5 Reasons to Store your Caravan with CaSSOA

1) Reduced Risk of Theft 
It’s been statistically proven that a caravan stored at a CaSSOA approved site is less likely to be stolen or suffer damage by vandals. Insurance claim data shows that caravans and motorhomes are far more vulnerable to theft then they’re kept at home, so it makes sense to store your vehicle at a dedicated storage site.

2) All sites have been surveyed 

All CaSSOA sites are required to undergo a comprehensive site survey on a regular basis. That way, we can be sure that the security and site facilities meet our required standards for Bronze, Silver or Gold accreditation.

3) Reduced insurance premium

Because of our commitment to reducing caravan theft, many insurance companies will offer a discount on your caravan insurance premium if you store at a CaSSOA approved storage site. You could save up to 25%.

4) Over 400 locations across the country

There are over 400 CaSSOA accredited caravan storage sites across the country so there’s sure to be one near to you. You can search for a CaSSOA site using our site finder. Search by postcode, or by town or county.

5) On-Site Facilities

Not only can you get peace of mind that your caravan is being kept safe and secure, but if you store on a CaSSOA caravan storage site, you’re likely to be able to access additional facilities like caravan servicing, valeting and tyre pressure checking.


With approved storage sites nationwide, we have a wide range of accredited caravan storage sites to choose from, so you won’t have to travel far to find your nearest site. Click here to find your nearest CaSSOA approved leisure vehicle storage site.

TOP TIPS FOR CARAVAN STORAGE SITE OWNERS - PART 1

There are so many things to consider when setting up a caravan storage business. Here’s our rundown of the most important elements to bear in mind.

Planning Permission

First things first. You’ll need to make sure you have the necessary planning permission in place. In the majority of cases planning permission for change of use will be required, and this will usually be “B8 - Storage and Distribution” to include outside storage.

Plot Spacing

As a rough guide, each caravan should be given around 30 square metres of space. CaSSOA recommends that the space between each caravan (hitch post to hitch post) is 3.5 metres.

You will need to decide whether you as the site owner will be moving caravans in and out of spaces, or whether you will allow your customers to do this themselves.

You’ll need to consider the following threats:

•          Criminal Damage
•      Theft
•          Fire
•          Flood
•          Falling Trees
•          Storm Damage
•          Vermin

Security

Here are the key areas of security you’ll need to look at:

• Perimeter Protection – to prevent access and secure an area, we recommend that fencing is over 3m in height.

• Access Control should:
• Deny access
• Record access
• Have anti-pass back control that prevents tailgating.
• Activate CCTV (if in use)
• CCTV
• Should you decide to use CCTV, signs should be prominently displayed warning that CCTV is in operation.
• Where personal data is processed, The Data Protection Act 1998 requires that CCTV systems are registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office.
• Security Lighting should: 
• Complement physical and electronic security features.
• Illuminate an intruder
• Illuminate protected premises.
• Operate from dusk to dawn
• Be mounted out of reach of intruders and protected.

Fire Protection

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to caravan storage sites and stipulates that a fire risk assessment be carried out, and any recommendations implemented. The site owner can do this.

In part 2, we’ll look at the administration aspects of setting up a caravan storage business.

For more information, please download our Guide to SecureCaravan Storage. 

What is CaSSOA?

We could write a lengthy post describing what CaSSOA is, but why do that when we could give you a video to watch!

Enjoy.

For more information, or to locate a CaSSOA accredited storage site please visit our website www.cassoa.co.uk.

Secure Caravan Storage - Our Survey Process

CaSSOA Accreditation – Our stamp of Approval for Secure Caravan Storage 

All our caravan storage sites have been comprehensively surveyed by an independent surveyor to give you peace of mind that your caravan will be stored safely.

We know how important your caravan is to you, so we take the necessary steps to ensure that our sites are upholding our standards and keeping your vehicle as secure as possible.

CaSSOA offers three levels of accreditation for storage site owners; Bronze, Silver and Gold, with awards based on a number of factors including security features and on-site facilities. Accreditation is based on a mandatory survey which is required every 5 years to ensure that standards are being maintained.

Our experienced risk surveyor will visit each site personally to check site security (perimeter fencing, access control, exit/entry system, CCTV, alarms, fire protection) and on-site facilities. Each category will attract points, and the more points received, the higher the award level attained.

Don’t take the risk of storing your caravan at an uncertified site. CaSSOA sites are committed to maintaining secure storage standards and actively working towards our pledge to reduce caravan theft.

Click here to find a CaSSOA accredited storage site near you and have the assurance that the site has been independently assessed and meets the benchmark standards required for secure storage that stands out from the rest.

Why Choose a CaSSOA Caravan Storage Site?

Why choose a CaSSOA accredited site for your caravan?

Excellent levels of security: A CaSSOA site gives you total peace of mind by minimising security risks to your caravan with features like full perimeter fencing, lockable gates, CCTV and monitored entry and exit of the site.

All our members have achieved their CaSSOA accreditation by way of an individual site survey and have been awarded either Gold, Silver or Bronze status dependent upon the security features in place at the site.

We offer 3 levels of accreditation for storage site owners: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Awards are accredited on a points earned basis, with Gold being the highest award that can be achieved. CaSSOA accreditation is based on the assessment of a number of factors. These include site security (perimeter fencing, access control, exit/entry system, CCTV, alarms, fire protection) and on-site facilities.

Accreditation is based on points, and assessed by an independent risk surveyor. Each category will attract points, and the more points received, the higher the award level attained.

The Bronze accreditation is our entry level award. To achieve a bronze award, the site must meet our minimum security requirements, including perimeter protection and lockable gates. Most sites start here and quickly work their way up with the advice and guidance of our independent appointed surveyor.

The Silver accreditation is a step up in security, as well as having the standard security measures in place, a silver accredited site has enhanced security in place such as CCTV and monitored entry and exit of the site.

The Gold accreditation is the highest award which can be achieved, with these sites providing the highest levels of security. Over 50% of our current members have obtained a Gold accreditation.

Insurance premium discounts: Due to our commitment to reducing caravan thefts, many insurance companies will offer a discounted premium for secure CaSSOA storage. CaSSOA’s parent company, AmTrust Europe Limited, will offer you a discount on your caravan insurance premium of up to 20% for storing your caravan at one of our accredited sites.

UK wide coverage: With over 500 members nationwide, we have a wide range of accredited sites to choose from, so you won’t have to travel far to find your nearest site.

You can find CaSSOA registered sites in your local area using our Find a CaSSOA Site page.

How to Choose a Storage Site for your Caravan

As the summer season is now drawing to a close you may want to start thinking about where you are going to store your caravan or motorhome over the winter. Whilst your driveway is an option, a secure, accredited storage site has many benefits. If you are looking to place your caravan or motorhome on a secure storage site, here are a few points you may want to consider before making a decision:

First Impressions

Never commit to a self-storage facility without seeing the premises first. It could be much different to how it has been described over the phone or on the website. You’ll also be able to take note of whether the site’s location is convenient for you, if the staff are friendly, and if security features are as advertised. You may want to visit a few different storage sites before you make your final decision.

Security

Concerns about security is often the biggest worry for storage site users. When you visit a storage facility it would be prudent to look out for and ask about the following:

CCTV – most storage sites will have cameras, but it is important to know whether they are in operation 24 hours a day and if they’re monitored. It is also important that CCTV cover more than just the entrance.

Access – Take a note of how easy is it to gain access to the facility? Some facilities will have electric gates which require a pin code for access, whilst for others you may be given a key. Alternatively, some storage sites have a manned reception or office which will grant you access.

Pricing

The cheapest storage option may not necessarily be the best option. Saving money may come at the expense of other factors like location or security. It is always worthwhile making sure what the cost includes.

Opening Hours

If you think you may need access to your caravan or motorhome outside normal business hours, you will need to ask whether the site opening times meet your needs. Whilst some storage sites offer 24 hour access, others may only operate during business hours and with reduced hours at weekends.

Site Facilities & Services

You may want to consider whether additional site amenities like vehicle cleaning and repair facilities are available. Some sites are able to offer both indoor and outdoor storage facilities, and pitches can vary from concrete and tarmac to hard standing.

Other points to consider:

• Will you be issued with a contract?
• How flexible is it?
• Do you require insurance to store your caravan/motorhome on the site?
  
• What happens in case of emergency?
• Is there a phone number to call?
• Will you be contacted?

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Preparing your Caravan for Winter

As summer is coming to an end you may be thinking about preparing your caravan for the winter, so that when you’re ready to get back out on the road again next year its ready to go and in full working order.

Whether you’re going to store your caravan in a secure storage facility or on your driveway, there are a number of things you can do to ready your tourer for hibernation.
Body Work

Whether you are plan to use a cover, overwintering wax coating or store you unit indoors, a thorough cleaning of your caravan is vital to help protect your van and also give you the opportunity to inspect the bodywork for any damage that may have occurred.

Make sure that you use ‘caravan friendly’ products which have been specially formulated for use on caravans, and whilst power washers are great for getting rid of tough dirt, be careful that their strength doesn’t damage bodywork and seals. Always ensure that any signs of green or black mould are removed, as leaving over the winter period may result in permanent marking.

DON’T OVERREACH ON LADDERS & TAKE CARE WHEN CLEANING THE ROOF – WHICH MAY NOT APPRECIATE YOUR WEIGHT ON IT!

Tyres

Ideally, tyres shouldn’t be left standing on the same piece of tread for long periods. Think about turning the wheels every two months and make sure tyre pressures are correct at the same time. To shield tyres from sunlight consider using ‘winter wheels’ – clamps that prevent degradation of the rubber, but be aware that these may not meet required criteria for some caravan insurance policies.

Exterior Fittings

• Check any car to caravan connectors (12N, 12S, 13pin) for signs of damage or wear, and wipe electrical contacts with petroleum jelly or water dispersant such as WD-40.
• Any moving mechanical linkages or parts (corner steadies’, rotating screws, etc) will benefit from an application of grease.
• Check and clean any exterior light fittings – remove and wipe the lens and seals before checking any electrical connections and replace if necessary.
• Interiors
• Keep fridge door ajar using latches to prevent mildew build-up.
• Leave spring loaded blinds in the open position – leaving closed for a prolonged length of time may stretch the springs.
• Remove cushions from the caravan and store somewhere dry and well ventilated – or in an upright position, away from caravan walls if leaving in situ. This will help air to circulate and prevent mildew occurring.
• Leave fixed beds in the open position to aid air circulation.
• Wash and vacuum throughout the interior of the caravan. As well as getting everywhere thoroughly clean, you can check to make sure nothing’s been forgotten and left in the back of a cupboard or seat base.
• Use cleaning products designed for caravans as domestic cleaning fluids may cause damage to the materials used in caravans.
• Leave locker and wardrobe doors open, and make sure roof lights and windows are closed.
• Use a water dispersant such as WD-40 or thin oil to coat hinges and protect against rust.

Toilets

• Cassette toilets should be drained and cleaned, and flush as much water as possible through the system and into the cassette waste tank.
• Remove the waste tank, empty and clean it out.
• The valve blade which seals the toilet from the waste tank should be cleaned with a seal lubricant (not petroleum jelly or vegetable oil), before leaving partially open to prevent it sticking shut.

Water Systems

• Fully drain down the water system to protect against frost damage. Even a small amount of water trapped in a tap head can cause expensive damage.
• Open all the taps and remove the shower head
• Open all drain valves and remove drainage plugs (including any external plugs)
• Remove any filters and store in a safe place for sterilising next season
• Run the on-board pump (if you have one) to clear if of water. It is best to check your handbook for more details on this. The external pump can be shaken free of water.
• Drain any portable water containers and allow it to dry out to prevent mould growth.

Electrics

• If you are leaving a battery unit in your caravan make sure that it is isolated from all 12V equipment using its isolation switch or disconnect it. Alternatively, leave all interior electrical items in the ‘off’ position and disconnect any plugs.
• Unfortunately, even when a battery has been disconnected, it will still discharge over time. If possible, remove the battery unit and take it home to charge periodically.
• If your caravan has a security system or tracker, it will need a source of power which will mean leaving your battery in situ. If this is the case, you will need to charge it onsite or have a replacement to swap over.
• Ideally, you should try to periodically power up your heating system – by hooking your caravan up to a 230V electricity source -throughout the winter. This will not only keep your battery in good condition, but may help to prevent mildew build-up and damp.

Gas

Valves on top of gas cylinders should be closed, or the regulators disconnected from the cylinders. Caps should be fitted over the ends of any open pipework.

If you are putting your caravan into storage you will need to check their gas cylinder policy, as some prohibit the storage of cylinders with your unit.

Ideally, cylinders should be stored in the open air rather than in a shed or garage, as in the event of fire, the fire service will be unaware of their presence. Whether you store the cylinder in the dedicated gas locker of your unit or in the open air, they should be at least two metres from open drains, away from cellar openings and buildings. They should be kept away from heat and ignitable, corrosive, toxic or oxidant materials.

Covering your Caravan
There are two options when it comes to protecting the exterior of your caravan over the winter; a breathable cover or an exterior protector fluid which creates a defensive coating.

Covers should be breathable and soft enough not to damage your bodywork, but tough enough to provide robust protection. When purchasing, look for reinforcements where sharp ends of roof join strips and awning rails will protrude.

Protective waxy coatings are less expensive and will wash off easily after winter, in part due to natural degradation.

In essence, you will get what you pay for with cover protection. From low cost protector fluids to custom made, premium covers, look at your cover as a sacrificial item – covers are cheaper to replace than caravan bodywork.

Top Tips

• Consider getting your caravan serviced prior to hibernation by an industry-recognised service centre, as they are usually less busy during the winter.

• Whether you’re storing your caravan at home or at a storage site, it is well worth returning periodically to let some air circulate by opening windows and roof lights.

• For additional security, even if only to act as a visual deterrent, you may want to fit hitchlocks or wheelclamps. These may also be required by your insurer.

• Prior to any winter preparation work remember to check your caravan handbook for any specific advice, and it may also be worth checking manufacturer advice for any additional equipment you may have had fitted.

It is well worth considering storing your caravan at a secure storage facility. CaSSOA (Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association) represent over 500 accredited storage sites across the UK, all of which are independently assessed for a range of security features including CCTV, perimeter fencing, access control and on-site facilities.

For more information about secure caravan storage please visit www.cassoa.co.uk.

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