Understanding the Difference Between Residential Park Homes and Holiday Homes
When it comes to residential park homes vs holiday homes, many people are unsure about the difference. At Wyldecrest, we are proud to offer both options, each designed for a different lifestyle. While they may look similar from the outside, their purpose, construction standards, and legal rights are quite distinct. Understanding these differences can help you make the right choice for your needs.
Different Homes for Different Purposes
Residential park homes are designed for permanent living and built to the British Standard BS 3632. This ensures that they meet not only high levels of insulation, safety, and energy efficiency, much like a traditional bungalow. They are ideal for people looking to downsize or enjoy a peaceful, long-term lifestyle within a friendly community.
Holiday homes, including caravans and lodges, are intended for short-term leisure stays. They are perfect for those who want a second home for holidays or weekend breaks. However, because they are not built to BS 3632 standards, they are not suitable for full-time living throughout the year.
Legal Protections and Licensing
Residential park homes fall under the Mobile Homes Act (1983 and 2013), which provides strong legal protections for homeowners. These include security of tenure, the right to sell your home, and inheritance rights, ensuring peace of mind for long-term residents.
Holiday homes operate under a site licence for recreational use. These licences usually limit how long you can stay each year and do not offer the same legal rights as a residential home. This is why it’s important to check that a park has the correct residential licence before moving in permanently.
Council Tax, Fees and Costs
Owners of residential park homes pay council tax, usually in the lowest band (Band A), as well as site fees that contribute to the maintenance and running of the park.
Holiday home owners pay pitch or site fees but are generally not liable for council tax. Their costs depend on the length of their occupancy season and the park’s specific licence terms.
Why Choose a Wyldecrest Residential Park?
Our residential parks are fully licensed for permanent living and built to comply with BS 3632 standards. When you buy a Wyldecrest home, you’re not just purchasing a property; you’re becoming part of a community designed for comfort, quality, and long-term peace of mind.
We ensure all contracts and documents are transparent, so you know exactly what you’re buying and what it includes. As an ISO 9001 certified company, we are committed to high standards of quality and ethical practices across every one of our parks.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Residential Park Homes | Holiday Homes |
| Purpose | Permanent residence | Short-term leisure use |
| Construction | Built to BS 3632 | Recreational standards |
| Legal Rights | Protected by Mobile Homes Act | No tenure protections |
| Taxes & Fees | Council tax + site fees | Site fees only |
| Occupancy | Year-round living | Seasonal or limited stay |
Final Thoughts
Both residential park homes and holiday homes offer unique benefits, depending on the lifestyle you’re looking for. Holiday homes are wonderful for relaxation and family getaways, while residential park homes provide a secure and affordable long-term living solution.
If you’re considering moving into a residential park home or simply want to understand your options better, our friendly team at Wyldecrest is always happy to help you make an informed decision. You can reach out to our team by calling 0330 133 7300, by texting HOME to 82228 or by emailing us at enquiry@wyldecrestparks.com Â
In the meantime, why not read through our FAQ’s to answer any burning questions you may have?
You can read our FAQ’s here.
