What Is a Park House?

What Is a Park House?

In the varied world of UK property, the term “park house” can cause confusion, particularly for those unfamiliar with this specialised type of home. While it may sound like a large residential dwelling near a park, a park house typically refers to a form of prefabricated home located on a dedicated residential park site. Also known as a park home or mobile home, a park house offers a unique way of living that appeals to downsizers, retirees and those seeking a simpler, low maintenance lifestyle.

Park houses have gained popularity in recent years due to their affordability, community living benefits and the peaceful surroundings often associated with residential park developments. But living in a park house comes with its own legal framework, ownership conditions and planning considerations. This article explains what a park house is, how it differs from conventional housing, and what to expect when buying or living in one.

Defining a Park House

A park house is a type of prefabricated, single storey home built to specific standards and sited on private land known as a residential park. Although often referred to as mobile homes, modern park houses are permanent structures, designed for full time residential use and built to the British Standard BS 3632. They are constructed off site and then delivered and installed on prepared plots with utility connections, driveways and gardens.

Park houses typically resemble bungalows in appearance, with pitched roofs, double glazing and central heating. They are fully self contained, with kitchens, bathrooms and living areas laid out for comfortable everyday living. Despite being classed legally as caravans under UK law, they offer many of the comforts and features found in traditional brick and mortar homes.

These properties are usually sold under a licence agreement rather than freehold or leasehold title. Buyers purchase the home itself, while paying a ground rent or pitch fee for the use of the land. Residential park sites are often age restricted and governed by site rules that foster a quiet, secure environment.

How a Park House Differs from a Conventional Home

One of the main differences between a park house and a traditional residential property lies in the legal ownership structure. With a conventional house, you typically own the land and the building. With a park house, you own the structure but occupy the land under a pitch agreement, which is regulated by the Mobile Homes Act 1983.

Park houses are not registered with HM Land Registry in the same way as freehold or leasehold properties. Instead, ownership is recorded by the site operator, and transactions are often managed without the involvement of a conveyancer. While the process is usually quicker, buyers must carry out thorough checks to ensure the site has the correct residential licence and that the agreement includes fair terms.

Another key difference is in planning status. Park homes can only be sited on licensed parks with planning permission for year round residential use. Holiday parks or sites with seasonal restrictions cannot be used for permanent living, even if the homes look similar.

Advantages of Living in a Park House

For many buyers, the appeal of a park house lies in its simplicity, affordability and sense of community. These homes are often significantly cheaper than traditional houses in the same area, making them a popular option for those releasing equity or downsizing in retirement. Modern park homes are well insulated, energy efficient and easy to maintain, reducing running costs and household tasks.

Most residential parks cater to a specific demographic, such as over fifties or over sixties. This creates a quiet and neighbourly atmosphere, with shared facilities and a strong sense of mutual support. Many sites offer landscaped grounds, on site management and secure gated entrances.

Park houses are also often located in picturesque rural or coastal settings, offering access to green space and countryside without the demands of a large garden or remote living. For those seeking peace and privacy without isolation, this balance can be ideal.

Planning Permission and Site Licensing

Park houses must be sited on land with the correct planning permission and a residential site licence issued by the local council. These licences ensure that the site meets standards for layout, infrastructure, spacing, safety and amenities. It is illegal to live permanently in a park house located on a site without the appropriate residential permissions.

Buyers should always check that the park has a full residential licence and is registered with a recognised trade body such as the British Holiday and Home Parks Association. This protects your rights and ensures that the site is managed to a consistent standard.

Although the homes themselves do not require individual planning permission once sited on a licensed park, alterations or extensions may need approval from the park owner or local authority.

Costs and Fees Associated with Park Houses

While park houses are generally more affordable to buy than traditional homes, there are ongoing costs to consider. These include pitch fees, which are charged monthly and cover the use of the land and site services. Pitch fees can vary widely depending on location and facilities but must be reviewed and adjusted in line with statutory guidelines.

Council tax is payable on park houses, typically at the lowest band. Utilities such as gas, electricity and water may be billed by the site owner or arranged directly with suppliers. Some parks also charge for maintenance, landscaping or security features.

When selling a park house, the site owner is entitled to a commission fee, usually up to ten percent of the sale price. This fee is deducted from the sale proceeds and must be factored into your financial planning if you intend to move in the future.

Legal Protections and Buyer Considerations

The Mobile Homes Act 1983 provides legal protection to residents living in park houses on licensed residential sites. It gives buyers the right to occupy the pitch indefinitely, subject to compliance with site rules and payment of fees. The act also limits the ability of site owners to terminate agreements and sets out procedures for resolving disputes.

Buyers should ensure that they receive a written statement outlining the terms of the agreement, including pitch fees, site rules and any restrictions on occupancy or alterations. It is also advisable to instruct a solicitor or adviser with experience in park home transactions, as the process differs significantly from standard residential purchases.

Before committing to a purchase, visit the site at different times of day, speak to existing residents and understand the lifestyle and rules in place. While many people enjoy the security and simplicity of park house living, it may not suit those seeking long term capital growth or more flexibility in how they use their home.

Resale Value and Market Demand

Park houses typically do not appreciate in value in the same way as traditional homes. While well maintained homes in popular parks can hold their value, the market is more limited and influenced by the reputation and management of the site. Buyers should consider their long term plans and understand that resale potential may be restricted compared to standard properties.

Despite this, the demand for high quality park homes in sought after locations remains strong, especially among older buyers looking for low cost, low maintenance alternatives to conventional housing. The key to securing a successful sale is ensuring the home is well presented, the site is reputable and the pitch agreement is up to date.