15 May 2025
Purchasing a park home can be an exciting yet unknown process for many. To help you we’ve compiled a list of questions people commonly ask before buying a park home.
Do you pay council tax on a park home?
Yes, park homeowners are required to pay council tax. The amount you pay will depend on your local authority and the council tax band your park home falls into. Park homes are typically in lower council tax bands compared to traditional houses, which may mean you pay less annually.
Are park homes freehold or leasehold?
The answer is neither freehold nor leasehold. Instead, they operate under a unique system governed by a Written Statement. A Written Statement is an important document between the park and the homeowner that sets out the terms in which you will be entitled to keep your park home on the park.
Do park homes need an EPC?
Although not a requirement of the residential park home build standard BS 3632, Omar, as a member of the National Caravan Council (NCC), provides Energy Efficiency Calculations for all homes. This allows buyers to compare the energy efficiency of different models, much like the Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) used for traditional houses.
Do you pay stamp duty on a park home?
No, unlike buying traditional properties, park homes are exempt from stamp duty. Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) applies to land transactions – when you buy a park home on a park, you are not actually buying the land, you are entering into an agreement to reside on the plot.
Do you need a solicitor to buy a park home?
While not legally required, it is advisable to use a solicitor when buying a park home. A solicitor experienced in park home transactions can help you understand the license agreement, check the park owner’s credentials, and ensure all necessary paperwork is in order. This can provide peace of mind and protect your interests throughout the purchase process.
Can I live in a park home all year round?
Yes, park home manufacturers who are members of the NCC (National Caravan Council), participate in a self-certification scheme which ensures conformity to BS 3632, the residential standard for park homes. Park homes built to this standard are designed to last at least 50 years, are energy efficient and come with a 10-year GoldShield structural warranty.
If you’re planning on the park home being your main residence, you will need to make sure that the park has a full residential licence. You can do this by contacting the local council who will have issued the licence to the park.
Buying a park home can be an exciting and affordable way to downsize or enjoy a more leisurely lifestyle. By understanding these key aspects of park home ownership and getting answers to your questions, you can make a well-informed decision and find the perfect park and park home for your needs.
If you are looking to start your Omar journey, see our current park homes for sale.