Our caravans are an extension of our homes and we like to do the things we would at home, including cooking, relaxing and watching TV; but many static caravan owners worry about whether or not they need a separate TV licence for their caravan, or if their main home licence covers it.
The rules can be a bit confusing, especially with all the different devices and streaming services available, and you could face a fine if you don’t have the right licence. With this in mind we’ve put together a guide to explain when you do (and don’t) need a TV licence for a static caravan, so you can relax and enjoy your time away without worrying.
WHEN DO YOU NEED A TV LICENCE?
- If you watch or record live TV on any channel.
- If you use BBC iPlayer.
A TV licence pays for programmes made by, and broadcast, on BBC channels; including TV, radio, iPlayer and BBC Sounds. This is because the BBC doesn’t allow advertising, so the government gets the licensing fees and passes this on to the BBC in the form of a grant.
WHEN DON’T YOU NEED A TV LICENCE?
- When you’re streaming services such as Netflix or Disney Plus.
- When you’re watching on demand TV via services such as Channel 4 and Amazon Prime.
- YouTube
- Videos or DVDs
WHEN DO YOU NEED A TV LICENCE FOR A STATIC CARAVAN?
Whether or not you need a separate TV licence for your static caravan depends on how it’s used and how your main home TV licence is set up. You need a licence for your main residence – which is usually your home and if your caravan is linked to your main residence; for example, if it’s on your property or used as an extension of your household, your existing TV licence may cover it. However, you can’t watch devices in two places at the same time; for example, you’re away in your static caravan and you watch TV, and your children stay at home and watch TV, or you have friends staying in your caravan.
You’ll need to fill in a non-simultaneous use declaration form to confirm that:
- The caravan is only used by people covered by the TV licence at the main residence.
- You’re not watching live TV on multiple devices at the same time.
WHAT IF YOU RENT OUT YOUR CARAVAN?
If you rent your static caravan out and the people staying in it are going to be watching TV at the same time as you, then you’ll need a separate a TV licence. As the owner, you’re responsible for making sure the caravan is licensed correctly.
FINES AND PENALTIES
You could be fined up to £1,000 if you watch or record live TV without a TV licence.
HOW DO YOU GET A TV LICENCE?
Applying for a licence is straightforward; you can apply online via the TV Licensing website. You can pay £180 in one go, or £15* a month by Direct Debit.
The rules around TV licenses for static caravans can be confusing, but the main thing to remember is you can’t have someone watching TV at your main address at the same time as someone is watching TV in your static caravan. It’s worth checking the TV licensing website regularly to make sure you’ve got the most recent information.
Once you’ve got the right caravan in the right location with the right licence, you could think about which is the right insurance for you. Our static caravan insurance offers a choice of benefits, with the option to add optional benefits too, meaning you get a policy that suits your lifestyle and your budget. Take a look at our website, or give us a call for a free, no-strings quote today.
*Initial payments may be higher. Prices are subject to change.
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