How Much Does It Really Cost to Own a Static Caravan? A Full Breakdown

If you’re thinking about buying a static caravan, understanding the total cost of ownership is just as important as choosing the right model or park. While the upfront purchase price might seem manageable, there are several ongoing costs that can catch new owners off guard if they’re not prepared. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down every cost involved with owning a static caravan so you can make a confident, informed decision.

1. The Initial Purchase Price

This is the biggest one-off cost, and it varies significantly depending on whether you buy new or pre-owned:

• New static caravans: £30,000 to £100,000+, depending on size, features, and brand.

• Pre-owned caravans: £10,000 to £90,000+, with variables including age, condition, and location.

Don’t forget to check whether the purchase price includes siting, connection to utilities, and extras like decking or steps.

2. Pitch Fees (Site Fees)

Pitch fees cover the cost of renting a plot on the holiday park. They vary depending on location, park facilities, pitch size, and views.

• Typical range: £2,000 to £7,000+ per year

• Premium parks or seafront/lakefront pitches: £10,000+

Ask what's included in the pitch fee: some parks bundle in things like water and waste disposal, others don't.

3. Utility Bills

You’ll need to cover the cost of your gas, electricity, and water usage.

• Gas: Supplied via bottles or piped mains. Budget £200–£500 annually.

• Electricity: Metered on most parks. Typical usage costs £200–£600/year.

• Water & Sewerage: Either included in pitch fees or charged separately. Approx. £100–£300/year.

  
  

4. Insurance

Static caravan insurance is vital. It protects your holiday home from theft, fire, flooding, and damage.

• Typical premium: £200 to £600 per year, depending on location, value, and cover level

• Some parks require you to use a preferred insurer or meet specific policy requirements.

  
  

5. Maintenance & Upkeep

Just like a regular home, a static caravan needs ongoing care:

• Annual maintenance: Cleaning gutters, checking seals, and boiler servicing. £100–£300/year.

• General wear and tear: Furniture, appliances, and exterior cladding.

• Winterisation: If your park closes over winter, you may need to drain down your caravan (£75–£150).

6. Safety Checks

Many parks require annual gas safety certificates or periodic electrical inspections.

• Gas safety certificate: £70–£110 per year

• Electrical testing (EICR): Every 3-5 years, around £150–£300

7. Optional Extras

You might want to personalise or enhance your holiday home. Common extras include:

• Decking or patio installation: £2,000 to £10,000+

• Wi-Fi: Setup fees and monthly charges

• TV licence: Needed if you watch live TV or BBC iPlayer

• Hot tubs or outdoor furniture: Varies depending on your taste

8. Holiday Park Extras & Memberships

Some parks charge additional fees for access to leisure facilities or entertainment:

• Clubhouse or pool memberships: £100–£500/year

• Seasonal event passes: Optional but can add up

9. Depreciation

Unlike traditional homes, static caravans lose value over time. Expect:

• 10–40% depreciation per year for new caravans in the early years

• Pre-owned units depreciate more slowly but still lose value

This is important to consider if you’re planning to sell or upgrade in the future.

10. Subletting Costs (Optional)

Some owners choose to offset running costs by renting their caravan out. However, this may come with its own costs:

• Commission to the park: 10–30% of your rental income

• Cleaning and laundry services: £30–£75 per changeover

• Additional insurance cover: For guest use

Check your park’s rules on subletting, as not all allow it.

11. Transport & Delivery (if applicable)

If your caravan is being relocated to a new site:

• Transport costs: £1,000 to £5,000+, depending on distance

• Siting & connection: Usually £500–£2,000

Summary Table of Annual Costs to Own a Static (Example for Mid-Range Caravan)

Expense	Estimated Annual Cost
Pitch Fees	£4,000
Gas, Electricity, Water	£900
Insurance	£300
Maintenance & Repairs	£200
Safety Checks	£100
Total	£5,500/year

These are ballpark figures and can vary widely depending on the park and usage.

Final Thoughts

Owning a static caravan can offer fantastic lifestyle benefits, but it's important to go in with your eyes open. The total cost of owning a static caravan stretches well beyond the sticker price. By understanding and planning for pitch fees, utilities, maintenance, and other running costs, you can avoid unwelcome surprises and enjoy your holiday home to the fullest. The British Holiday & Home Parks Association offer some great advice on lots of topics.

At Your Leisure is here to guide you through every step of the static caravan journey. Whether you're comparing models, researching parks, or budgeting for ownership, our independent reviews and resources are designed to help you buy with confidence.

Looking for your perfect static caravan? Check out our latest video reviews and park guides to help make the right choice.