Purchasing a residential park home is an exciting step toward a peaceful lifestyle in a vibrant community. Before finalizing your purchase, a site inspection is a vital part of the process that ensures your new home meets all necessary standards. Understanding what happens during this inspection helps you prepare properly and make informed decisions about your future home.
Key takeaways
- Park home site inspections typically assess structural integrity, utilities connections, boundary markers, and overall site conditions
- Prepare by gathering documentation, understanding the park’s rules, and making a list of questions for the inspector
- The inspection process usually takes 1-2 hours and involves checking both the home’s interior and exterior
- Common issues include damp problems, insulation concerns, and utility connection issues – most can be remedied
- After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report to inform your final purchase decision
What to expect before your park home site inspection
Preparing for your park home site inspection doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does require some planning. We recommend setting aside time to gather important documentation and information before the inspector arrives.
Here’s how to prepare effectively:
- Gather documentation: Have available any documents related to the park home, including the current Written Statement Under the Mobile Home Act 1983, which outlines your rights and responsibilities as a park home owner.
- Understand your rights: This agreement confirms you can use your residential park licence ‘in perpetuity’ – meaning you can live in your home permanently.
- Schedule wisely: When buying a residential park home at Leedons Residential Park or Broadway Park, we’ll help you schedule the inspection at a convenient time.
- Prepare questions: Create a list of specific questions about the property, such as mains service connections or driveway specifications.
Remember that all new park homes must comply with British Standard BS3632, which sets quality standards for residential park homes. New homes from us come with a manufacturer’s warranty and 10-year Gold Shield/Platinum Seal structure cover, but the inspection helps verify everything meets these standards.
The step-by-step park home inspection process
When inspection day arrives, the process typically takes between one and two hours, depending on the size and condition of the park home. Here’s what happens during this important assessment:
1. Exterior examination
The inspector begins with a thorough check of the home’s exterior. This includes:
- Examining the roof, walls, windows, and doors for damage or wear
- Inspecting the chassis that supports the structure
- Verifying the park home’s dimensions (maximum allowed size of 50ft x 22ft for our residential parks)
- Checking the driveway (accommodates two cars), paths, and garden shed included in your package
2. Utilities assessment
Next, the inspector will examine the utility connections. This includes checking:
- Electrical systems and wiring
- Gas connections (mains natural gas is available at Leedons Residential)
- Water supply and drainage
- Heating and insulation systems
The inspector ensures all these vital services are properly installed, safe, and functioning correctly. They’ll verify that the connections to mains services (included in your sited price) meet all required standards.
3. Interior evaluation
The interior inspection includes a detailed assessment of:
- Walls, floors, and ceilings for any signs of damage or damp
- Windows and doors for proper operation and sealing
- Kitchen and bathroom fixtures and plumbing
- Built-in appliances and heating systems
This thorough examination helps identify any issues that might affect your comfort or the home’s longevity.
4. Site and boundary assessment
Finally, the inspector will check the plot boundaries and the general condition of the site. They’ll confirm the home is properly positioned and that any steps, skirting, and other groundwork (all included in your package) are correctly installed.
Common issues discovered during site inspections
While our residential park homes are built to high standards, inspections occasionally identify issues that need attention. Being aware of common findings helps you understand what to look out for:
Damp and moisture concerns
One of the most common issues involves signs of damp or water ingress. Watch for:
- Staining on walls or ceilings
- Musty odours
- Visible mould
These problems are usually repairable and addressing them early prevents more significant damage.
Insulation and heating efficiency
Inspectors may identify inadequate insulation or inefficient heating systems, which can affect your comfort and energy costs. Modern park homes should be well-insulated to BS3632 standards, but older homes might require improvements.
Structural elements
Sometimes issues with the chassis, roof structure, or wall construction are found. These structural elements are vital to the home’s integrity and safety, so any concerns need proper assessment and remedy.
Utility connections
Problems with electrical systems, plumbing, or gas connections are sometimes identified. These issues range from minor (like improperly sealed pipe joints) to more significant safety concerns that require immediate attention.
When issues are discovered at Leedons Residential Park or Broadway Park, we work with you to ensure they’re addressed properly. Most concerns can be remedied before you complete your purchase, giving you peace of mind about your new home.
After the inspection: next steps for park home buyers
Once your park home inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the inspector’s findings. This report becomes a valuable tool in your purchase decision process.
Reviewing the inspection report
Follow these steps when reviewing your report:
- Read through the entire document carefully
- Note how issues are categorized by severity
- Identify which items are cosmetic versus structural or safety concerns
- Prepare questions about any findings you don’t understand
If you have questions about anything in the report, we’re happy to discuss these with you and provide clarification. Understanding the implications of any findings is important for making an informed decision.
Addressing any concerns
If the inspection reveals issues that need attention, we’ll work with you to determine the best course of action. For new park homes, this might involve having the manufacturer address certain items before completion. For pre-owned homes, we can discuss potential remedies or adjustments to ensure you’re completely satisfied.
Moving forward with your purchase
After addressing any concerns from the inspection, you can proceed with confidence to the next steps in your purchase journey. The typical timeline includes:
- Finalizing your payment arrangements
- Waiting approximately 12 weeks for your new home to be built
- Allowing up to 16 additional weeks for siting and connections
- Planning your move-in date
As you prepare to join our community of over 500 homeowners, our resident staff will be available to help you settle in and answer any questions about park living. From the indoor heated swimming pool to the outdoor bowling green, you’ll soon be enjoying all the amenities that make our residential parks such wonderful places to live.
FAQ
Do I need to be present during the park home inspection?
While not strictly necessary, we recommend being present during the inspection. This gives you the opportunity to ask questions, point out specific concerns, and gain first-hand understanding of your potential new home’s condition.
How is a park home inspection different from a traditional house inspection?
Park home inspections focus on elements specific to manufactured homes, including the chassis, weatherproofing systems, and compliance with BS3632 standards. They also examine the plot and connections to park infrastructure, which differ from traditional property surveys.
Can I arrange my own independent inspection?
Yes, you’re welcome to arrange an independent inspection with a surveyor experienced in park homes. Many buyers find value in having both our recommended inspection and their own assessment for complete peace of mind.
What happens if serious issues are found during inspection?
If significant problems are identified, we’ll discuss options with you including repairs, replacements, or adjustments to ensure your satisfaction. Our goal is to resolve any concerns before you complete your purchase.
How often should I have my park home inspected after purchase?
We recommend having your park home professionally inspected every 3-5 years after purchase to identify maintenance needs early. Regular checks help preserve your home’s condition and value over time.
