CaSSOA Member Spotlight - The Dorset Hideaway

We’d like to introduce you to one of our members, The Dorset Hideaway.

Based in West Dorset, near to Charmouth, Bridport and Broadchurch, Esther and Mike run their Gold award caravan storage site alongside a camping and glamping site.

Here’s our interview with The Dorset Hideaway, giving you an insight into the running of a caravan storage business.

How long have you been in operation: We opened in the summer of 2015, so will be coming up to our 4^th year this summer.

Have you always been in caravan storage: No. We became storage owners as a result of diversifying our former dairy farm into a campsite and glamping site.

What has been the biggest change in the caravan storage industry since you started?

The biggest change I’ve seen in caravanning in the last few years has been the number of people preferring not to tow anymore - young and old alike. They prefer to stay in an area for a season or two with someone else towing the van to & from storage or seasonal pitch sites and then the van being sited each time for them. They see the cost savings in downsizing their car and running costs and they tend to use their vans more as a result. 

Having an organisation like CaSSOA is helping to consolidate and regulate storage and make it more viable for both customer and business provider with more secure and better insured sites.

What do you find most challenging about caravan storage?

The most challenging thing is getting caravan owners to maintain their units. Once stored, they tend to forget they still need as much maintenance as when they’re in use. They need to be kept roadworthy for us to tow them in and out. Vans sitting up tend to get seized brakes and high spots on tyres like all things they are best used regularly! Thefts are a big issue for the industry but investing in CCTV and security are the best deterrents.

What do you like most about caravan storage?

For us, caravan storage means seeing lots of new faces on site, so getting to know a new family group is nice. It also uses an area on the farmyard to earn extra income from. 

We are a former dairy farming couple of 30 years. My husband’s family have farmed the Marshwood Vale for nearly 150 years! Diversifying has allowed us to keep our land but use it in a different way to earn an income. It has allowed us to stay and live out our later years in the area where we were born and have lived in for decades. It’s great to be able to share this stunning location with many thousands of people every year. With panoramic hills and fields as our backdrop, and the Jurassic coast less than 3 miles away, it’s no wonder people return year after year. 

We provide indoor and outdoor storage, caravan cleaning services, water, EHU in the storage areas, toilets, a site to stay on with fab award winning facilities, a spa with hot tub & sauna, and a fishing pond on site. We put up awnings for customers and we offer to fully set up the caravan for arrival so the only thing our customers have to do is take the beer/wine from the fridge and sit down in their warm caravan! We can even provide pet and babysitting services too! In addition, we have a petting farm and luxury glamping in 6m domes this year. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

We love the great outdoors, so anything countryside or rural or animal related. We own a menagerie of animals, dogs, 6 cats, 2 miniature Shetland ponies, pigs, goats and chickens. We love gardening and visiting gardens. We have a shared love of history and music and try to go to the cinema and concerts as often as possible. That’s us!

For more information about The Dorset Hideaway, visit the CaSSOA site listing, or head direct to The Dorset Hideaway website.

Caravan Insurance Secrets!

How do underwriters rate your touring caravan?

If you are buying a touring caravan this year or when the renewal of your caravan insurance comes around, you might be asking yourself how underwriters rate your particular make and model to arrive at the premium you are charged.

Some of the considerations insurers are likely to take into account include the following:

 

The make and model of your touring caravan

Underwriters have access to copious data on the relative costs of repairing or replacing touring caravans of different makes and models since this is clearly a relevant cost to them in the event of you making a claim. The more expensive your caravan type, typically the more your caravan insurance will cost you.

The age and value of the caravan

Very similar reasons to the above make the age and value of your touring caravan relevant to underwriters, who need to calculate the likely cost in replacing it or writing it off in the event of a total loss.

Your postcode

Insurers calculate the likelihood of theft or vandalism of your touring caravan with reference to the postcode of your address, as some areas are more vulnerable than others. Although it relates to motor insurance, the AA has published a list of postcodes ranked by insurers from the cheapest to the most expensive areas.

Central Registration and Identification Scheme (CRiS)

Underwriters need to know whether your particular make and model is registered with the Central Registration and Identification Scheme (CRiS).

It is a requirement for all recently manufactured UK makes and provides a kind of “log book” for caravans, identifying current and previous owners, whether it has been stolen or previously written off, and if there is outstanding finance on it.

Use

Underwriters also take into account whether you intend to use your touring caravan in the UK only or also plan to take it abroad. This may have a bearing on how often you plan to use it – insuring your caravan for the occasional outing each year might cost less than your avid use of it on frequent touring holidays.

Where is your caravan stored?

Some underwriters also give you credit for improving the security of your caravan when it is at its most vulnerable, out of season or when it is otherwise laid up and not in use.

For example, caravan insurance specialists Cover4Caravans, have worked with underwriters to offer up to a 15% discount on the cost of touring caravan insurance for ‘vans stored at a site registered by the Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association (CaSSOA).

The next time you ponder how underwriters might have assessed the amount of insurance premium you need to pay, these are just some of the considerations likely to have been taken into account.

To locate a CaSSOA caravan storage site, click here.

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 2

In part one of our Top Tips for Site Owners, we looked at security aspects to consider when setting up a caravan storage site. In part 2 we will look at the administrative elements to think about.

An efficient administration system that complements security aspects will ensure that a site runs smoothly.

Caravan Storage Records
Accurate records should be kept of all plot holders and should be updated as and when necessary. All details provided should, wherever possible, be verified either by driving license or passport.
If possible, ask for evidence of address such as a utility bill.

Insurance Details
The caravan owner’s insurance documents should be requested prior to a storage contract being exchanged. Check that the insurance will be valid for the term of the storage contract, and that it applies to the caravan or motorhome being stored.
Where applicable, make sure that the CRiS reference number on the caravan matches that on the insurance documents.

Damage Description
When a caravan first arrives onto the site it should be examined and any damage noted on a damage description form, which should be signed by the caravan owner and the site owner.
Ideally a check should be made each time the caravan is returned.

Site Fees
Site fees will be influenced by the quality of the site, its geographical location, and the economics of the area. On average, a year’s storage for a single axle caravan will be around £350.00*.
Undercover storage will usually generate a higher fee, and twin axle caravans are usually larger and therefore can also attract a higher fee.

Business Rates
As a business you will be required to pay business rates and the amount will be determined by the rateable value of the property. For more data on business rates check the Valuation Office Agency.

VAT
If the gross income from the site exceeds the current threshold of £82,000 then it is likely that VAT will have to be paid at the standard rate of 20%.

Storage Contract
A written contract is strongly recommended, as in the event of a dispute it can be invaluable.
All contracts must be fair and reasonable in their terms, and meet the requirements of Unfair Terms in Consumer Contract Regulations 1999.
Terms must also be in plain language and if not, the interpretation which favours the consumer will apply. Site owners need to be aware that plot holders may take advantage of a site where there is no written contract.

Public Liability Insurance
Public Liability Insurance is essential when the nature of the business allows people onto the site for a specific purpose.
There will always be the potential for an accident, and therefore insurance should be in place for such eventualities.

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

*Representative costs based on sample data taken from Bronze, Silver & Gold CaSSOA storage facilities across the UK. Price is based on
average yearly cost for the storage of a single axle caravan. Prices will vary from site to site depending on location and security level awarded.

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. 

Setting up a Caravan Storage Site

Setting Up A Storage Site

Do you have empty land and are unsure of how to use it? Caravan storage might be worth considering.

Whether you’ve got space for 10 caravans or 1000, caravan storage could help you maximise your land and bring in new revenue.

Here’s our quick guide to what you need to consider:

Planning

Initially, you’ll need to submit a planning application. In the majority of cases this will be for change of use for B8 Storage or Distribution. For any questions about what you need to submit in your application or which application type you should use, you should contact your local planning authority. 

If you need contact details or are unsure which planning authority you should contact, you can use the Planning Portal’s search tool. 

Security

There are a number of factors CaSSOA will consider when surveying and assessing a storage site in order to grant an accreditation. These include:

• Perimeter Protection
• Access Control
• Lighting
• Alarm Systems
• CCTV
• Administrative Procedures

As a minimum, CaSSOA sites must have full perimeter protection and access control.

Layout

As a rough guide each stored caravan should be allocated around 30 square metres of space, with the respective caravan jockey wheels set at a distance of at least 3 meter centres.

Individual parking bays should be approximately 8 metres in length, with the access roads at least 8 meters wide.  The space recommended between each caravan (hitch post to hitch post) is 3.5 meters.

Fire Protection

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to caravan storage sites and stipulates that a fire risk assessment be carried out. A fire risk assessment can be carried out quite easily by the site owner and CaSSOA can provide assistance with the process.

Administration

Additional things to consider:

• Site records, customer information & contracts – for these you will need to consider Data Protection Laws, and there are also programmes available which can assist with this, like Caravan Storage Manager.  
• Insurance
• Site fees – It is always worthwhile, having a look into the rates of sites in similar areas, with a similar level of security.
• Business Rates – For more information click here.
• VAT – For more information click here. 

Working towards the mantra ‘Together We Can Beat Caravan Theft’, CaSSOA has over 400 members nationwide actively promoting our ethos and providing superior caravan and motorhome storage facilities.


If you do decide to venture into caravan storage, show your commitment to the security standard of the caravan and motorhome storage industry by becoming a 
member of CaSSOA.

If you’d like to join CaSSOA or would like more information please email CaSSOA on enquiries@cassoa.co.uk or call us on 0843 216 5802. 

Caravan Storage Options

There are a number of options when it comes to deciding where to store your caravan.

Here's our guide to the choices you have and how to choose the best secure storage for your caravan or motorhome.

Read this on the CaSSOA blog. 

Vermin Proof your Caravan

Prepare your caravan for long term storage to prevent vermin damage.

Caravan Magazine talks us through some top tips for keeping your caravan safe from rodents.

Mice can squeeze through tiny gaps including the plastic vents and gas drop-outs under your caravans. And if they don’t fit, they can gnaw through them.

Without blocking your vents (it’s dangerous), cover them with a piece of fine metal mesh, chicken wire doubled over, or a metallic pan scrubber, stapled firmly in place. Don’t bother filling gaps with expanding foam, mice seem to particularly love chewing through that. It’s like a mouse Crunchie bar!

• Flush a strong detergent down your sink plug hole, as mice can be attracted to bits of food that go down the waste pipe.

• At either side of your front locker there are usually gaps leading up the hollow pillars and into the caravan. Block these with some scrunched-up fine wire mesh netting.

• Investigate the floor of your caravan for any tiny holes or gaps, and make sure all are properly filled.

• Seal around all cable holes in the floor with a good quality silicone sealant.

• Don’t leave food (human or pet) in the caravan.

• Clean the fridge and bins thoroughly.

• The strong smell of a used barbecue will attract mice and rats. Don’t store one in your caravan. If you do, keep it spotlessly clean.

• Remove potential nesting materials from your caravan. Consider storing expensive sofa cushions and mattresses at home over winter.

• Vacuum your caravan before storing it, to remove almost-invisible crumbs of food.

Storing Your Caravan

• Caravans on hard-standing are less likely to get infested than those on grass. Mice avoid areas where they are exposed such as bare hard-standings.

• Farm storage locations are likely to have more rodents around than other options.

• Don't give rodents an easy route into your caravan. Even sagging caravan covers can provide access.

• Mice find their way to food and shelter by following trails of mouse urine. Consider spraying your corner steadies, tyres and jockey wheel with a Jeyes Fluid solution to eradicate these trails.

• One option is to remove your caravan's wheels and replace them with axle-stands or 'winter wheels' when storing it through the winter. This makes the van more secure, prevents tyre damage and makes it trickier for mice to get up to the chassis.

• Certain scents are believed to repel mice. These include tumble-dryer sheets and mothballs.

• Check with your caravan storage site to make sure they have a vermin control regime in place.

For more advice on preparing your caravan for storage click here.

Thank you to Caravan Magazine for this feature.

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.

Summer Caravan Care

With summer approaching and the weather improving it’s more than likely that you’ll be wanting to spend more time out and about in your caravan or motorhome.

If your vehicle has been in storage over the winter months, or just not in use for a month or two, there are some important maintenance checks that ought to be carried out before departing for your next trip. The last thing you’d want is to be left without electricity because a quick equipment check was skipped before you left.

Basic checks

A few basic checks carried out prior to departure can help to ensure a trouble free getaway:

Tyres 

Make sure that tyres on both your caravan and tow car are at the correct pressure, and that they are not cracked or damaged. Under inflated tyres can lead to poor vehicle handling and also require more fuel to maintain the same speed.

Battery

Some older models are prone to power leak so it’s best to double check your battery is fully charged.

Smoke Alarm & carbon monoxide detector

Check that these are working and replace if necessary.

Breakaway cable & fastenings

A visual check will ensure that both are working correctly. It is also worthwhile checking the leads and pulls that are used to tow your caravan to check for any damage that could potentials weaken the connection during your journey.

Door & window latches

Check to ensure that seals have not deteriorated whilst in storage and that latches are fully operational.

Jockey wheel & handbrake

Test to make sure that both are functioning properly. Check for corrosion, wear and tear and corrosion.

Internal appliances

Check that gas and electrical connections are working properly, and that the fridge, cooker and heater all work.

Electrics

Check that brake lights, indicators, reverse lights, parking lights and side lights are all working, clean and free from mud and grime.

These checks needn't be time consuming and may ensure you can enjoy your holiday without any surprises! All that’s left to do is make sure your caravan insurance is up to date, stock up with food and water and enjoy your getaway!

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.

Keeping your Caravan Safe

In recent years the level of reported thefts of touring caravans has reduced substantially, however that is of little consequence to those who become a victim of this type of crime. As a caravan owner it is important to make sure that you do all that you can to protect the security of your caravan, which after all for many is a substantial investment. Tim Booth, from the Caravan Safety & Security Group has some useful advice.

A number of touring caravans have recently been reported as having been stolen in the Derbyshire area. Many of these were from storage that was being provided at farm locations.

The most important consideration when seeking to protect your caravan is to make sure that you meet the standards required by your insurer – you do not have to insure a caravan but of course if you decide to then there will always be policy conditions. Most insurers require you to fit a hitch lock and wheel clamp – but you have to consider whether this is enough.

A caravan stored at an ‘informal’ farm location is often vulnerable as any offender can spend time defeating security devices that you have fitted. So, you need to consider the storage site security. 

• How easy is it for you to collect your caravan? 
• Is there security in place?
• Is the storage area a fenced and gated area? 
• How often have you been ‘challenged’ when collecting your own caravan – or do you have to arrange collection with the storage provider?

If it is very straightforward for you to drive in and collect your caravan, if it is then the same applies to someone seeking to steal your caravan.

How often do you check your caravan? Many operators provide storage, but there is no check of your property once it is parked there – does the storage agreement include checks by the operator? – If not then you need to make regular visits (some of the caravans stolen have not been seen by their owners for a number of months).

If your caravan has an alarm system then make sure that it works – alarms will serve to both deter offenders and attract attention – but if the caravan is in the middle of nowhere then it is unlikely that there would be any response to such an activation.

If your caravan has an after theft recovery device fitted then make sure that you have paid the subscription for the monitoring (many insurers provide a benefit for using these devices – but failure to pay the subscription may leave your insurance invalid).

Some systems can only be activated once the caravan has been stolen – so this may be some considerable time after the event – so the value of such a product may not be as good as you may want to see. There are pro-active devices available – again these offer a benefit with many insurers – the real benefit here is that, if the alarm is linked to a monitoring device, then the alarm activation will be reported to you, and then action can be taken to investigate what is wrong – these systems can also provide live updates of the caravan’s location, enabling an early recovery in the event of a theft (these recoveries on some occasions have been within the hour – so your caravan and the contents are still together).

If you leave ‘caravan’ equipment in your caravan when it is stored then it is a good idea to mark this with your postcode. Not only does this protect your property when you are using the caravan on a site, but it also provides permanent identification of this property should any offender seek to sell, or dispose of the contents of the caravan, after the theft.

A permanent marker pen is ideal for this – one that leaves a mark that you can see, not the ‘hidden’ UV marker. You may also mark the inside of your caravan with the last six numbers of its VIN – its unique identification mark found on the windows. Repeating this mark inside cupboards / lockers within the caravan can help to identify it if the offender works to remove the identification provided by the manufacturer.

Registering your caravan with the CRiS scheme (the UK Central Registration Identification Scheme) can also help the Police to identify your caravan. This is a register of keepers and in the event of a theft then previous keepers can provide information to officers about unique features of the caravan that you previously owned. Introduced back in 1992 the scheme can now provide you with covert identification tags that can be hidden around the caravan. These electronic tags can be read by a special reader that is available to Police officers – so even if the manufacturer’s identification marks have been removed the caravan can still be identified.

To locate secure storage site for your caravan or motorhome, click here.

Read this on our website. 

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?

View this post on our website

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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