Buying guide
Questions to Ask Before Buying a Static Caravan
Park sales teams are friendly, professional and very good at what they do. They are not the people to tell you the whole truth about the deal — that is your job to find out.
These are the questions that reveal the real costs, the real rules and the real risks. Take this list with you to every park visit.
By the team at Best Caravan Parks · Updated August 2026
The short answer
What is the single most important question to ask a park?
“What is the current annual site fee, what formula is used for increases, and is it the same for every pitch?” — because the fee rises every year and it is the biggest ongoing cost of ownership.
How to use these questions
Take this list to every park you visit and ask the questions out loud — get the answers in writing, not just verbally. A reputable park answers every one of them clearly; hesitation, vague answers or “don’t worry about that” are themselves red flags.
Split the list: ask the money and rule questions before you view, so you don’t fall in love with a park that fails the practical checks, and re-confirm everything on the day.
Questions to ask before you buy
What is the current site fee and how is it increased?
Ask for the current fee in writing, the exact increase formula (often inflation-linked plus a percentage), and whether fees differ by pitch tier. This single number drives most of your ongoing cost.
What is the licence period and the closed season?
How long a season do you get — six months, eight months, year-round? When exactly is the park closed, and can you still access your caravan during closure?
What does the price actually include?
Confirm whether siting, connection, first-year fees, decking, furnishing, gas safety checks and extras are included or priced separately. Get the full itemised quote in writing.
What are the park rules on pets, subletting and age limits?
Can you have a dog? Can you rent out the home? What is the maximum age of caravan the park accepts? Rules vary enormously between parks.
What happens when I want to sell?
Ask about resale commission, whether the park brokers the sale, the transfer process, and removal costs. The exit is where many owners lose money — understand it before you enter.
Is the deposit refundable?
Most deposits are not. Confirm the cancellation terms in writing, including what happens if finance falls through or you change your mind.
What happens if the park is sold or changes hands?
Your licence should protect you, but confirm the position on fees and terms if the park is sold to a new operator.
Can I speak to existing owners?
A great question, and one most parks answer more enthusiastically than they should — make sure you chat to owners who have been there a few years, not just happy new buyers.
What are the running and one-off costs beyond the fee?
Insurance, rates, utilities, winterising, maintenance and servicing — plus whether the park charges for storage, decking or annual checks.
What documents should I read before signing?
The full licence, the itemised quote, any finance agreement, and the park’s written rules. Take them away to read at home — never sign on the day.
Before you pay a deposit
Before you buy a caravan or lodge — and before you pay a deposit — speak to an independent expert.
£150 spent on independent advice before you commit could save you thousands later — or stop you making the wrong purchase completely.
Private 45–60 minute video consultation with a retired caravan-industry expert with 30 years’ experience.
Frequently asked questions
Should I ask these questions before or after viewing?+
Is it awkward to ask a park these questions?+
What if a salesperson says “don’t worry about that”?+
Got answers — now want them checked?
A retired industry expert will go through your deal line by line and tell you what’s fair and what isn’t.
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