Complete Guide to Recreational Vehicles and Mobile Homes

This comprehensive guide explains recreational vehicles, mobile homes, and park living considerations. Discover coverage options, definitions, and important tips for ownership, helping you make informed decisions about mobile home investments and lifestyle choices.

Complete Guide to Recreational Vehicles and Mobile Homes

A recreational vehicle (RV) offers a unique alternative to traditional housing, and insurers like Farmers Insurance recognize that mobile home owners have specific coverage needs. Customized policies for RVs and mobile homes provide protection that includes:

Coverage for sudden, accidental, and direct incidents unless excluded.

Liability coverage if you're legally responsible for an accident.

Additional options to tailor your insurance plan.

What Are Recreational Vehicles?

Structures resembling living dwellings.

Designed for mobility, allowing movement from one location to another.

Not permanently attached to land.

Manufactured homes are distinct from caravans or tents and are regulated within residential parks.

Converted Vehicles

A converted vehicle was originally built as a caravan but is no longer considered one due to structural modifications. It is not classified as a manufactured home unless:

There is a site agreement between the owner and the residential park.

The owner voluntarily enters into a site agreement for a new mobile home or converted caravan.

Identifying Manufactured Home Ownership

If you are a manufactured home owner for the purposes of the Act, it is because:

Your manufactured home serves as your main residence.

You have a site agreement as a personal representative or estate beneficiary.

You permit a tenant to occupy the home temporarily (if permitted under the agreement).

Understanding Residential Parks

Residential parks are designated land areas available for rent under a site agreement.

Common areas and facilities provide comfort, convenience, and enjoyment for residents.

Manufactured homes in parks include:

Mixed-use parks with manufactured homes, caravans, tents, and holiday cabins offering both short and long-term accommodation.

Purpose-built parks consisting solely of manufactured homes, often catering to the over-50 demographic.

What to Consider Before Purchasing a Mobile Home in a Park

Evaluate all retirement living options like parks, villages, or units to choose what best suits your needs.

Ensure the park offers essential facilities such as transportation, emergency access, recreation, and social amenities.

Preferred park types include:

Purpose-built

Mixed-use

Communal living schemes if suitable for you

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