Communities Secretary Eric Pickles has announced a number of new rights to protect residents from unscrupulous site owners.
The Department for Communities and Local Government said that some dishonest park home operators abuse their position, bullying and intimidating their residents and manipulating the law.
The rights;
– remove site owners from the park home buying and selling process, meaning that residents cannot be forced to, or prevented from, selling their park homes to fill the landlord’s pocket
– it will also be harder to impose unexpected charges or changes of rules
– local authorities will have more power to enforce breaches, making it easier to prosecute a site owner who harasses residents.
Mr Pickles said that the new laws will make underhand tactics a thing of the past.
He also launched a new national helpline, operated by the Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE), which is now available for residents to get advice on their rights when selling or gifting their home.
Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said: ”For many, a park home lifestyle is a peaceful retirement ideal, but it only takes a few dishonest site owners to blight the industry by preying on vulnerable residents and neglecting their duty of care.
“That’s why we’ve now called time on the crooks, giving residents the rights they need and protecting them in law. I would urge any park home resident wanting to know more to call the LEASE helpline from this week, to get the advice they need.”
Housing Minister Mark Prisk said: “For too long, some unscrupulous operators have made residents’ lives a misery, intimidating people and manipulating the rules to turn a quick profit.
"So we’ve closed the loopholes to root out the rogues and ensure that those who run an honest business will flourish.
“We’ve also given councils the power they need to protect the vulnerable, so park home residents who know their rights will be able to enjoy their rural retreats in peace.”
