Homeowner Advice

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Buying a Caravan: What You Need to Know

2nd June 2023

Whether you are a seasoned camper that has decided to take the leap and buy your first caravan, a caravanning pro, or a complete camping newbie, buying a caravan could be the start of many magical adventures. However, before you take the leap, it helps to do your research. Here’s what you need to know.

There are various options for purchasing a second-hand caravan. You can explore dealerships, caravan parks, or connect directly with owners. Online platforms offer a wide array of choices, including generic auction sites and dedicated vehicle or caravan websites. It's advisable to browse through different sources and compare prices to assess whether the caravan that has captured your attention offers good value when compared to similar models in terms of age, condition, and size.

Optimal Time for Purchase

New caravans are typically introduced in the spring, and avid caravanners may even pre-order the latest models in the preceding autumn. During January and February, owners might be seeking to sell their caravans to make room for newer ones. Similarly, dealerships may be motivated to sell off older inventory. As a result, the best time to secure an advantageous deal is generally between March and May.

Key Considerations

When buying any vehicle second hand it's essential to inquire about certain crucial aspects. These include:

Service History: Obtain details regarding the van's maintenance history, as it provides insights into its overall condition and care.

Damp Report: Dampness poses a significant threat to caravans. Inquire about recent damp reports and thoroughly inspect potential areas where moisture could enter the van, such as windows, seams, and joints.

Tyres: Even if the tyres appear to be in good condition, they require periodic replacement. Inquire about the age of the tyres, and if they are over five years old, factor in the cost of replacements within your budget.

Chassis: Inspect the chassis for signs of rust, and carefully examine the hitch for any damage or corrosion. Test the jockey wheel to ensure smooth raising and lowering.

Stays: Check for rust on the steadies.

Gas: Verify that the gas and electrical systems are fully functional.

Interior: Look for stains and indications of dampness, such as broken latches, damp patches, or a musty smell.

Features: Understand the exceptional aspects of the caravan, such as a high-quality sound system, spacious shower, or heating and what value they bring to you. If you are not planning on using the sleek bathroom, there is no point you paying for it!

Extras: Determine what additional items come with the van, such as motor movers, water barrels, bedding, awnings, and furniture. If these accessories are included, it could result in substantial savings compared to buying them separately.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and request demonstrations to better comprehend how various components and systems operate. If you decide that the caravan meets your expectations, ensure that you receive the handbook, service history, CRIS registration details, and information about warranties and guarantees. If you have identified any defects or weaknesses, use them as negotiation points to potentially lower the price. If there is anything that you are particularly concerned about, speak to a local caravan specialist and ask for advice. Once you have agreed upon a satisfactory price, congratulations! You are now ready to embark on your delightful journey into the world of caravanning.

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Find clear, practical answers to common homeowner advice questions, helping homeowners understand everyday issues, know what checks they can carry out safely, and when it is best to contact a qualified professional.

What home repairs should I never attempt myself?

Gas work - full stop. Any work on gas appliances must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer by law. Structural changes like removing walls, altering roof timbers, or touching anything load-bearing need professional assessment and often Building Regulations sign-off. Electrical work involving the consumer unit or new circuits must meet Part P. And if your property was built before 2000, be aware asbestos may be present - it can only be handled by a licensed specialist.
Which home improvements add the most value to a property?

Improvements that add usable space or modernise the rooms buyers scrutinise most tend to deliver the strongest returns. Loft conversions consistently top the list - adding a bedroom and bathroom can add more value than the work costs in many areas. Kitchen and bathroom updates are next. Open-plan ground-floor extensions connecting to a kitchen-diner have become one of the most sought-after layouts in UK family homes. And energy improvements - insulation, a new boiler, solar panels - are increasingly influencing buyer decisions as running costs become a bigger part of the conversation.
Should I renovate my home or move house?

There's no universal right answer - it depends on your situation. Moving gets you what you want without living through a building site, but stamp duty, estate agent fees, and moving costs can easily add up to tens of thousands of pounds. Renovating lets you stay put and invest in your own property, but comes with disruption and unexpected costs. The most useful comparison: get a clear view of what your home could realistically be worth after the work, and what a move would actually cost end to end. A local estate agent and a builder's quote can give you those two numbers.
What does a home survey actually cover and do I need one when buying?

A survey is an independent assessment of a property's condition carried out by a qualified surveyor - separate from the mortgage valuation, which only tells the lender what the property is worth, not what's wrong with it. A HomeBuyer Report flags visible defects and anything that needs further investigation. A Full Building Survey goes deeper and is worth the extra cost on older, larger, or unusual properties. Given that a house is likely the biggest purchase you'll ever make, skipping the survey to save a few hundred pounds is a false economy - a single missed issue can cost far more to put right.
What should I do before starting any major home improvement project?

Get your paperwork in order before anyone picks up a tool. Check whether you need planning permission or Building Regulations approval. Find out whether a Party Wall Agreement applies. Confirm your home insurance covers you during the works. Get at least three written quotes and make sure the scope of work is clearly agreed in writing with whoever you hire. And have a contingency budget - on almost any renovation, something unexpected comes up. The projects that go smoothly are usually the ones that were properly planned before they started.
What is the difference between freehold and leasehold and why does it matter for home improvements?

If you own the freehold, you own the property and the land it sits on outright - you can generally do what you like subject to planning rules. If you own a leasehold property (common with flats), you own the right to live there for the remaining lease term, but the freeholder owns the building. This matters for home improvements because many leases require you to get the freeholder's written permission before making alterations - sometimes even internal ones. Always check your lease before starting any work, as doing alterations without the required consent can cause problems when you come to sell.

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