Mobile homes definitions
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland
The question of whether your home is classed as a 'mobile home' or a 'dwelling house' can have a big impact on your rights.
What is the legal definition of a 'mobile home'?
According to the law, a mobile home is:
- a structure designed to be lived in that can be moved from place to place (for example, by being towed or transported on a trailer or motor vehicle), or
- a motor vehicle designed or adapted to be lived in.
The maximum size of a mobile home is 20 metres long (exclusive of any tow-bar), 6.8 metres wide and 3.05 metres high inside. Be aware that if you add a porch or extension to your mobile home, it may take it outside the legal definition. However, if the attachments can be easily removed, they can be disregarded.
Railway carriages and tents do not count as mobile homes.
What is the legal definition of a 'dwelling house'?
Your mobile home may be classed as a 'dwelling house' rather than a mobile home if it:
- has mains supplies of electricity, water and telephone, and
- is used as a permanent residence, and
- is static and cannot be moved, or
- is so large that it cannot be moved in one piece.
If you rent a mobile home that is classed as a dwelling house you will probably be a tenant rather than a licensee. This gives you more rights.
