Published: 4th February, 2025
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Thinking of buying a holiday lodge?
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re seriously considering (or already in the process of) buying your dream holiday lodge. That’s exciting! But before you take the plunge, there are a few important things to keep in mind to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Here are 10 key things to consider before you sign on the dotted line:
A holiday lodge is exactly that – for holidays. It can’t be used as your main home. If this rule is broken, the park operator could terminate your agreement. Always double-check the terms so you know exactly what’s allowed.
Once you’ve found the perfect lodge, you’ll likely be asked for a deposit. Before handing over any money, make sure you understand the terms. Is it refundable? If not, why? Ask questions now to avoid surprises later!
Buying a lodge isn’t like buying a house – you’re purchasing the right to place it on a specific plot at the park under a particular agreement. The details of that agreement matter, so getting advice from a specialist lawyer is a smart move.
There are different types of agreements – some are short-term licences, while others are long leases registered with the Land Registry. Check the length of the agreement (these can range from 15 to 125 years) and be sure you understand what the agreement means for you.
It’s not just about the purchase price! You’ll need to budget for site fees, maintenance, and any other charges the park might impose. It’s important to understand how these fees can increase over time. A specialist lawyer can flag any tricky or unusual clauses, so you know exactly what to expect.
Thinking of renting out your lodge when you’re not using it? Some parks allow this, but there are often rules on how it must be done. Check for any fees, restrictions, or specific agreements that apply to subletting at that park.
At some point, you might want to sell your lodge. Does the park operator have the first right to buy it? Can you sell it freely on the open market? These details should be clear in your agreement from the start.
Just like a house, it’s worth having a surveyor check things over – from the positioning of the lodge to its utility connections. A qualified specialist can spot potential issues before they become expensive headaches.
Does your lodge come with a warranty? If so, what does it cover and for how long? Some activities, like subletting, might even void your warranty, so it’s worth knowing the details upfront.
A park operator who’s a member of the National Caravan Council (NCC) or the British Holiday & Home Parks Association (BHHPA) follows an industry code of conduct. It’s always good to check if your chosen park is part of one of these groups.
Buying a holiday lodge is a big decision, and doing your homework can save you a lot of stress. Getting the right legal advice ensures your experience is smooth, enjoyable, and free of nasty surprises.
Courtesy: Ibraheem Dulmeer at Holiday Park Law
Please note that this article serves as a brief overview and should not be considered comprehensive. If you would like to understand how Ibraheem can help, use the contact information provided above.
Ibraheem Dulmeer © 2025
