Compulsory charge?

[itsmefolks]

I own a static caravan on a private park. We love every aspect of it and have done for many years. Lately the park has changed its secretary, who has sent a letter to all owners of caravans on the park, stating “We are facilitating internal checks on vans over 3 years old on the park by our gas engineer. The cost will be £42 plus vat.” Is this lawful?? I understand that each park has different rules, but surely we should be allowed to have the vans checked by an engineer of our choice!! It just seems a bit dictatorial to me!! We obviously dont want to make a fuss, but just feel a bit like we have no choice in this!
Any assistance would be appreciated.

[itsmefolks]

I do understand that. However, anyone working on the park and carring out work, ie electrical or otherwise requires certification of completion.

[cassa333]

TBH although it does sound a little dictatorial it is relativly cheap.

What they could have done was ask for a copy of your gas check certificate and offer there service for those that didn't have one.

Unless it is stated in your site terms and conditions though I can't see how they could make you use the contractor of their choice. Do they regard themselves as your landlord? Do they own the caravans? and are you legaly required to have a gas check either in law or the rules of the site?

[Mrs_Pegasus]

I would get a quote from someone else and compare. Personally £42 sounds very reasonable. Obviously if you know someone who could do it at "mates rates" it may be worth speaking to the owners to ask if you could have it done by someone else.

Our static is checked every year and we pay a little more than you but its all organised by the owners of the site and it then complies with their insurance company who we also insure with because it was the cheapest available.

[itsmefolks]

Thanks for the input everyone. Yes I suppose there are a few ways to see the situation. I guess I should let them get on with it as I dont want a fuss and an issue making of it. Looking at another way is that it saves us the bother of us aranging someone to do it. It is only every 3 years and I guess its better safe than sorry.
Thanks again one and all.