Residential park home or holiday home: What's the difference, and which is right for me?

The key differences

The two main differences between what is classified as a holiday home and a residential park home are the regulations relating to build standards on the property, and the maximum length of time in which you can inhabit the dwelling annually.

It may sound simple but one key thing is that residential park homes and residential lodges are built to 'residential standards' - meaning they are generally better insulated, more durable and built to last much longer than static caravan holiday homes.

Park home estates also nearly always come with a 12 month license, meaning owners can live there all year round and are free to sell any other properties they may own, which crucially frees up money locked in to a traditional 'bricks and mortar' home.

Static caravans, chalets and lodges which are sold as 'holiday homes' are still built to very high UK standards, but are not generally designed for year-round use and will not last for as many years as a park home unit built to 'residential' standards.

As you may have already guessed, lodges can sometimes blur the line between what is considered a park home and a holiday home as they can be built to either 'residential' or 'holiday home' standards and regulations. This obviously makes it even more important to check the building type and park license if you decide to purchase a lodge.

Another thing to remember is that park home specific insurance differs slightly to a standard house-hold policy and takes into account the different risks and requirements. Specialist insurance is also available for static caravan holiday homes, so be sure to do a little research and get advice from a specialist insurance broker - whichever you decide to go for.

Which is right for you?

If you are looking for a way to free up the capital locked into your home, or are retired and want more money to live comfortably and enjoy yourself, then a park home is a fantastic way to do this. Park homes also offers bungalow style living at a fraction of the cost, and on what are generally very safe and close-knit communities.

However, one key distinction between a park home and a normal bricks and mortar home is that on most park home estates you are purchasing the building itself outright, but the land it stands on and the concrete base as a long term lease. You do not own the land itself and will have to pay ground rent to the park owner whilst living on the park.

If on the other hand you're looking for a 'home away from home', or simply somewhere to spend your holidays, then a holiday home might be the right choice for you.

With hundreds of holiday parks up and down the country offering everything from lively family based fun to quiet idyllic countryside retreats, and prices to suit most pockets, UK holiday homes are a fantastic way to enjoy your spare time. Whether it's a quick weekend away or long summer holiday, you know that there are no flights, tickets, hotels or transfers to worry about - and the only thing you need to do when you arrive is put the kettle on and relax.