Finding insurance for static caravans

Finding appropriate insurance for static caravans isn’t necessarily difficult but it may be made a little more so by the actions of some site owners who may try and insist that you take their insurance cover. But more about that shortly!

First of all, what defines a static caravan?

Definition of a static caravan

Exact definitions may vary by insurance provider and there’s no substitute for checking.

However, for clarity they typically are:

• caravans that although on wheels, are typically anchored and secured into a single location on a single site (they may be raised off-wheels and that may be a requirement with some policies);
• occupied occasionally through the year for holiday or holiday-rental purposes.

When is a static not a static

If you start to occupy your caravan permanently as your main home or wish to rent it out for extended periods, you may automatically invalidate your existing caravan insurance.

It is typically highly advisable to seek insurance advice before contemplating any such move. You may also need to consider local council byelaws as these differ between caravans used for holiday purposes and those occupied for extended periods.

In such circumstances, it may make sense not to seek a static caravan insurance quote, as that will not provide the cover you need.

Site owners’ policies

It is possible that some site owners may try to pressurise you into purchasing their insurance for static caravans. However, in most cases, you are free to choose your own static home insurance.

You are entitled to search for the insurance that is most appropriate to your requirements and if you are being told that you must take a specific policy, this may be infringing upon your ability to do so.

In practice, purchasing your own insurance for static caravans may provide more suitable cover and be more cost-effective.

Administration charges

Some site owners may also look to charge an additional administration fee if you use your own insurance.

However, it might be worth keeping in mind that having your own static caravans policy and paying the site owners’ admin fee may still be more cost-effective than purchasing their caravan insurance in total.

Static caravan insurance – some tips

When you’re looking for a static caravan insurance quote, remember that some characteristics of statics may be worth keeping in mind:

• you may have a relatively high level of fixtures, fittings and contents that need to be protected;
• some providers may offer discounts if your caravan is parked on an approved and secure site;
• you may be obliged to drain down water systems when the caravan is not in use;
• you may be able to obtain discounts if you use additional security locks and alarms etc.

Looking around

Looking around for insurance for static caravans may be important if you’re to find those suitable deals and using our service can show you some options. And remember, it is not generally obligatory to take the site owner’s cover, so by shopping around, you could save yourself some money!