Homeowners and tenants could be fined for parking on their own driveway, according to a little-known clause in their contract. Paul Gorry, expert at Auto Trail, the UK’s leading campervan manufacturer, stressed that some property deeds may ban caravans from driveways.
Some properties include clauses that stress caravans should be “kept away” with road users ignoring the rules likely to be at risk of penalties. Local authorities can also introduce specific rules in a blow to owners looking for somewhere to store their caravans over the autumn and winter. Experts stress the rules are just one of many common misconceptions around parking a caravan, which many road users simply aren’t aware of.
Paul said: "There isn’t a specific law that bans parking a caravan on your driveway. In most cases, you can do so as long as it doesn’t cause an obstruction and the caravan is parked carefully and responsibly.
"Property deeds are the first place to check when deciding if you can park a caravan at home.
"Caravan owners could still face a fine or even a court appearance because some properties include clauses in their deeds that prohibit caravans from being kept on the driveway.
"Caravan parking restrictions can also be introduced by local councils. Checking the rules in your area helps avoid fines or enforcement action."
Concerned homeowners can get their property deeds online via the Land Registry. Rules state that anyone can access the deeds for any property, allowing nosy neighbours to check whether everyone is following the rules. Deeds may contain a 'restrictive covenant' imposed by the developer who built the housing estate.
In some situations, rules will be applied to stop the estate becoming unsightly, which could put off future sales. In some circumstances, the covenant will continue - even when the land is passed over to a new owner.
Individuals who are unsure about the rules can get some extra advice by consulting a conveyancing solicitor.
Paul explained: "Even when driveway parking is allowed, owners should think about the impact on those nearby. Parking responsibly and avoiding obstruction is not only courteous but also important for the safety of pedestrians, wheelchair users and other road users."
