sure you receive a receipt and understand the terms under which this fee is refundable.

Step 2 — Receive and Read the Written Agreement
By law, the park operator must give you the written agreement at least 28 days before you are asked to sign it. Use this time to read it thoroughly. If anything is unclear, seek independent legal advice from a solicitor who specialises in park home law.

Step 3 — Check the Home’s Certification
Confirm that the home carries BS3632 certification and ask for documentary evidence. Ask about the age of the home, when major systems (heating, electrics, roof) were last serviced or replaced, and whether there is any existing warranty.

Step 4 — Arrange Insurance
Standard home insurance policies do not always cover park homes adequately. Arrange specialist park home insurance before you complete the purchase. Several companies offer policies specifically designed for park homes.

Step 5 — Sign the Written Agreement
Once you are satisfied with all the documentation and have taken any legal advice you need, you sign the written agreement. Keep your copy safely filed — you will need to refer to it throughout your time on the park.

Step 6 — Complete the Purchase
As there is no land transfer involved, there is no need for conveyancing solicitors in the traditional sense, though it is still wise to have a solicitor check the written agreement. Payment is made directly to the seller (for a pre-owned home) or to the park operator or manufacturer (for a new home).

Step 7 — Move In
Once everything is signed and payment has been made, the home is yours. Register your new address with your GP, electoral roll, DVLA, pension provider, bank and all other relevant organisations.

Chapter 11 — Questions to Ask Before You Buy

This chapter is a practical checklist — the kind of thing you can print out and take with you when visiting parks and viewing homes. Tick each item off as you get a satisfactory answer.

About the Park

• Is the site licence current and does it permit permanent residential occupation?

• What is the age restriction policy?

• How many homes are on the park?

• Is there an active Residents’ Committee?

• What communal facilities are available?

• How is the park managed — is there a resident warden or manager?

• When were the communal roads and pathways last resurfaced?

• What is the park’s policy on pets?

• Is there visitor parking available?

• Are there any outstanding enforcement notices or complaints against the park?

About the Pitch Fee

• What is the current pitch fee?

• When was it last reviewed and by how much did it increase?

• Which inflation index is used for annual reviews — CPI or RPI?

• What does the pitch fee include?

About the Home

• Does the home carry BS3632 certification?

• How old is the home?

• When was the heating system last serviced?

• When were the electrics last tested (EICR certificate)?

• Is there a current gas safety certificate?

• What is the roof construction and when was it last inspected?

• Is there any evidence of damp or water ingress?

• What insulation is fitted?

• What type of heating system is installed?

About the Legal Process

• Have you received the written agreement at least 28 days before signing?

• Have you had the written agreement checked by a solicitor?

• Are you clear on the 10% resale commission?

• Have you arranged specialist park home insurance?

Chapter 12 — Top UK Regions for Park Homes

Residential parks are found throughout the United Kingdom, from the tip of Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands. Each region offers a different lifestyle, landscape and price point. Here is a brief guide to some of the most popular areas.

The South West of England

The South West — Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset — is perennially one of the most popular regions for park home buyers. The combination of beautiful countryside, coastal scenery, mild climate and relatively affordable park homes makes it hugely attractive. Prices are higher near the coast, but inland locations offer excellent value.

The South East

Kent, Sussex and Hampshire offer proximity to London without the capital’s prices. Parks in this region tend to be well established, and there is good access to services, transport and healthcare. Prices reflect the demand.

The Midlands

The Midlands — including Warwickshire, where we are proud to be based — offers excellent value for money, good transport links and a wealth of market towns and villages nearby. Parks here tend to be quieter than coastal locations but offer a very comfortable standard of living and a strong community atmosphere.

Wales

Wales offers some of the most scenic park home locations in the UK, from the Pembrokeshire coast to the Brecon Beacons. Prices are generally lower than equivalent English locations and the pace of life is wonderfully unhurried.

Yorkshire and the North

Yorkshire, Lancashire and the Lake District offer outstanding natural beauty combined with significantly lower prices than the South. For buyers who want to maximise what their money buys, the North of England offers some extraordinary value.

Scotland

Scotland has its own legal framework — the Mobile Homes Act (Scotland) 2013 — but the fundamental protections for residents are similar to those in England and Wales. Scottish parks offer spectacular scenery and some of the most affordable park home prices in the UK.

Chapter 13 — Life on the Park: What Nobody Tells You

This is the chapter that only people who actually live on a residential park could write. Over ten years at Redlands Park, Terry and Elizabeth have experienced the full richness of park home life — the wonderful parts that the brochures capture, and the practical realities that they don’t always mention.

The Community Is Real

When park home brochures talk about community spirit, it might sound like marketing language. It isn’t. The community on a well-run residential park is one of the most genuinely supportive living environments we have ever experienced. Neighbours look out for one another in a very natural and unforced way. If Elizabeth has been unwell, neighbours have appeared at the door with offers of help. If we have been away, neighbours have kept an eye on the home without being asked. This is not unusual — it is simply the culture of park home living.

Noise Travels More Than in a Brick House

This is something the brochures rarely mention. Park homes, while well insulated against the cold, do transmit sound more readily than solid brick or stone walls. A neighbour’s television late at night or a noisy gathering can sometimes be heard more clearly than you might expect. The good news is that the community culture on most parks means that residents are naturally considerate of one another, and noise problems are rare. But it is worth knowing.

The Park Looks Different in Every Season

When you view a park in summer, it looks magnificent. Green lawns, flowers in bloom, residents sitting outside. Visit in February on a wet and windy day and you will get a more honest picture. We strongly recommend visiting at least once in winter before committing to purchase — not because parks look bad in winter, but because you want to be sure you are happy with the home’s warmth, the road surfaces, and the general feel of the park in all weathers.

Your Neighbours Are Your Greatest Asset

Choose your pitch wisely. On most parks you will have some choice about which pitch you take, and it is worth thinking carefully about your immediate neighbours. Introducing yourself to the people who will be living next door to you before you commit is not rude — it is sensible. Most residents will be delighted to chat and will tell you honestly what the park is like.

Small Irritations Are Manageable

Every community has its minor irritations — a resident who parks inconsiderately, a dispute over a hedge boundary, a communal area that takes longer than it should to be repaired. The key is to deal with these things through the proper channels — the Residents’ Committee, and if necessary the park management — rather than letting them fester. A good committee, like the one Sandra chaired at Redlands Park, makes all the difference in resolving these small matters before they become big ones.

Chapter 14 — Community Life on a Residential Park

One of the greatest pleasures of residential park home living — and one that is genuinely difficult to fully appreciate until you experience it — is the richness of community life that develops on a well-run park.

The Community Hub at Redlands Park

At Redlands Park, the heart of community life is our community hub — a shared space where residents can gather for tea and coffee, play cards or board games, share news, and simply enjoy one another’s company. On any given morning you will find a handful of residents settled in comfortable chairs, catching up on the day’s events and putting the world to rights.

This kind of space is invaluable, particularly for residents who live alone or whose family members live at a distance. The social contact it provides, the laughter and the sense of belonging, contributes enormously to the wellbeing and mental health of residents. If you are considering a park that does not have a communal facility of this kind, it is worth asking whether there are plans to create one — or whether the Residents’ Committee could make it a priority.

The Second-Hand Shop

Redlands Park also has a resident-run second-hand shop, and it is one of the most popular and well-loved features of life on the park. Residents donate items they no longer need — books, ornaments, kitchenware, clothing, small pieces of furniture — and others buy them at very modest prices, with any proceeds going back into the community.

The shop is far more than just a place to buy and sell. It is a social hub in its own right, a place for a chat, a browse and a bargain. For residents on fixed incomes, it offers genuine practical value. For everyone, it offers the pleasure of knowing that nothing goes to waste and that the community looks after itself.

The Defibrillator — A Lifesaving Asset

Redlands Park is particularly proud to have been the first park in our area to install a defibrillator in an accessible communal location. A defibrillator — an Automated External Defibrillator or AED — is a device that can deliver a controlled electric shock to restart a heart that has gone into a dangerous rhythm during a cardiac arrest. Every second counts in a cardiac emergency, and having a defibrillator on site could quite literally be the difference between life and death.

If your park does not yet have a defibrillator, we strongly encourage your Residents’ Committee to make this a priority. Funding is available through a number of sources:

• The British Heart Foundation runs a community defibrillator programme and can provide funding support

• The National Lottery Community Fund has funded defibrillators for community groups

• Local councils and parish councils sometimes have small grants available for community safety equipment

• Local businesses and community fundraising can bridge any remaining gap

A defibrillator costs in the region of £1,000 to £1,500 including the cabinet and installation. For a park of any size, that is a very achievable sum to raise — and the peace of mind it provides to every resident is beyond price.

Events and Activities

Many residential parks organise regular social events — seasonal parties, quiz nights, coffee mornings, craft groups and outings. These events are the glue that holds the community together and they make park home living feel like so much more than just a place to sleep. If your park does not currently have a social programme, the Residents’ Committee is the natural body to organise one.

Chapter 15 — The Residents’ Committee: How It Works and Why It Matters

Of all the features that distinguish a well-run residential park from a poorly run one, few are more important than a strong, active and knowledgeable Residents’ Committee. This chapter draws directly on Sandra’s five years as Chairman of the Residents’ Committee at Redlands Park — experience that gave our family an intimate understanding of exactly how these committees work and why they matter so much.

What Is a Residents’ Committee?

A Residents’ Committee — sometimes called a Residents’ Association — is a body elected by the residents of a park to represent their collective interests. It provides a formal channel through which residents can raise concerns, negotiate with park management, and work together to improve life on the park.

Under the Mobile Homes Act, park operators in England are required to consult with the Residents’ Committee on a range of matters, including proposed changes to site rules and certain types of work on the park. This gives a properly constituted committee real legal standing and genuine influence.

How Is the Committee Organised?

A typical Residents’ Committee will have:

• A Chairman — who chairs meetings, represents residents in dealings with park management and acts as the primary point of contact

• A Secretary — who manages correspondence, keeps minutes of meetings and handles administrative matters

• A Treasurer — who manages any funds the committee holds

• General Committee Members — elected representatives who bring the views of their fellow residents to the committee table

Elections are typically held annually, and any resident in good standing is entitled to stand and to vote. The committee operates under a constitution — a set of rules governing how it functions — which should be agreed and adopted by residents.

Sandra’s Experience as Chairman

During her two years as Chairman at Redlands Park, Sandra dealt with the full range of issues that a Residents’ Committee encounters. These included:

• Pitch fee review negotiations — scrutinising the annual pitch fee review letters, checking the calculations against the correct inflation index, and representing residents in discussions with park management where the figures did not add up

• Site rule disputes — working with park management to resolve disagreements about the interpretation and application of site rules, always seeking fair and sensible outcomes

• Communal maintenance issues — chasing and monitoring the repair and upkeep of communal roads, lighting and facilities, keeping detailed records of reported issues and responses received

• Resident support — being the first point of contact for residents who had concerns or complaints, helping them understand their rights and navigate the correct procedures

• Community projects — playing a key role in organising and supporting community initiatives including the defibrillator installation and the development of communal facilities

The role of committee chairman is demanding but enormously rewarding. Sandra approached it with dedication, care and a firm but always fair manner — qualities that earned her the trust and respect of residents and park management alike.

Why Every Resident Should Support Their Committee

A Residents’ Committee is only as strong as the support it receives from the community it represents. We urge every resident to:

• Attend committee meetings when possible

• Vote in committee elections

• Bring issues and concerns to the committee promptly

• Consider standing for election — fresh voices and new energy are always welcome

• Support the committee’s decisions and initiatives even when progress feels slow

A park without an active Residents’ Committee is a park where individual residents have to fight their own battles alone. A park with a strong committee is a community where everyone’s interests are protected.

Chapter 16 — Dealing With Park Management

The relationship between residents and park management is, on a well-run park, a positive and cooperative one. But difficulties do sometimes arise, and knowing how to handle them effectively is an important skill for any park home resident.

Always Start With Communication

The first step in resolving any issue with park management is straightforward communication. Raise the matter calmly and clearly, preferably in writing so that there is a record. State the issue, what you would like done about it, and a reasonable timescale for a response. Keep copies of everything.

Use the Residents’ Committee

For any issue that affects residents collectively — a communal maintenance failure, a disputed site rule, a pitch fee review that doesn’t appear to have been calculated correctly — the Residents’ Committee is the appropriate body to take the matter forward. There is strength in numbers, and a committee raising a concern carries far more weight than an individual doing so alone.

Escalation — The Local Council

If a matter relates to the condition of the park or a breach of the site licence — for example, communal roads that are dangerously deteriorated, or communal lighting that has been out of order for an extended period — you can report this to your local council. The council is responsible for enforcing site licence conditions, and it has the power to require park operators to rectify breaches.

The First-tier Tribunal

For disputes about pitch fees, site rules or the terms of your written agreement, the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in England (or equivalent in Wales and Scotland) provides an independent and free forum for resolution. Applications can be made by individuals or by the Residents’ Committee on behalf of all residents. The tribunal’s decisions are legally binding.

As a Last Resort — Legal Action

In cases of serious breach of the written agreement, harassment, or unlawful eviction, legal action through the courts may be necessary. Seek specialist legal advice from a solicitor experienced in park home law. Several organisations provide free initial advice, including IPHAS (the Independent Park Home Advisory Service) and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

Chapter 17 — Maintaining Your Park Home

A well-maintained park home will give you many years of comfortable, trouble-free living. The good news is that maintenance requirements are generally modest — particularly compared to a large traditional house. But there are some specific things to keep an eye on that are particular to park homes.

The Roof

Most park homes have a pitched roof with either felt tiles, fibreglass or a rubber membrane covering. Inspect the roof visually at least once a year — ideally in autumn before winter weather arrives. Look for:

• Lifted, cracked or missing tiles or membrane

• Blocked or damaged gutters and downpipes

• Signs of moss or algae growth, which can trap moisture

Gutters in particular should be cleared of leaves and debris every autumn. A blocked gutter in winter can cause water to overflow and penetrate around windows and walls.

Damp

Damp is the enemy of any home, but park homes require particular vigilance because their construction — typically a timber frame with insulated panels — can be vulnerable to moisture ingress if the exterior is not kept in good condition. Check regularly around:

• Window and door frames (re-seal with exterior sealant if gaps appear)

• Skirting boards at ground level

• The underside of the home (if accessible) for any signs of moisture

If you spot any signs of damp — a musty smell, discolouration on walls, or condensation on cold surfaces — address it promptly. Left untreated, damp can cause significant and expensive damage.

The Exterior

The exterior cladding or render of your park home should be inspected annually and repainted or resealed as needed. Most park homes have either a painted render finish or a vinyl or timber cladding. Keeping this in good condition not only protects the structure but maintains the appearance of your home — which matters for park standards and for resale value.

Heating System

Your boiler or heating system should be professionally serviced every year without fail. This is not only good maintenance practice — if you have a gas supply, an annual service and gas safety check is a legal requirement. Keep the certificate in a safe place.

Electrics

Have your electrics tested by a qualified electrician every five years (an Electrical Installation Condition Report, or EICR). This is particularly important in an older park home and gives you peace of mind that everything is safe.

A Simple Annual Maintenance Checklist

• Spring: Check roof and gutters after winter; inspect exterior paintwork; service garden areas

• Summer: Check window and door seals; inspect decking or veranda if fitted; review garden irrigation

• Autumn: Clear gutters; check roof before winter; service boiler; check insulation around pipes

• Winter: Monitor for damp; ensure heating is functioning efficiently; keep pipes from freezing in severe cold

Chapter 18 — Health, Wellbeing and Getting Older on the Park

This chapter is written especially for the many residents who are in their sixties, seventies, eighties and beyond — because getting older brings its own practical considerations, and the best communities are the ones that support their older members with kindness, practicality and good sense.

At eighty years old, Terry knows better than most that a little forward planning and the right reminders can make daily life enormously more manageable and enjoyable.

Daily Routines and Memory Prompts

As we get older, routines become our friends. A simple daily checklist — whether written on paper, on a whiteboard, or on a tablet device — can make a real difference to staying on top of the things that matter. Consider keeping a checklist that includes:

• Medication (what to take and when)

• Pitch fee payment date (usually monthly — set a standing order if possible)

• Boiler service due date (annual)

• Electrician’s check due date (every five years)

• Gas safety certificate renewal (annual)

• Buildings and contents insurance renewal date

• Pitch fee review letter — date to expect it and date to respond by if querying it

These are the kinds of things that can easily slip your mind — and missing them can have practical and financial consequences.

Accessibility Adaptations

Modern park homes are single-storey, which is an enormous practical advantage as mobility becomes a consideration. There are no stairs to worry about. However, there are other adaptations that can make life significantly easier and safer:

• Grab rails in the bathroom and by external steps — these can be fitted inexpensively and make a huge difference

• A walk-in shower instead of a bath, if not already fitted

• Good exterior lighting — motion-activated lights at the door are particularly helpful

• A ramp instead of steps at the main entrance if mobility becomes an issue

• Lever-style door handles rather than round knobs, which are easier to manage for those with arthritis

Many of these adaptations are available through your local council’s Disabled Facilities Grant scheme, which can provide funding for essential accessibility improvements.

Health Services and Support

As a park home resident, you are entitled to all the same NHS and local authority services as any other resident:

• Register with your local GP surgery if you have not already done so

• Ensure you are receiving all age-appropriate health screenings and vaccinations

• Contact your local council’s social services department if you need support with daily living activities

• Age UK provides a wealth of advice and support for older people living independently — their helpline is 0800 678 1602

Staying Connected

Social isolation is one of the most significant health risks facing older people living alone or as a couple. The community hub and social life of a good residential park is a genuine protective factor against isolation — and it is one of the most compelling reasons to choose park home living in later life. At Redlands Park, the community hub ensures that no resident need spend their day without company or conversation unless they choose to.

Chapter 19 — Safety and Security on the Park

Feeling safe in your home is fundamental to wellbeing, and residential parks generally offer a very good standard of security. This chapter covers the key aspects of safety on the park.

Home Security

Most residential parks are either gated or have a managed entrance, which provides a natural level of security. Within that, standard home security measures apply:

• Fit good quality locks on all doors and windows

• Consider a simple alarm system — many insurance policies offer discounts for alarmed properties

• Use timer switches for lights when you are away

• Let a trusted neighbour know if you are going to be absent for more than a day or two — at Redlands Park this is second nature, because we all look out for one another

Fire Safety

Fire safety is particularly important in park homes because the construction materials, while perfectly safe in normal circumstances, can mean that a fire spreads more quickly than in a brick-built property. Essential measures include:

• Smoke alarms — fit them in every room and test them monthly. Replace batteries annually

• Carbon monoxide detector — essential if you have gas appliances or an open fire

• A fire extinguisher — keep one in the kitchen

• An escape plan — know your exits and make sure they are never blocked

The Defibrillator at Redlands Park

As we mentioned in Chapter 14, Redlands Park is proud to have the only defibrillator in the local area. This device is mounted in an accessible communal location and is available to anyone who needs it in a cardiac emergency — residents, visitors, and passers-by alike.

A defibrillator is simple to use — modern AEDs talk you through every step with clear voice instructions. You do not need medical training to use one effectively. If your park does not have one, please raise it with your Residents’ Committee as a matter of urgency.

Emergency Procedures

Make sure you know:

• The address of your park (for giving to emergency services)

• The location of the nearest hospital emergency department

• The location of the nearest urgent treatment centre

• Your GP surgery’s out-of-hours number

• The park management’s emergency contact number

Keep these details written clearly and kept somewhere easily accessible — not just stored in a phone that might run out of battery in an emergency.

Chapter 20 — Your Rights if Things Go Wrong

Even on the best-managed parks, things occasionally go wrong. Knowing how to respond effectively, calmly and through the right channels is the key to resolving problems without unnecessary stress.

Step 1 — Keep Records

From the moment a problem arises, keep a written record. Note the date, what the problem is, who you spoke to and what was said. Follow up any verbal conversation with a brief letter or email — “Further to our conversation today, I am writing to confirm…” This creates a paper trail that will be invaluable if the matter escalates.

Step 2 — Raise It With the Park Operator

The first formal step is to raise the matter in writing with the park operator or site manager. Be clear about what the problem is, what you are asking them to do about it, and by when you expect a response. Keep your tone calm and factual.

Step 3 — Involve the Residents’ Committee

If the park operator does not respond satisfactorily, involve your Residents’ Committee. A concern raised collectively carries far more weight than an individual complaint, and the committee may have established relationships with park management that facilitate quicker resolution.

Step 4 — Contact the Local Council

If the matter involves a breach of the site licence — for example a failure to maintain communal areas, or a safety issue — report it to your local council’s licensing or environmental health department. The council has enforcement powers and can require the park operator to rectify the breach.

Step 5 — The First-tier Tribunal

For disputes about pitch fees, site rules or the written agreement, the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in England provides a free and independent resolution service. Applications are straightforward and the tribunal’s staff can guide you through the process.

Step 6 — Seek Legal Advice

For serious matters — unlawful eviction, harassment, or significant breach of the written agreement — seek legal advice promptly. IPHAS (the Independent Park Home Advisory Service) offers free advice to park home residents, and Citizens Advice can also help.

Chapter 21 — Useful Contacts and Resources

Keep this list somewhere accessible — a copy on the fridge door is not a bad idea.

Government and Legal

• GOV.UK Park Homes guidance: www.gov.uk (search “park homes”)

• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber): 0300 123 1024

• Citizens Advice Bureau: 0800 144 8848

Industry Bodies

• NCC (National Caravan Council): www.thencc.org.uk

• IPHAS (Independent Park Home Advisory Service): www.iphas.co.uk

• British Holiday & Home Parks Association: www.bhhpa.org.uk

Health and Wellbeing

• Age UK Helpline: 0800 678 1602 (free, 8am–7pm daily)

• NHS 111: Call 111 (24 hours)

• British Heart Foundation (defibrillator funding): www.bhf.org.uk

Community Funding

• National Lottery Community Fund: www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

• Local council community grants: contact your local council directly

Chapter 22 — A Personal Foreword From the Authors

(This appears at the front of the published ebook — placed here at the end for reference)

See the revised Personal Foreword at the beginning of this document — from Terry, Elizabeth and Sandra.

THE END.