New laws have come into force to protect residents of park homes from unscrupulous operators.
Under regulations that have been introduced this week, park home operators will be removed from the process of buying and selling homes on their sites.
Councils have also been given more powers to enforce breaches of regulations, and it has become harder for owners to make changes to the rules governing their sites.
The laws were introduced following reports of site owners abusing their position to make a profit at the expense of their residents, who are often elderly people who have moved to the sites when they retired.
Housing minister Mark Prisk said: ‘For too long, some unscrupulous operators have made residents’ lives a misery, intimidating people and manipulating the rules to turn a quick profit. So we’ve closed the loopholes to root out the rogues and ensure that those who run an honest business will flourish.
‘We’ve also given councils the power they need to protect the vulnerable, so park home residents who know their rights will be able to enjoy their rural retreats in peace.’
The legal changes are contained in the Mobile Homes Act 2013. The government has also set up a park homes advice line, which will be run by the Leasehold Advisory Service from today.