Renting a mobile home

You could be a licensee or a tenant if you rent a mobile home.

If you have a licence

Most people who rent a mobile home, such as a static caravan, have a licence to occupy rather than a tenancy.

How long you can stay, your landlord's responsibilities and how much notice you'll get will mainly depend on what it says in your contract.

If you don’t have a written agreement, you will still have some protection against eviction.

If you have a tenancy

Some people who rent a mobile home are tenants.

You can only have a tenancy if your mobile home is classed as ‘a dwelling house’.

This might apply if it is:

• your home

• static and not able to be moved, even in two parts

• connected to mains supplies of electricity and water

If you’re a tenant, your legal rights depend on the type of tenancy you have.

Eviction from a mobile home

You are entitled to at least 4 weeks’ notice regardless of if you’re a tenant or licensee.

Your landlord must go to court and get a possession order to evict you from your home.

You may be entitled to more notice and have additional protection from eviction if you have a tenancy.

Landlord harassment and illegal eviction

It’s illegal for your landlord to harass you or force you to leave your mobile home.

Harassment can include if your landlord:

• cuts off your gas, electricity or water

• is abusive or violent

• enters your home without your permission

There are steps you can take to deal with landlord harassment. The council can help if you’re illegally evicted.

Repairs and conditions in mobile homes

Licensees

Your landlord is only responsible for repairs in your mobile home that are specified in your contract.

Tenants

Your landlord is responsible for most repairs in your mobile home.

This usually includes:

• heating and hot water

• the roof and walls of your mobile home

• sinks, toilets, pipes and drains

Report repairs in writing to your landlord as soon as possible.

Claiming benefits for a mobile home

You can claim housing benefit or housing costs under universal credit if you have a low income or receive other benefits. It can be used to pay your rent or site fees.

Still need advice?