Selling an inherited caravan

First, establish who can sell it

A caravan forms part of the estate. Ordinarily the executor or administrator has the authority to sell it, and depending on the estate that may require a grant of probate. If probate is in progress, we can still discuss a valuation — the sale simply completes once the authority is in place.

What to look for

• The CRiS registration document, often kept with insurance papers rather than in the caravan.
• The original purchase invoice, if it exists.
• Service and habitation records, which may be in a folder inside the caravan.
• All keys, including hitch lock, wheel clamp and alarm fobs.
• Details of where it's stored and who to contact there.
• Any finance agreement or insurance policy still running.

Our paperwork guide explains what each document does, and what to do when one is missing.

Practical things worth doing early

• Check the insurance position — an uninsured caravan in storage is a risk to the estate.
• Confirm what the storage site charges and how much notice they need.
• Take photographs inside and out, including any damage, before anything is moved.
• Note the location so collection can be planned, particularly on a farm or a gated site.
• Don't feel obliged to clean, repair or tidy it — we'd rather see it as it is.

If it's been stood for years

Caravans that haven't been used often have flat batteries, perished tyres, seized brakes or damp that has developed unnoticed. That's normal and it doesn't stop us buying. See selling an older or non-runner caravan and our damp guide.

How we try to make it easier

• One point of contact rather than a stream of enquiries from strangers.
• No requirement to advertise, host viewings or negotiate.
• We can deal with the storage site directly to arrange collection, with permission.
• No pressure and no deadline — take the time the estate needs.

If you'd rather talk it through before filling anything in, our contact page has our phone number and hours.