Legal Considerations for Converting a Camper Van in the UK

Converting a standard van into a campervan can be an exciting project, but did you know there are various legal requirements and standards your conversion has to meet before you can head out on your holiday? 

We have put together a list of legal requirements you have to meet if you’re doing your own conversion but remember, if you’d rather enjoy the open road than the inside of your garage, you can always speak to us about a professional and bespoke conversion! 

What Legal Requirements Must My Van Comply With?

When converting a van into a campervan, several things need to be deemed legal and roadworthy. We have compiled a list below. 

Can you legally convert a van into a campervan?

In the UK, converting a van into a campervan is permissible, but it must meet certain criteria to be legally classified as a campervan, listed below. The criteria typically include having specific features such as a bed (which can be converted from seating), storage facilities, and cooking facilities. The vehicle should resemble a motorhome in its layout and design, ensuring it is suitable for living accommodation.

What Legally Qualifies as a ‘Motor Caravan’ in the UK?

For a vehicle to be classified as a ‘Motor Caravan’ by the DVLA, it must have the following permanent fixtures:

Sleeping Accommodation  

• A bed with a minimum length of 6ft (180cm) must be present.
• The bed should be an integral part of the vehicle’s living area.
• It can be either permanent or converted from seats (it can fold away during the day).
• The bed fixtures must be securely attached to the vehicle’s floor or side walls, unless located over the driver’s cab compartment.

Door  

• The vehicle must have either a horizontal sliding door or an outward-opening rear or side door.

Seats and Tables  

• There must be a seating area for diners.
• The table can be fixed or detachable but must be securely mounted to the vehicle’s floor or side walls as a permanent feature (either bolted, screwed, or welded).
• The seating must be permanently fixed to the vehicle’s floor or side walls, secured by bolts, rivets, screws, or welding.
• The seating must be usable at a table.

Water Container  

• While the DVLA does not specify requirements for water storage, most insurance companies expect an onboard or underchassis water tank. Some insurers may accept a movable external water container, like those used with caravans.
• The vehicle should have a water container, either onboard or external (e.g., under the chassis).

Storage  

• The vehicle must have at least one cupboard, locker, or wardrobe.
• This storage unit should be an integral part of the living area and be permanently secured to the vehicle’s floor and/or side walls, either bolted, riveted, screwed, or welded.

Cooking Facilities  

• The vehicle must have cooking facilities powered by a fixed gas, electric hob, or microwave oven.
• These facilities must be permanently secured to the vehicle’s floor or side walls, using bolts, rivets, screws, or welding.
• Gas or electric hobs must have at least two cooking rings. Microwave ovens must be functional with a power source.
• For gas facilities with remote fuel supplies, the gas supply pipe must be permanently secured to the vehicle’s structure, and the gas bottle or fuel reservoir must be securely attached to the vehicle.

Exterior  

• The vehicle must have at least one side window.
• If your vehicle is only fitted with a pop top or elevated roof and not a fixed high top – you will not be able to re-classify the vehicle as a camper with the DVLA. 

What are the Benefits of Registering My Van with the DVLA as a Campervan?

Registering your van as a campervan can offer several benefits:

• Lower Insurance Costs: Campervans are often insured at lower rates compared to commercial vans due to their recreational use.
• Road Tax Benefits: Depending on the specifics of your conversion, there might be potential savings on road tax too.
• Improved Facilities: A registered campervan may have access to facilities such as dedicated campsites or parking areas that are restricted to recreational vehicles.

Now we have covered what makes a campervan a campervan – what other legal requirements do you need to be aware of? 

Construction and Use Regulations: The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 cover the design, manufacture, maintenance, construction, and operation of motor vehicles and trailers used by road transport operators and others. These regulations cover aspects such as the stability of fixtures, proper installation of gas and electrical systems, and ensuring the vehicle remains roadworthy. For example, any gas installations should be carried out by a certified gas safe engineer to meet safety standards.

MOT and Roadworthiness: After conversion, your campervan will still be subject to a yearly Class 4 MOT test, and it must pass to remain legal on the road. This test is the same as you would have on your car and will check that all modifications, especially structural changes, are safe and meet the required standards as set out by the DVLA

Weight Considerations: Be mindful of the weight of your conversion. Campervan weight regulations were updated in 2023 to enhance safety for UK citizens. The new laws aim to prevent accidents, such as tipping vans and falling items, that can result from vehicles exceeding their weight limits. Exceeding the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) could make your vehicle illegal to drive. Ensure that any modifications or additions, such as water tanks or heavy appliances, do not push the vehicle over its legal weight limit. To check your campervan weight limit, consult your vehicle handbook and head to your nearest weighbridge. For more indepth information about campervan weight (and there is a lot to know) this comprehensive guide from The Gap Decaders is really useful! 

Parking and Usage Restrictions: Local councils may have specific regulations about parking campervans or using them as permanent residences. We wrote a great guide here that covers all you need to know about parking your campervan in the UK. 

Insurance Disclosure: You must declare any modifications made when converting your van into a camper, but legally reregistering its body type as a campervan is only necessary if you have made changes to the outside of your van. Depending on your insurer, it may significantly impact your insurance costs so, if you have added an awning and a poptop roof, you’re going to need to reregister it as a motor caravan. But if you’ve only changed the interior, then you don’t need to.

Failing to inform your insurer about the conversion could invalidate your policy, leaving you unprotected in the event of an accident or theft so it pays to be honest and ask for advice if you’re unsure, 

Environmental Compliance: For the good of the planet (and your wallet) you should ensure that your campervan conversion is environmentally friendly, especially if you’re planning to drive in low emission zones. Many cities are introducing “Clean Air Zones”, including in Europe but If your diesel campervan meets Euro 6 emissions standards or higher, or if your petrol vehicle meets Euro 4 emissions standards or higher, you won’t be required to pay any charges. However, since each city’s scheme varies slightly, it’s advisable to check your vehicle to ensure you’re aware of any applicable fees.

While converting a van into a campervan offers flexibility and personalisation, it’s crucial to make sure you’re compliant with the law and inform the DVLA of any changes. Doing so ensures that your vehicle is legally recognised and can enjoy the associated benefits of being registered as a campervan.

Remember, we provide conversion services that take into consideration your budget and plans for camper life and have thousands of options for customisations too! Read more about what we offer on our conversion packages page and get in touch if you have any questions!