Frequently asked questions when buying a new or used caravan

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING WHEN BUYING A NEW OR USED CARAVAN?

Without a shadow of doubt safety, always make sure that the tow car is man enough to tow the caravan. This can be found out by visiting your nearest dealer who will have a computer program call Tow Safe.

HOW DO I KNOW IF THE CARAVAN I AM BUYING HAS NOT BEEN STOLEN OR WRITTEN OFF?

If you buy a caravan from a reputable dealer you need not worry about this as the responsibility always lies with the dealer, and should this happen you will normally get all your money back. However, if you have bought the caravan from a private seller this is a little more difficult. You need to make certain checks with CRIS and then this is not always 100% accurate as caravan serial numbers can be altered to a caravan that is not stolen or has been written off. This is known as a ringer. The customer usually ends up out of pocket, and this can be thousands of pounds.

AFTER I HAVE BOUGHT THE CARAVAN WHAT BASIC ITEMS WILL I NEED AND HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

Its like buying your 1st home, you start with the basics and build up, £350 should get you good starter pack, Aqua Roll, Waste Master, Mains Cable, Battery, Step, Gas Bottle Wheel clamp, Hitch lock.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO STORE A CARAVAN?

This depends on the security that the storage site offers. It can range from £125.00 for farm yard storage to £350 for Gold Secure which is manned 24 hours. These figures are guide lines you need to contact your local storage site for a firm quote.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST FOR AN ANNUAL CARAVAN SERVICE?

This will depend on your location and the level of service given. At Newport Caravans the usual price for a single axle service is £179 and twin axle service £194 inc VAT plus parts.

DO I NEED TO MOT AND TAX MY CARAVAN?

No there is no MOT or tax on touring caravan. However it is recommended that you have the caravan serviced annually.