Eviction Rules for Caravan and Mobile Home Renters in Wales

If you rent a caravan or mobile home in Wales, you might wonder if and how you can be evicted. It's a unique living situation compared to renting a house or flat, but clear legal protections apply. This guide breaks down your rights, what landlords can and cannot do, and the official steps involved if eviction is attempted in Wales.

Your Legal Status as a Caravan or Mobile Home Renter

Caravan and mobile home renters typically occupy pitches on sites licensed under the Mobile Homes Act 1983 or may be covered by parts of the Housing Act. The type of agreement you have affects your protection. Those with a ‘Written Statement’ under the Mobile Homes Act have strong rights, but short-stay holiday renters or those without a formal agreement may have fewer protections.

Key Tenancy Legislation in Wales

• Mobile Homes Act 1983 – Covers security of tenure and the eviction process for residents of protected sites
• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – Updated the legal landscape for renters in Wales, but for most caravan and mobile home situations, the Mobile Homes Act is key

Be sure to check your pitch agreement for which law applies.

When Can You Be Evicted from a Caravan or Mobile Home?

You can only be evicted in specific circumstances, including:

• Your landlord has a legal reason ("ground") for eviction, such as persistent late rent, breach of site rules, or unauthorised alterations
• The correct written notice is given to you
• An order for possession is granted by a court or tribunal (not just at your landlord's say-so)

Most tenants on protected sites cannot simply be evicted without a formal process.

Notice and Eviction Process

• Your landlord must serve you a 'Notice to Quit' in writing — for residents covered by the Mobile Homes Act, this must give you at least 28 days' notice.
• If you do not leave, your landlord must apply to the county court for a possession order. They cannot remove you themselves.
• The court will decide if the eviction is fair and legal.
• If the court grants possession, only then can bailiffs lawfully remove you.

Official Forms and Practical Steps

It's important to know the forms involved and how they affect you as a renter:

• Notice to Quit (No specific form number): Used by the park owner to give you written notice. Must state the eviction ground and give at least 28 days’ notice. If you receive this, check the reasons and your agreement carefully. There is no standard government template, but your notice must be in writing and explain the legal grounds. If unsure, always seek advice from a support service.
• Claim for Possession (Form N5): If you do not leave after the notice period, the park owner can apply to the county court with Form N5 Claim for Possession. You will be given court papers and allowed to respond, either in writing or at a hearing.

Practical Example: If you miss several months of pitch fees and do not resolve the issue after a written Notice to Quit, you might receive court papers with Form N5. You should respond and can attend the court hearing to explain your side.

If You Believe Your Eviction Is Unlawful

It is a criminal offence for a site owner to force you out without following this process (known as unlawful eviction or harassment). If this happens, you can:

• Contact your local council’s housing team
• Report the issue to the police if force or harassment is involved
• File a complaint or seek an injunction

Which Tribunal or Court Handles Disputes?

In Wales, disputes relating to caravan and mobile home agreements are generally handled by the County Court. Some issues, such as site licensing, may involve local authorities as well.

FAQ: Caravan and Mobile Home Eviction in Wales

1. Can my landlord evict me without notice from a caravan site in Wales? No. The site owner must give you a written notice with at least 28 days' warning and can only evict you with a court order, not by force.
2. What should I do if I receive a Notice to Quit? Read the notice carefully to understand the grounds for eviction. You have the right to challenge it, seek advice from a support service, and stay until the court has decided.
3. Does the Protection from Eviction Act 1977 apply to mobile home dwellers? Some protections apply, but most evictions are governed primarily by the Mobile Homes Act 1983 for permanent residents on licensed sites.
4. Can I challenge an eviction in court? Yes. You can respond to the Form N5 and attend the county court hearing to explain your side and ask the judge to review the reasons for eviction.
5. Who can help me if I’m facing eviction from a caravan or mobile home in Wales? Your local council, Shelter Cymru, and the council’s Housing Standards team are all valuable sources of advice and support.

Key Takeaways for Caravan and Mobile Home Renters in Wales

• Eviction must follow a formal process, including proper written notice and a court order.
• If your landlord skips this legal process, you have protection against unlawful eviction.
• Seek immediate support if you receive a Notice to Quit or face harassment — your rights are protected by law.

Renters on licensed caravan sites in Wales enjoy significant legal protections — but taking action quickly if you’re at risk can help secure the best outcome.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• GOV.UK – Caravan Site Licences and Regulations
• Shelter Cymru – Mobile Homes and Caravans Advice
• County Court – Where eviction claims are heard
• Find your local council housing department

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1. Mobile Homes Act 1983
2. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
3. Protection from Eviction Act 1977
4. Form N5 Claim for Possession

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