Update: July 2012 – The DVLA have reverted to their original policy regarding re-registering of campervans. The vehicle does not need to have graphics on to be re-registered. A well converted vehicle with windows is likely to be registered as a “Motorcaravan”, and not a van with side windows.
Update: March 2011 – Many people applying to have vehicles re-registered as “Motor Caravans” with the DVLA are being refused, as their vehicle does “Not look like a motor caravan from the outside”. The DVLA are then re-classifying the vehicles as “Vans with windows”. Apparently this is a problem for the Police and other authorities, who cannot identify converted vehicles easily from the outside. This page will be updated when new information is confirmed.
If you are converting a van to a campervan or motorhome then you need to consider whether you want to re-register the vehicle with your vehicle authority.
In the UK
In the UK you have the option of re-registering your van as a “motor caravan” with the DVLA. It is not a requirement to re-register the vehicle. You can continue to use the vehicle as a campervan, even if it is still registered as a “panel van”, assuming you have adequate (i.e. campervan) insurance.
Why Re-register as a “Motor Caravan”?
Although you do not need to re-register a campervan conversion, here are the benefits of doing so
- Cheaper Insurance – Generally leisure vehicles such as campervans are cheaper to insure the panel vans. This is because they generally have fewer claims, do fewer miles and are not used for commercial use. Keep in mind that you can still get your self build insured as a campervan even if the vehicle is registered as a panel van. Campervan insurance is generally 10% – 50% cheaper than van insurance.
- Contents Insurance – Vehicles registered as campervans generally have better contents insurance than panel vans. This is because a campervan contains personal belongings such as mobile phone, laptops, jewellery, etc. Whereas a panel van typically contains tools and parts for commercial use.
- Might be able to travel faster – Vans with an unladen weight of under 3050kg can travel at a maximum of 60mph on a dual carriageway. But this increases to 70mph on a dual carriageway for vehicles registered as campervans. All other speed limits remain the same. Vehicles with a unladen weight over 3050kg (i.e. all 3500kg vans) have no change in speed limit when re-registering as a campervan.
- Cheaper MOT – Class VII vehicles (between 3000kg and 3500kg) registered as camper vans come under the cheaper and less restriction Class IV MOT rules. When inspecting the vehicle the MOT tester has to test the vehicle “as it is presented”. So if a campervan is presented, that would normally be class VII, even if it is not re-registered as a campervan, the MOT tester should test is as class IV vehicle.
- Might get cheaper ferry prices – Travelling on a ferry is typically cheaper for a campervan or motorhome than a commercial van. Most ferry companies look at a converted campervan and are happy for it to pay the cheaper campervan price. However, a few ferry companies will use the DVLA log book classification to determine whether to price the vehicle as a commercial vehicle or not.
Change of Vehicle Classification
If you decide that you want to re-register your van as a campervan you should contact your local vehicle authority. In the UK this is the DVLA.
Before doing this make sure you vehicle meets all of the criteria mentioned below.
What makes a ‘Motor Caravan’?
For a vehicle to qualify as a ‘Motor Caravan’ in the UK in the eyes of the DVLA the following permanent fixtures must be present:
- Sleeping Accommodation
- There must be a bed with a minimum length of 6ft or 180cms
- The bed must be an integral part of the vehicle living accommodation area
- The bed must be permanent or converted from seats (the bed can fold away during the day)
- The bed fixtures must be secured directly to the vehicle floor and/or side walls, unless it is over the drivers cab compartment.
- Door
- There must be a horizontal sliding door or an outward opening rear or side door.
- Seats and Tables
- There must be a seating area for diners to sit around
- The table can be fixed or detachable
- The table must mount directly to the vehicle floor or side walls
- The table mounting must be secured as a permanent feature, either bolted screwed or welded. The table itself can be detachable.
- Seats must be secured directly to the vehicle floor and/or side walls
- The seats must be secured as a permanent fixture, either bolted, riveted, screwed or welded
- Permanently secured seating must be available for use at a table
- Water Container
Note: DVLA do not state any requirements regarding water storage. However, most insurance companies state that the water tank should be onboard, or under the chassis. However, some insurance companies are happy with an external water container that can be moved, such as those used with a caravan.- The vehicle must have an onboard or external (e,g, under the chassis) water container
- Note: The insurer Adrian Flux requires the water container to hold 6 gallons / 27 litres.
- Storage
- The vehicle must have at least one cupboard, locker or wardrobe
- The cupboard must be an integral part of the living accommodation area
- The cupboard must be a permanent feature, either bolted, riveted, screwed or welded
- The cupboard must be secured directly to the vehicle floor and / or side walls
- Cooking
- The vehicle must have cooking facilities powered by fixed gas, electric hob or microwave oven
- The cooking facilities must be secured directly to the vehicle floor or side wall
- The cooking facilities must be a permanent feature, either bolted, riveted, screwed or welded
- Gas and electric hobs must have a minimum or 2 cooking rings. Microwave ovens must have a power source (don’t just fit one that can’t be used)
- Gas cooking facilities with remote fuel supplies must have the gas supply pipe permanently secured to the vehicle structure
- Gas cooking facilities with remote fuel supplies should have the gas bottle, fuel reservoir secured to the vehicle structure
- Outside
- The vehicle must have at least one side window
- New! Since 2011 the DVLA are now asking that the vehicle look like a motor caravan from the outside. The details are yet unclear what is required. More information will appear here when available.
How to Change a Vans Classification to Camper Van or Motorhome in the UK
In the UK, changing the classification of a van to a campervan or motorhome is fairly straightforward. The following information is based on real experience, correct at the time of the re-classification. This serves as a good guide, but please contact the DVLA to confirm the rules regarding your vehicle.
- When your conversion is complete, and your van is now (nearly) a camper van or motorhome you need to contact the DVLA and inform them.
- You should change your V5C (log book) document and return it to them. You need to change the vehicle body type to “Motor Caravan”. Motor Caravan is the term used by the DVLA for campervans and motorhomes. See the DirectGov website for details on changing your V5 document.
- You should also include a covering letter, briefly covering what you have done to the vehicle. Also include photographs of your converted vehicle. Don’t include too many. Between 10 and 20 are required. Do ensure that you include the vehicles number plate in a shot of the front of the vehicle, and a shot of the back of the vehicle. From the photos the DVLA can see if you have done a good conversion to the vehicle, or simply thrown a mattress in the back.
- Send the paperwork to:
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BA - If you have done a good conversion, and the DVLA are satisfied they will return a new V5 document to you, with the body type changed.
- However, if they are unsure of your conversion they will ask you to visit the local DVLA inspection office. An agent will inspect the vehicle before recommending any change of documentation.
- The DVLA do not publish strict guidelines for the above. However, The Department of Transport do publish a strict ‘motor caravan’ definition for vehicles that are being imported. Click here, and scroll down to ‘Motor caravan’. It’s likely the DVLA also use the same guidelines. However, the strict definitions here are, it seems, open to some interpretation.
When to Change the Vehicle Classification
You should change the classification of your vehicle from ‘Panel Van’ to ‘Motor Caravan’ when your conversion is nearly complete, once the major fittings are in place (bed, kitchen) and it looks neat and tidy. Once you think you satisfy all of the conditions mentioned above, contact the DVLA and start the re-classification process.
You don’t want any vehicle inspectors to think it is not finished, so ensure it looks finished before you apply for the change.
Don’t worry about finishing touches, you can always complete these once the vehicle is re-registered.
Insurance
Once your vehicle has been officially re-classified by the DVLA, you will need to change your insurance. Your original insurance will be for a ‘Panel Van’, and your vehicle is no longer one. So you need to cancel your existing policy, and get a new policy for a Camper van.
The insurance page has information and links too websites that will help.
UK Vehicle Classes
In the UK small vans, less than 3500kg, are classified as Class 4 vehicles. Vans between 3000kg and 3500kg are considered Class 7 vehicles. Class 7 vehicles have stricter MOT tests. Vehicles over 3500kg would normally go to a VOSA Test Centre. A bus/mini-bus with more than 8 seats (up to 13) is a Class 5, unless the seats are removed and the vehicle is re-classified as a campervan, then it becomes Class 4.
However, if a Class 7 vehicle is registered for recreation purposes, it becomes a Class 4 vehicle. Therefore, if you convert a Class 7 big panel van into a campervan or motorhome, changing it’s classification to a recreation vehicle will make life easier and cheaper for you.
Also note that you should insure you vehicle based on its classification. You cannot really insure a camper van as a panel van. Should you have to make a claim the insurance company are unlikely to pay if your vehicle is wrongly classified.
Let us know about your re-classification experiences in the comments below
V5
Hi Guys
Can anyone please help me on the V5 section I have to fill out. I looked at section 7H (Changes to current vehicle) and the part ”Tax Class” and it says,… ”The tax class shown in section 4 can only be changed when taxing. Please apply at your local DVLA office.”
Does this mean that I have to phsically go down there or should I just send the form.
One other point is what exactly to fill out in the V5:H7, Do I have to fill out the new weight? How does one find out?
Sorry for all the questions but there seems to be nowhere that helps/guides you to fill out this section of the V5 when doing a conversion.
Thanks a lot
Max
Hi Mate
Dont know about
Hi Mate
Dont know about filling in v5, but if you need to know the weight, all local councils have a weighbridge, you can use.
Thanks jack
Thanks and Gas
Hi many thanks about the bed, it will save me some much needed money not having to convert it to 6 foot exactly as Me and my wife are not 6 footers. Another issue I have is does the Gas bottle have to be in its own Safety box to satisfy DVLA or is it ok just being strapped down in a cupboard, at moment water tank is in there to. Ive had gas and elec check for insurance and it past though the guy did mention that i should move bottle to back doors and fit it in a metal safety box to change v5. Ive looked at some other conversions that past and they only seem to be strapped into a cupboard like mine.
Many thanks Craig
No, the gas bottles does not
No, the gas bottles does not have to be in its own safety box.
It is recommended to put it in a steel sheet lined box, accessible from the outside.
However, this is only a guideline. Even professional conversions have it inside sometimes.
You would be very unlucky for the DVLA guy to pick up on the gas bottle.
Make sure it is securely strapped in.
re-classification
Just to let every one know how easy it was to re classify my panel van to a moto caravan just sent pics of the conversion and a letter telling what had been done to the van and got my new v5 with in two weeks..
Hi John,
Can I ask how you
Hi John,
Can I ask how you filled out the V5, any pointers would be really apreciated. Finding this bit harder than converting the van lol
Thanks,
Max
Changing V5 from Van to Motor caravan
I did exactly the same. 10 photos which I numbered and a note that corresponded to the photos, telling the DVLA what each photo was depicting. Got my new log book back 2 weeks later with the body type changed to “Motor Caravan”…….Simple’s
Insurance
Hey people.
Here’s a little story to keep in mind when setting out on a camper van conversion. You can’t (according to Adrian Flux)insure a camper van if you are unemployed. Lets just kick a guy when he’s down shall we.
Also, what is with not being able to add a extra seat in the back of a van, Auto Net Insurance won’t touch any van that has been modified in any way, Even if the seat is fitted by a reputable company etc… But they are cheap insurance.
Anyway, not having a good day with the insurance bods. Think I’ll be posting my nearly finished converted van on fleabay and be done with all the stress.
Regards. Chris.
Can’t insure if you’re not
Can’t insure if you’re not employed? That’s discrimination really. There are lots of people with lots of money who are unemployed. I used to be regularly unemployed, as I worked irregular contracts, and enjoyed time off. But always have enough money to pay my van insurance.
insurance
Adrian Flux lol, they would not take as no claims proof, a letter from my previous company ( saga )stating 4 yrs with saga and 45% no claims or a new re-newal policy from saga to me offering 45% no-claims from previous policy, good job i were nt unemployed then !!!!
Hi try campton insurance
Hi try campton insurance http://www.campton.co.uk [phone number removed] their prices are competitive and they are very helpful and will insure the vehicle whilst the build is in progress, I think the build has to be completed within 3 months
Bed
High I have recently purchased a self build from a friend and am currently getting it to DVLA regulations to change V5, The bed having to be 6 foot is causing problems as I have to extend it by a foot as width van is 5, 11 so to short, can the diagonal measure be used as this is over 6 foot and if so would save me purchasing more wood for an extension of the bed.
Many Thanks
Craig
Hi Craig
These guidelines are
Hi Craig
These guidelines are often just guidelines, rather than strict rules that the DVLA will adhere to.
Chances are, than an inspector would not measure the bed. If the bed looked big enough, they will probably be happy.
If I were you, I would not worry about it, as it will probably be fine. However, just be prepared for them to reject it, just in case.
Converting to campervan
I am currently working on a Transit long wheelbase 1999 that I purchased from a friend in November. It is registered as a panal van and ive been trying to get it upto scratch as a Campervan on the V5. Ive installed suitable wardrobecupboard space and Just finnishing the Table. The Bed needing to be 6 foot though is a problem as when folded out its 5 11 by 5 foot though the diagonal is way over 6 foot. Can I use the diagonal length? It will save me purchasing more wood.
gas locker
im half way through a build and am at the cooker stage,
i have a gas bottle which will be secured to the van wall and a cooker that will be secured on top of a built unit next to the bottle,
i was going to have a flexi pipe connect the two as its only what 30 cm away?,
can i use this or would i need rigid copper piping fitted? and would i need the bottle in a sealed gas locker?
great site by the way!
Flexi pipe is fine. If your
Flexi pipe is fine. If your pipe is more than a few years old replace it. The pipe starts to crack after a while.
self build mpv ?
hi there im about to embark on converting a toyota estima / Lucida into a campervan but its classed as an 7 seater car, its obviously not a van so not too sure where i stand with that, i have plans for a double bed, cupboard with cooker sink all the requirements , would this be a good vehicle to convert to be re classified as a camper and will insurers insure it as a camper, cheers for creating this great site by the way !
Hmm, tricky one this. I an
Hmm, tricky one this. I an not sure if you can re-classify it as a campervan. The DVLA might want to keep it as a car.
Regarding insurance, you need to check with the insurance companies if they are happy to insure it.
So I would recommend.
Contacting insurance companies to see if they will insure it. They may be happy to insure it as a car, or they may be happy to insure it as a campervan, without you having to re-register it as a campervan. Try http://www.campton.co.uk, I have found them a very useful broker.
If you do need to re-classify as a campervan, which I doubt you will, then contact the DVLA and see if they are happy to do that.
Estima conversion re registering
Dont know if this will help but I’ve owned a 1994 registered estima seven seater for a number of years having bought it from a friend who’d bought it from the importer. It came registered as a motor caravan. We always assumed it was because it has factory fitted curtains and the hot/cool box as many of the older ones do as a standard option.
Thank you!
Thank you for all the advise on this site!!
I brought a 1990 Merc 208D, that had had a ‘coach built’ interior, as a day van, a few years ago, but she is still registered as a LGV.
Due to the introduction of the LEZ where I live, (which is well outside of london – may I add!!!) from Jan 2012, I have followed the above advise- remove the additional seats, and fix a 6ft sofa bed etc, and taken photo’s ++ with a letter identifying the evidence to the requirements, and sent the V5 off to Swansea,(4+ weeks ago) and apart from changing to a motorhome on the V5 – we are hoping to also downplate to 2.5kg,
otherwise I will have to try and find £2.5K to get a particle filter fitted to comply with the (money making) LEZ regulations.
I brought my van / specifically looked for a Merc with the knowledge that they are ‘bullet proof’ and sound engines, she passes each and every MOT without problems, (I have all the paperwork since 1990) I can not understand how it is greener for me to scrap a (much loved) fully working van – with years more life in her and to buy a new one?
So fingers crossed we receive all the paperwork changed from the DVLA, will let you know!!
Great to hear you are
Great to hear you are re-classifying your vehicle.
Please let us know when you hear back.
The LEZ is such a silly scheme. You are so right about scrapping the van. It makes no sense.
Well, I got the V5 in the
Well, I got the V5 in the post this am, they have re-classified her to a motor caravan, with out any problems, but only down plated to 2.8KG, not 2.5KG, which means the van is still not exempt from the LEZ….. so, I will be ringing them up and questioning why they have not reduced to 2.5KG and try and push for this to happen!!
Well done on the
Well done on the V5.
Downplating might require an inspection.
See what they say.
So the down plating went
So the down plating went through smoothly, I sent to certificate SVTECH provided me with, and the DVLA changed the V5. unfortunatley the TFL low emissions website said my van was still not meeting their requirements – so I contacted SVTECH and they asked me to fax over my V5 – and they would contact TFL for me – same done and with in 10 mintes my van was coming up as **EXEMPT** I can not thank SVTECH enough for their service!! I am so so so happy that I dont need to scrap or sell my much much loved camper!! She is legal now!!!
I think the issue is that the
I think the issue is that the weight of the van is classified as unladen. so removing extra seats would not effect the weight. but let us know if they cave in. I have similar issue my van is 3k kg unladen however my van is 2002 so im safe for now.
Well, we’ve ended up going to
Well, we’ve ended up going to a company called SVTECH that we heard about on a few other forums, they have down plated her to under 2.5 ton (sorry!! not KG as I’ve previously posted!!) really easy – sent in copies of V5, some photos of the conversion, origional weight plate, and the weighbridge certificate and a cheque and they sent back a new plate, certificate for us to send off to the DVLA, so still waiting as only sent it off to DVLA this week but will let you all know how we go. (Cant wait to drive her again, its been months!! but she still started first time last sat when I checked!!)
Change of class
I hope someone can help please, I have a land rover discovery, which I know use for my company, I want to change it to a commercial vehicle, how do i go about this???
Thanks
Harry
Hi Harry
What do you want to
Hi Harry
What do you want to do?
Who currently owns the landrover, you or the business?
i dont really get which bit of advice to follow
i dont really understand. at the top of this page is says.
“you have the option of re-registering your van as a “motor caravan” with the DVLA. It is not a requirement to re-register the vehicle. You can continue to use the vehicle as a campervan, even if it is still registered as a “panel van”, assuming you have adequate (i.e. campervan) insurance.”
And on the insurance page it says this….
“ensure that you have re-classified your vehicle as a camper van, and then get it insured as a camper van (see above). This is important to ensure you are covered legally, but you will also get other benefits such as cheaper road tax.”
These appear to be completely conflicting pieces of advice. i personally have insured my van as a camper and they said i have 3 months to get it changed. It is ready to be done officially but now with this new thing about looking like a camper from the outside, i am afraid to send off the forms until i have more info my three months is nearly up and i wont be around for the next six weeks to do it so its now or never. does this mean i am breaking the law, or wont be covered in the event of an accident. because the first bit seems to say i am fine because I’m ensured as a camper but not switched under the dvla. and the second says i may not be covered. any comments or clarifying info would be most appreciated.
Hi, sorry about that. The
Hi, sorry about that. The second section you quote is a little out-of-date, and not entirely clear.
You don’t have to re-registrer your van as a campervan to insure it as a campervan.
Whether you are insured or not is between you and your insurance company, and nothing to do with the DVLA.
Your insurance company might give you an extension to the 3 months to convert.
It seems now that the DVLA have relaxed the rules about re-classifying vehicles as campervans, so it is worth trying to re-register yours.
I haven’t re-registered my campervan, and have it insured as a campervan via http://www.campton.co.uk
Merc508D homely conversion…
G’deve all….I have a merc 508D i bought it two years ago for a steal, was told it wont last more than 6 months, was getting sluggish. So it became a project. I fitted bed, kitchen, sink, clothes storage, seating plan, and a wood burning fire. I have been enjoying it for 2 years now, many delicious meals have been made in my oven. We travelled far my 4 yr old and i, part business part pleasure. I want to take it to europe. And was wondering if changing the classation on it from a private van to a motorcaravan, i know the costs for insurance may vary. There is little luck out there to travel for more than 90days on my current insurance, without it costing the earth, plus breakdown cover. Should i insure as a motor caravan and begin the long process to declassify it, whilst im in motion in europe, will i be accepted to cross boarders without correct insurance….im very confused….and am seeing that the time for the process to be underway could take more than 5weeks…im running out of time…
Some light on the situation would be very grateful…
You have little reason to
You have little reason to change it to Motorcaravan.
For insurance try a broker like http://www.campton.co.uk. I insure my van, not re-registered as a campervan, for a good price through them.
You should have no problem at borders with the insurance. They will not worry about the classification of the vehicle.
You should just concentrate on the insurance. Try the brokers, they can probably find you an insurance policy for more than 90 days,
I know it’s an old thread but…
I have a Panel van converted to a camper. I have put a window in the side and checked with my insurance company about window vans and they said they do not insure vans with windows! I have got a decent quote from camptons to cover me as a camper van but i need to prove that the conversion fits their criteria within 3 months. Did they ask you to do this and if so how did you get it approved. I am thinking my MOT garage but worried they might refuse the responsibility?
Hi
My insurance is with
Hi
My insurance is with Campton. I had to get the form completed also. I went to a local campervan dealer, and he was happy to sign off the form for me.
I also contacted a motorhome dealer and they were also happy to complete the form.
A local MOT centre didn’t want to do it as they said they couldn’t comment on the value of the vehicle.
Thanks
Thanks for the reply. I will find out frommy MOT people first then find some local campervan dealers and ask them!
Thanks
t5 conversion
Hi have a t5 vw window van 56 reg. My question is, On the v5 states it is a window van. But it has 9 seats, So insurers will only insure it as a minibus. Costing me £800 per year. I asked dvla and was told they cannot comment on insurance or say if ok to take seats out to alter from minibus. I would like to change it, by putting a hightop on and converting the inside to a campervan. Will I be allowed to do this and if I do will it be classed as a motor caravan and bring my insurance down? Will, as I have been reading here, I need to change the exterior in some way?
You are perfectly allowed to
You are perfectly allowed to convert the vehicle, as long as it’s consider safe on the road.
The important thing here is the insurance. You need to get the right insurance, that will cover you from mini-bus to van, and during the conversion.
I have found http://www.campton.co.uk to be a very good broker.
To re-register the vehicle as a Motor Caravan you need to satisfy the DVLA of the requirements on this page, and it also has to look like a motorhome from the outside.
You dont need to re-register it though, as long as you have the right insurance.
window van/minibus
Thanks for that. Will be contacting Campton a.s.a.p. Converting inside first I think, cheapest bit. Roof will need more expert work than I can give. Will be glad just to get insurance down to what I think it should be. Only 6 seats in now. So will work from there. Will let you know how I get on Thanks again.
Peter.
DVLA revise their rule change on campervan conversions
Very informative, and encouraging!
From http://www.ukmotorhomes.net/motorhome-mot.shtml
DVLA revise their rule change on campervan conversions
[last updated 13th September 2011]
Up until recently anyone who converted a commercial vehicle to a motorhome or campervan could apply to the DVLA for the ‘body type’ classification on the V5C Registration Document to be changed to ‘motor caravan’. However we heard that recent requests to change the body type classification were being refused by DVLA.
We asked them what new criteria were being applied, this is the response we received:
When describing the external appearance of a vehicle DVLA applies a ‘reasonableness test’ which is based on how a member of the public or police would describe the vehicle in traffic or if parked on the road. This is a longstanding procedure. Whilst vehicles kept or used on public roads in Great Britain must meet both domestic and European regulations such as Type Approval, DVLA body type descriptions are a separate entity to approval requirements.
However, as DVLA have recently seen an increase in the number of applications to change the body type description on the vehicle registration document (V5C) to motor caravan, we reviewed the body type description ‘motor caravan’ in conjunction with the police and the ABI.
There was a clear consensus that the body type should reflect the outward appearance of a vehicle rather than its internal fixtures and fittings. As a result only vehicles first registered as motor caravans or those fitted with a custom coach built bodies, in addition to meeting the internal ‘checklist’ should be described as ‘motor caravan’ on the V5C.
We are aware that some motorists have complained that insurance premiums can be higher if the body type for converted vehicles does not show motor caravan. However the ABI have advised that insurance premiums would normally be calculated based on the information provided by the customer. They further advised that customers should make their insurers aware of any modifications made to the vehicle and this would be taken into account when the premium is calculated.
This seemed to us to represent a very narrow interpretation of the term ‘motor caravan’ and appeared to impose much stricter requirements than those required by EU Type Approval legislation. Taken at face value it seems to mean that NO conversions of any type of vehicle that has been previously registered will be able to re-register with a change of body type to motor caravan (unless they have had a coachbuilt body fitted), even bone-fide professional conversions that any reasonable person would consider to be a motor caravan.
It had implications for speed limits, since the term ‘motor caravan’ is used to determine that passenger vehicle, rather than goods vehicle, speed limits apply. MOT tests are another potential problem area where the type of test which is applicable may be affected if a vehicle is not described as a motor caravan on the V5C. For vehicles over 3500kg GVW it is possible that the regulations relating to drivers hours and the fittment of speed limiters and tachographs may also apply if the vehicle is not described as a motor caravan on the V5C.
We now hear that, following many complaints about the new policy, they have re-examined the issue. We asked for an explanation of the revised policy and received the following:
Apologies for the delay in replying we have been further reviewing our policy around the allocation of bodytype descriptions for motorcaravans taking into account the views of customers/key stakeholders like yourself. Recognising the impact the policy may have on professional converters and our customers who self build I am pleased to inform you that following a further review the policy will allow greater flexibility for vehicles which have been modified both internally and externally from the manufacturers original specification after first registration and consideration will be given to conversions which have been carried out professionally where the customer can provide documentary evidence from the converter or a self build conversion where the customer can provide documentary evidence of the build.
In addition to documentary evidence customers will still be required to provide external and internal photographic evidence of the conversion/build and also return their V5C for amendment. As previously advised cases can vary significantly and DVLA deals with each case individually, based on the photographic and documentary evidence provided by the customer/registered keeper. DVLA will continue to consider applications requesting a change of body type description but we will need to consider both the internal and external appearance of a vehicle. I should advise you that conversions will still be required to meet the internal criteria required for a motorhome/motorcaravan but greater flexibility will be applied to the external appearance of a vehicle.
We submitted photos of a panel van, which had been converted some years after it’s original registration, to them for appraisal. Under the ‘original’ revised policy, as far as we can tell, it would have been classed as a ‘van with windows’, now they have confirmed that it would be classified as a ‘motor caravan’.
It seems to us that there should now be no difficulty in registering a conversion as a motor caravan, providing that the conversion meets the ‘reasonableness test’ and that the exterior has been modified by at least having windows fitted.
REGISTERING A VAN AS A MOTOR CARAVAN
Congratulations on the excellent article, and on the very useful info submitted by those having issues.
I think I may be in a fortunate position. Having taken my van out of the country for >1 year, I was obliged to declare it exported, and therefore when I brought it back recently, it was regarded as being imported. I will therefore be registering it ‘from scratch’ unlike the majority of contributors who are seeking a change in classification. I will let you know how I get on as I try to get it registered Class 4.
However, I am appalled by the way DVLA seem to be playing fast and loose with the regulations. The ‘looks like a motorcaravan’ requirement does not seem to appear anywhere in the regs. If that is the case, why hasn’t anyone talked to their MP about what appears to be a flagrant abuse of power? And don’t tell me that MPs are useless: some are, but generally, if an MP follows up a constituent’s concern with the relevant dept/agency (which most do), the latter take note big time!
Interesting to hear of your
Interesting to hear of your different position.
Please do let us know how you got along.
RE-TAXING
HI THERE, I HAVE CONVERTED MY MAstervan minibus to a full campervan and can deal with the paperwork for the dvla. The problem i have is that it originally was a 17 seater@3900kg, the previous owner, removed two seats and got a class 4 mot for me but it still says minibus and is still rated at 3900kg. Can i convert it back to 3500kg easily so that the AA will relay me in??
thanks Rich
It seems that you need to
It seems that you need to fill in paperwork and maybe get the vehicle inspected.
See this thread: http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=12987
I would recommend contacting the DVLA and see what they say.
low emissions zone
i have a vw 1999 t4 2.5cc tdi its on the log book as a motor caravan but the log book dose not state the weight,dose any one no the weight of a t4 short wheel base the low emission booklet states moter caravans that have to pay £100 a day if they are 2.5 to 3.6 tonnes gross vehicle weight is there any way my van being exempt from the emission charge. thanks
VW T4 vans are at least 2.8
VW T4 vans are at least 2.8 tonnes I believe.
Sprinter van to MPV-Minibus-Camper
Hello all, I am thinking of buying a LWB sprinter to convert to people carrier cum camper i intend to fit a cooker, fridge, oven, shower,toilet but i also want up to 11 or 12 seats( from VW sharans so they are removable foldable and can change layout, I intend to use seatbelts and mounts from doner VW sharans. my current VW T5 Shuttle(9seats) is great but a bit cramped when you are on hoiladay with 9 people in it. The T5’s V5 says it is a MPV and taxed as a diesel car. I dont want to have to psv as a minibus or pay the extra for minbus insurance and tax, any ways around this? It will look like a minicoach from the outside, so going by you problems in getting camper status i might have to pay the extra. Or put beds in and go for camper status and then make them removable after change?
I am in Norther Ireland, so unsure if your curent problems apply.
Thanks
K.
what year is your sprinter
what year is your sprinter
Which form?
Hi,
Sorry if this is a stupid question but I have recently bought a camper still reistered as a ‘panel van’ the insurance company have told me I have to re-register it as a motor caravan within 30 days. Does anyone know which forms do I need to fill out for this?
Thanks
Read the section above
Read the section above titled: How to Change a Vans Classification to Camper Van or Motorhome in the UK
Some insurance companies allow you to insure a camper van that has not be reregistered with the DVLA. Mine is like this. A full camper van but still as a panel van on the V5 document.
The insurance company send a form which you take to a camper van dealer. They tick boxes on the form, indicating to the insurance company that the camper is a proper one.
I used http://www.campton.co.uk for my insurance.
Problems
I own a mercedes sprinter 308 which started out life as a panel van, the previous owner converted it to a campervan, so i thought id re reg it as a campervan as i thought a good job had been made to the conversion and the colour was wrong on the v5.
Anyway i sent 2o images of vehicle to dvla, on high gloss paper,front and back images, n/s of vehicle,o/s of vehicle,drivers cab,showeroom etc etc, it has 240v hook up, 30 ltr water tank,gas,12v battery,bed which turn into l-shaped seating area, table with fixed base,12v lighting,skylights,fride,cooker,shower, fixed high storage cupboards etc! although i dont have the reciepts i thought the v5 would be no problem!
6 weeks later, various phone calls to check up on progress of v5 dvla swansea recieved new v5 with correct colour yes! but still panel van on log book- no explanation at all feel fed up as spent time presenting vehicle and written itemised list to dvla, thought at least they would have asked be to go local office, the vehicle is insured as campervan like yours ed!, but like to play by the book, think dvla rules are all over the place- the vehicle is metallic,has graphics,window,chrome trims!
panel van
just fill your v5 in and send in photos to dvla
reclassifying from minibus to camper with DVLA
Hi all
I thought I’d share this on here as I’ve pulled a few great bits of info from here in the past and thought I’d share this. After finishing an Iveco 35-10 disabled access minibus to a camper conversion I started looking into the ramifications of changing the class and insurance. The first thing I did (and beware all!) was notify my current insurance company of the modifications-they instantly cancelled my cover as they don’t cover campers, they then had the cheek to charge me a cancellation fee (which I’m still refusing to pay). I got replacement cover from a company called “Insurance Choice” for a substantial discount, the one premise was that within 90 days I had to have the DVLA re-class the vehicle as a camper, having read all the prerequisites for this I prepared a 2 page document covering all the work done, before and after pictures, filled out the form (V62 I think?) and waited in the queue at the local DVLA office. The main thing I was worried about was this “new” policy that it must “look like a camper” as mine is basically just a big minibus with blacked out windows, however after standing in line for 35 minuets the girl just stamped the forms, never even glanced at my carefully prepared work and sent me on way after about 60 seconds-the lesson I think is go to the local DVLA office at lunchtime on the very last day of the month, absolute pandemonium and huge queues but at least they didn’t take any time to look at my paperwork….
anyway thanks for all the great info on here
Liam
dvla local office a no go
i drove my renault trafic conversion to lincoln dvla with the intention of changing the log book to motor caravan , i was told as of the 1st of september all aplictions have to go through dvla swansea , you need a covering letter listing all the work done , pictures of all 4 sides and the inside of van , and the reciepts for the items you bought for the conversion , they will then decide if your conversion is worthy of a new clasification.
im going to struggle with the reciepts as i normally throw them away lol
chris
how long does it normally
how long does it normally take from submitting your application to getting it back , i sent mine 2 weeks ago and have had no reply yet , im getting worried its lost , i have checked online and the database shows no changes yet , also my insurance is sending leters threatening to cancel my insurance , allthough they said i had 3 months to submit my v5 i had a reminder after 6 weeks and then a letter with a threat to cancel after 8 and 9 weeks , i currently have 2 weeks to go till the 3 months is up and have a letter stating if they do not recieve v5 by tomorrow they will cancel insurance.
chris
how long does it normally
Hi Chris
it was over 5 weeks before my V5 came thru, had the same letters from insurance company but when I phoned them and explained they were very reasonable and told me not to worry.
Liam
Great news. Well done.
Great news. Well done. Thanks for letting us know.
I just sent all the info away
I just sent all the info away and got my new V5 through the post. I included my email address in case they need any more info/pics to speed things up if there were any problems. They were obviously happy and didn’t need anything else. I dont think there’s anything to worry about as long as you have done a decent job and meet their criteria. I was also changing over from disabled tax to PLG and the insurance savings being a motor caravan just about make up the tax I now pay – should also add a few quid to the value of the van.
Forgot to say that I wasn’t
Forgot to say that I wasn’t asked to provide receipts so there might be a bit of inconsistency from DVLA.
Van windows
I have a Merc Vito panel van that i’ve kind of converted to a dualiner. I’ve took the 3 seats out the front and replaced them with 2 single seats. I’ve also fitted 2 single seats in the back, with seat belts on unwin rails. And I’ve just had windows fitted in both of the sliding side doors. I don’t need a van for work, its basically my car that I can chuck mountain bikes in the back and go away for a weekend and also sleep in.
What I would like to know is should I inform DVLA on my alterations and my insurance is due in Oct. Do I inform them aswell and can it be insured as a car rather than a comercial vehicle???
Vinnie
Hi Vinnie
Yes. Inform the
Hi Vinnie
Yes. Inform the DVLA and your insurance company. It probably won’t change your insurance, but if you don’t tell them of the alterations they won’t cover you.
insurance
just a word on vito conversion.
I bought a vito and converted it to dualiner, the insurer doubled the premium and excesses and refused to cover more than 3 people (as per standard van) they then decided to up the premium AGAIN because the old policy said VAN and the new one VITO and vitos are more expensive than vans,,,,,,,,,,, how the hell do they make a difference on the SAME vehicle insured BY THEM for 4 years with the SAME REG……… HOW CAN IT BE DIFFERENT this argument is NOT the dualiner bit.
Dead link
Just to let you know that the link to motor caravan import regulations now points to an archived page and is no longer current. I haven’t been able to track the document down elsewhere.
Please feel free to delete this comment!
Thanks. The government
Thanks. The government website had archived the page. But I managed to find it on their archive site, and have changed the link.
motor caravan registration.
I found this at the DOT site – it might help
http://www.dft.gov.uk/vosa/repository/Motor%20Caravans%20-%20Advice.pdf
pictures of what is or isn’t a motor caravan
camper vans
i have spent the last three years 365 days a year in my van i stayed in my mums the other night but could not rest i went back to my camper and sweet dreams houses are over rated
You can’t sleep 24/7/365 in your camper
Beware using your camper to live in as my insurance company told me i’m only covered for holidays using the camper.. not for living in it
In that case they told me i would not be insured.
This was advice they gave me during taking my details to calculate the Premium.
rgds
Tony
My insurance policy allows me
My insurance policy allows me to live in my van 365 days a year. I got it through the broker http://www.campton.co.uk
water tank
hi , anyone know if i can use an aquaroll plugged in to inlet housing on side of van , just like normal caravan, ie , is it ok for requierments?
Generally no. The DVLA and
Generally no. The DVLA and insurance companies are generally looking for a “fixed” water tank, this never moves from it’s position.
However, some people have had vehicles re-classified by the DVLA without checking the fittings very well.
DVLA enquiry
I there, I’ve been thinking about getting a small van and converting it into a weekend camper. With all what has been said about being refused re-licencing to campervan, I was wondering if I fit my van with a pop-top, would this be enough to say it looks like a camper from the outside? All the other hoops I need to jump through are not a problem, It’s just this one.
Dean M
The best way to make it look
The best way to make it look like a campervan is to add graphics. This seems to be what the DVLA and police are after.
A poptop is not so easy to see when it’s down. It may not be enough.
It is worth checking with the DVLA.
ireland regulations
Hi, we’d like to buy a van and convert. Are the rules for Ireland the same as the UK? I can’t seem to find it on the net. Has anybody experience with buying a van in England an bringing it over? How costly did that get? Also hard to find straight regulations about that on the net. Thanks!
Irish Requirements
Hi I am also looking relocate to Ireland and am interested to find out about the legalities regarding change of registration (camper – self-conversion) and any info regarding how easy it is to insure a conversion there. One thing I do know is that if you have owned the vehicle for over 6 months then you do not have to pay import tax on it. Is may also be worth noting that for older vehicles, registered before June 2008, road tax is charged according to engine sie (Jan 2011)
2 401 – 2 500 = Euro 935 /yr 2 501 – 2 600 = Euro 1120 /yr
2 601 – 2 700 = Euro 1164 /yr 2 701 – 2 800 = Euro 1204 /yr
2 801 – 2 900 = Euro 1248 /yr 2 901 – 3 000 = Euro 1293 /yr
3 001+ = Euro 1566 /yr … quite a lot extra really.
Do you know if you need an engineers report for insurance purposes if it is a conversion?
Is camper insurance lower there, as it is in the uk?
ambulance to campervan
I am considering buying an ambulance which has been well converted with bed/two settees, sink, cooker,fridge,WC, but seller hasn’t registered it as a campervan. Am I taking a risk? How much does it cost to reregister?
Thanks
Don’t worry. You do not need
Don’t worry. You do not need to re-register the vehicle as a campervan to use it. With the right insurance you can drive and camp in the vehicle legally.
Right now the DVLA are making it harder to re-register vehicles to campervans. I would wait for now. The cost is free.
For insurance try http://www.campton.co.uk
Re registering Ambulance as van with windows
We have recently bought an ambulance/old people’s home 8 seater minibus plus wheelchair capacity. LWB Volkswagen LT 31 high top. We have redone the inside but no change to the outside. It is currently registered as am abulance with nil tax. Do we have to register a change of use to a van with winsows or can we simply insure and tax it as a van?
crew cab vans
Hi I WANT TO BUY A CREW CAB VAN HIGH ROOF WITH EXISTING WINDOWS MICROWAVE AND SINK MAKE THE BACK INTO A GARAGE FOR A M/BIKE LOWER THE ROOF GARAGE TO BE MY BED WHAT ELSE DO I NEED,I WANT TO TOUR EUROPE PLEASE ANY HELP WOULD BE GRATEFUL MY KIDS THINK I’M MAD AT MY AGE [72] I TELL THEM LIFE IS TO SHORT NO ONE GETS OUT OF HERE ALIVE LOOK FORWARD TO WHAT EVER HELP YOU CAN GIVE LADS REGARDS FRANK
Hi Frank
I think it’s a
Hi Frank
I think it’s a brilliant idea.
I’d have a sink, with hot water if possible. If you are staying on campsites then a microwave is great. If you’re wild camping you’ll need a gas stove/oven. Microwaves don’t work well on batteries.
And a toilet is generally a must, unless you’ll always stay on campsites.
Crew Cab Vans
Hi
I am nearly at the end of converting a crew bus into camper van usin an old caravan for parts etc. Pros for the crew bus are that most of the electrics are in place, van is often lined (But not always insulated very well) and in my case had a diesel internal heater and toilet comnpartment already fitted.Also windows already fitted
Against is that to personalise the van to my needs I had to undo a great deal of the work already done. i.e making the toilet compartment smaller adding/changing electrics.
On the whole though it now looks a very professional build.
Hi Des
Thanks for sharing
Hi Des
Thanks for sharing your experiences with your conversion, especially considering it’s a crew cab.
I think people would love to see what you have done.
Why not become a member, for free, and create a photo album and upload your photos.
Or, use the contact form to email me, then I’ll reply and you can email me some photos.
So frustrated – our experience with DVLA…
We sent off our paperwork early May – I had made a booklet with photos and details of all alterations to our transit bus – retaining 6 seats, removing 6 rearmost seats and fitting kitchen unit, seating, full size bed etc… had a letter back yesterday saying that they required photos (doh, I did send them, they were returned in a hand-written envelope a week or so after with a DVLA comps slip) and having spoken to the woman who dealt with our request she is saying that unless the van is obviously altered externally to look like a camper she cannot re-classify it as such… am soooooo frustrated!
Having further asked what is required – she said that a complete change of body – as done by a professional, so it has an over cab bed or similar would be the sort of thing they are after “so that if it got stolen the police are looking for something that looks obviously like a motorcaravan” grrrrr
I am now writing to a customer services dept within DVLA (who are not “customer facing”!!!!) to find out whether we can re-classify it as an MPV, or even WHAT it can be re-classified as…!!! Here’s hoping someone can give me a straight answer as my phonecalls this morning have been anything but!
dvla regitrations as campervan
I have tried to get my citroen relay minibus ,reregistered as motor caravan ,but have received the refusal letter,that many others have recently got (DOES NOT LOOK LIKE A CAMPERVAN FROM THE OUTSIDE)!So reclassified as van with windows. The van has been converted in accordance with the guidelines on this site,and is a proper conversion,having used the interior of a quality caravan,ie cooker, gas fire,water heater,shower ,cassette toilet ,zig etc.
I have today telephoned DVLA and politely asked “what do I need to do to make it look like a campervan from the out side? I was told that DUE TO A POLICY CHANGE IN THE LAST THREE WEEKS OR SO””That I WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO CHANGE THIS TO MOTORCARAVAN AS IT WAS NOT BUILT AS ONE FROM NEW”. WELL The minibus was not a minibus when it was built IT WAS CONVERTED BY A VAN CONVERSION COMPANY.
So are we now to believe that all the small companies specializing in camper conversions are to go out of buisness,because most camper conversion are done after manufacture as a van!
I was also told “YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO COMPLAIN ” but everyone that had ,have received the same reply (SO DONT WASTE YOUR TIME)
I would like to know the numbers of people involved having applications refused,as I think a fight against this should be organised.As the reasons given for refusal are not logical.
Sorry to hear about
Sorry to hear about this.
Things are very unclear at the moment.
I haven’t re-classified my conversion, as there is no benefit in me doing so. I still have it insured as a campervan, and can legally drive it and camp in it.
insurance
if you claim for a rightoff on your VAN insurance you may get the value of the van,but if it is registered as a caravan this may be valued higher after all these insurance companys dont pay out unless they have to and would probably argue that its only a van
It’s very important to insure
It’s very important to insure a campervan as such. One must agree the value of the campervan with the insurance company. Always have lots of photographs, and receipts.
DVLA V5
Hey guys,
This may seem like a really dumb question (thoughts to yourselves on that one 😉 but I have recently converted a FIAT Ducato Ambulance (minibus) and would like to change the classification to motorhome. My question is which/what part of the V5 logbook do I have to fill out?
Thanks,
Mango
change to camper
best of luck 2 u i sent mine in 4 months ago with 25 photos they lost them still waiting
A strange one for ya! Motor caravan to panel van.
Hi everyone. I’ve got a different angle to most people.
I’m self employed and I drive a very boring car to and from work. However back at home I am lucky enough to have a 1956 VW splitscreen campervan. I am also lucky enough to be very, very busy with work. But sadly this has meant I haven’t had any spare time to drive my camper for the past 3 years and I’m gutted about it!
Recently my accountant has advised me to ditch the car and get a van. So brainwave, use the VW as the company van.
Problem is the VW is registered as a Motor Caravan and the accountant tells me the VAT man won’t accept it as a van.
It’s a Kombi (so it has got side windows which I guess might be the main issue) but there is presently nothing in the back and just two seats up front.
How easy would it be to get DVLA to change it over and can anyone forsee any problems?
And more important has anyone had hassle from the dreaded VAT man after doing this?
Thanks.
Nice to hear from
Nice to hear from you.
Recently the DVLA have been reluctant to reclassify vans to Motor Caravans that did not look like a motorhome from the outside. So I don’t think they will have any problem changing the classification of yours to a van with windows. If you submit a modified V5 document to DVLA Swansea they will probably do it no problem.
Regarding the VAT, I’m no expert. It will depend on your business. If the VW is classified as a van, and you need a van for your business there will be no problem.
If you need a campervan for your business, which is rare, then you could keep it as a campervan.
It all depends on what your business requires to operate.
campervan
any chance of selling vw
dvla requirements and insurance
hi, just bought a ldv 400 convoy lwb and it is part converted into camper. It has seats that convert to double bed, with piece of wood like in a caravan. It has a sink but no tap? and a cupboard. I take it to meet water storage requirements i could just place a white and black container in cupboard under sink. The problem is cooking, can i just screw down my own camping hob and put gas bottle in cupboard underneath, i have normal hose and connector is this enougth? insurance say i need gas certificate? or the other alternative is to just buy a microwave and fix it. How do i fix it into place? and then was quoted £500.00 for simple elec hook up with sockets inside and a battery. Is that a good price? any help greatly appreciated, thanks x
Hi. Are you trying to get
Hi. Are you trying to get the vehicle re-classified as a campervan?
The DVLA seem to have become more strict recently. They are looking for something that looks like a quality conversion overall. So everything has to look right. You may be borderline with your vehicle.
Do you need to get it re-classified? I have my Sprinter campervan, but not re-classified. I have proper campervan insurance through http://www.campton.co.uk
There is no benefit in me re-registering the van as a campervan.
For yours, i think you will need a tap. The water containers under the sink will probably be enough.
Gas hob or microwave are enough, but they have to be secured. Maybe a microwave has some bolt holes in he back on underneath? if it has feet on the bottom maybe they can be removed and the screw holes used again?
£500 is quite expensive, but if this includes a battery it’s no so bad. Pretty good if this includes fitting a split-charge relay for charing the battery from the engine.
insurance
I just tried campton for insurance but they say they wont insure the van unless its reclassified by dvla as a campervan
So it now seems I have to reclassify the van to get the insurance
insuring a converted van
Adrian flux will insure it without change of classification. as long as it has been converted to be an obvious campervan. Just done it so know its ok.
yes we have insured our
yes we have insured our converted lwb sprinter with adrian flux for 5 years now and they are happy that it’s not registered with dvla as campervan. Seems like the simplest option and when I did a price search this summer they didn’t come out too badly against the companies that will only insure if re registered with dvla. We don’t drive in UK much so the speed limit not a major issue and never been a problem getting it through MOT, although appreciate this would be cheaper if reclassified, but the amount of time and effort this would need does not seem worth it.
conversion without a fixed Table
hi there
we have just finished converting a mercesdes sprinter 311 into a campervan. it s a propoer conversion with two side and tweo back windows fixed bed, kitchen will alliances, leisure batteries, seating area which folds in to a second bed etc but what we didnt put in a fixed table. we have a L shaped seatign area which seats six wich runs behind the driver seat and downt eh side of the van but there wasnt enough room for a fixed table so we have been using a fold up table which we store in the boot of the van. i was wondering if that would effect the re-classification to a Campervan ????
hmmm, they do ask for a side
hmmm, they do ask for a side window, but I know they don’t always check everything. If when they look, it looks like a proper conversion they are generally satisfied.
Some professional motorhomes do not have a fixed table. It is free standing, and put away when traveling. Perhaps you could do the same for the inspection?
Legality of fitting a towbar on a camper conversion?
Hi, I am asking this because I felt sure I had read somewhere online a few months ago… lord knows where… that a converted campervan could not legally tow – whether a trailer or caravan.
We are converting – have almost got to the stage where we can take photos of all the required elements for the DVLA – a Transit minibus into a campervan for our family of 5 – retaining 6 of the original 12 seats, and managing somehow to squeeze us all in and have a kitchen etc! As I currently still have a little 12ft caravan I am contemplating whether we might benefit from keeping that and having a towbar fitted to extend our camping space as the kids get older… but, like I say, I feel sure I read somewhere that there was some rule about not having a towbar fitted on to a converted vehicle…
Any info would be appreciated 🙂 Thanks
Hi
I think a converted van to
Hi
I think a converted van to campervan can still tow. I see no reason why it couldn’t. However, do the right thing and contact the DVLA. They should be able to confirm it for you.
Thanks
Thanks for your answer, just wish I could find the article I found a few weeks ago!
I will find out and will post my findings here in due course.
Great success!
Just had my Nissan Primastar re-registered as Motor Caravan. No inspections required or anything. Apart from the side windows, it does look identical to a panel van from the outside. Maybe they’re relaxing things a little bit.
Just make sure you show all the relevant bits in the photo.s and make sure you get some good shots of the number plate.
Good luck!
Great news, well done. Did
Great news, well done. Did you send your V5 to the national DVLA offices in Swansea, or to your local DVLA office?
Good advice about the number plates.
I was unsure about this so I
I was unsure about this so I just sent it to the DVLA in Swansea.
All I included was my original V5 and 10 laser printed A4 pictures of the vehicle, making sure to include a picture of everything that’s in your list above. No explanation of the work that was done seems to have been required.
you must have been a very lucky person
Mine Actually looks like a campervan ,with toilet access door ,water filler ,water heater,electric hook up etc, but looks like a van with windows according to DVLA.
Converstion
I have recently bought a T32 VW Panal van but looking at getting it converted.
I have taken the seats out and currently have them on e bay. Any idea what sort of price the 2+1 rear seats go for? I dont want to get seen off.
Currently the TAX is £425 per annum but am I right in thinking that if and when it is converted the tax will drop.
I got an eye on a company that will convert the van for £2900 -£3500
Insurance was for a van with 7 years NCB was £488 and left me with no NCB on my car. So was looking at flogging the car. But after I received a call from an insurance co, I have now canceled the VAN insurance of £488 and got it now full comp with a converted camper (as long as its done soon as & I dont use it day to day) for £200. Thats also with no NCB which leaves me with my 7year NCB on my car so i am now keeping the car and van as 2nd vehicle.
Only down side is the £425 Tax for the road. I just hope they can drop it. But if it goes on the engine emissions then im screwed.
Maybe £50 for the seats. It
Maybe £50 for the seats. It all depends on how many people want them, and where you live, if you’re doing collect only. I live in Cornwall and rarely get a good price for collection only items.
The tax doesn’t normally change once the vehicle has been re-classified.
How is it taxed? It seems high.
I got £800 for the 2 + 1
I got £800 for the 2 + 1 seats off a 2008 T32 VW.
I think you’ll do better than £50.
Ex MOD 4×4 as campervan.
Hello All
Would any one here care to comment on how this:
http://tinyurl.com/3osq7m4
might fare at the hands of VOSA/DVLA as a ‘campervan’?
As it stands currently, the vehicle would only have MOD release papers, so would be a ‘new’ civilian registration.
Regards
Roy
I would assume it would fall
I would assume it would fall under the same rules as other vehicles. I.e. cooking equipment required, 6ft bed, etc.
I’ve seen similar things, such as a Uni-Mog be converted to a campervan. I’m not sure if was re-registered as a campervan though.
Mazda Bongo registered as a campervan?
Hi guys
We are looking to buy a fully converted Mazda Bongo. Does anyone know if we will have similar problems with the DVLA if we are trying to re-register it as a campervan?
Also, does the amount of road tax change if it is registered as a campervan? Im from Ireland and at home its only 88EUR per year to tax a campervan but if its not classified as a campervan the tax could be as high as 450EUR per year so its obviously a big incentive.
Any info would be great.
Cheers
Hi
The defining factor seems
Hi
The defining factor seems to be weather you have stickers or graphics on the outside, making it look like a professional campervan conversion. If you have some of these you’ll probably be OK for re-registering as a campervan with the DVLA.
The amount of road tax is based on the size of the van and/or engine, and generally not the use of the vehicle (van vs campervan). So re-registering a Mazda Bongo is not going to change your taxation class.
Glad I dropped inon this
Glad I dropped inon this thread. looking to buy a campervan and I am being steered to a conversion as they seem relativly cheap. Must make sure the vehicle has been re-classified.
If the only objection is appearence ( and it sort of makes sense, if the vehicle is involved in an incident, a witness needs to be able to say “campervan”so the police can find it on there data base). Why not get a custom paint job or stickers. You know, a full row of false widows, a caravan type door painted on the side door, and “this is a camper van” in big letters down each side.
(Dont get a custom paint jod with black wooden horizontal and diagonal beams on tho’ or the police will spend hours driving around the country looking for a mock tudur VW0
gas bottles
Darren, thank you for your advice
Legal requirement re leisure batteries
Is there a legal requirement for leisure batteries to be secured? We recently brought (privately) a converted Van (our first ‘motorhome’) with an unsecured battery under the driver’s seat – after driving it for two days we booked it into our local garage for a service – they jacked the van up and the leisure battery (which was unsecured and had a tiny piece of fire retardant material over it) moved, the wires hit the bottom of the chair, this obviously made the driver’s chair ‘live’ then it caught alight. The current went down the handbrake and burnt all the cables. Quick action by the garage saved the van with damage only to the handbrake cables and the leisure battery cables. We phoned the guy we brought it from and told him what had happened(as he was intending to convert another van, it isn’t his full-time job) and asked if he would contribute towards fixing the damage caused, the next day he refused point blank to help out with the costs.
All fittings to a vehicle
All fittings to a vehicle must be safe and secure, especially heavy acid filled batteries. However, the responsibility is with the owner/driver of the vehicle.
I would think legally the previous owner has no obligation to help you now. But I would like to think they would out of responsibility.
It’s a shame this has happened to you. Whoever converted the van has not taken enough care to ensure the dangerous battery is secure.
I lost a lovely car a few
I lost a lovely car a few years back due to a mechanic not properly securing a battery. He paid in the end. The complete wiring loom went up in smoke when the +ve touched the chassis. ALWAYS secure batteries or you will learn the hard way.
gas bottles
does the the gas bottle have to be ventilated to the outside and the system be certificated by a qualified gas fitter, also similar question on the electrics do they need certification?
No, you don’t need to do thee
No, you don’t need to do thee things to have your own home converted campervan re-registered with the DVLA. Only commercial converters have to satisfy these requirements.
Some insurance companies will ask for a gas safety certificate, and electrical. Others will not.
difficulties getting insurance
Hi Darren, when looking to insure my van, I was asked wether there are any modifications to the vehicle. I asked wether they meant modifications to the engine, (big wheels etc.) and was told bluntly, ‘any modifications’ I told them it was a ‘private/self’conversion of a transit and I was told to get an Engineers report done. Do you know if this is called for by most insurers? also where do you get one done, would it be a mechanical engineer and any idea of the cost? You mentioned a safety cert, is this the same thing and where would you get one? Does your insurerer (campton, I think I saw mentioned) require this?
I guess its just the wireing and relay system and the gas installation that needs to be properly checked off… can’t imagine water to be an issue, could there be anything else tho.. I dont know where to find a list of criteria to work from.. any idea, the above definition has been helpful, but with regards these safety aspects that it seems needs an engineer to verify.
Also what shud I insure it as, a camper or a transit, or can it only be insured under the category stated in the log book? what if I insure as a transit van and if I have an accident… would I be covered? so many questions I kno but any help would be appreciated. Thanks
I’m not sure about the
I’m not sure about the engineers report. I’ve never seen one.
Yes, I got my insurance via http://www.campton.co.uk. They sent me a form that I took to a motorhome dealer. They tick off the boxes that indicate that the van has windows, a full bed, water tanks, etc. This informs the insurance company that the vehicle is a proper camper.
The vehicles is then insured as a popper camper van. It is still a Panel Van with the DVLA though. But this is all legal and OK.
I did not have to have electrics or gas inspected.
You need to insure your vehicle properly. If you use it as a camper van, and it’s obviously a camper van in the back, you need to insure it as a camper van. if your current insurance is difficult, change to another. Call other insurance companies and see what they say.
Panel van to Minibus????
I have a Mercedes Sprinter reg56 lwb panel van and I would like to add 4 to 6 seats and a pair of side windows to it and leave a few meters space at the back to put a mattress when on camping (I’m not into full-on camper conversion because I don’t have the money and I’m happy to crash on the floor. Obviously it wouldn’t be a ‘motor caravan’ nor a ‘panel van’ after seat/window conversion. I understand I need to re-register it but what would the classification be, minibus? MPV? Also would it be hard to find an insurance for a private/leisure purpose ‘minibus’ or what ever it may be called. Loving the site, plenty help here. Thank you.
Mini-buses have 8 to 16 seats
Mini-buses have 8 to 16 seats by the definition. If you have less seats than that the DVLA will likely re-classify the vehicle as a “Van with windows”.
I have found Campton insurance brokers to be very good in finding insurers who will insure partially converted vans.
http://www.campton.co.uk/
Tourer Vehicle classification?
I’ve got a 1982 VW LT31 high top camper van. It’s got all the stuff you’d expect (cooker, bed, table, cupboards etc.) and appears to be a professional conversion; it’s got a sticker on the side saying ‘special edition’ but no clue as to who did it.
However, the V5C registration document says it’s a ‘Tourer’. Anyone know what that means?
Calling all T5 California owners
Help needed. If anyone out there has a T5 California campervan as an original from VW (ie NOT converted), could they check there registration document to see what the vehicle is classified as. I am in dispute with the DVLA re my T5 transporter conversion as it does not “look like” a campervan from the outside (despite having an elevating roof!) However, it looks identical to the factory production vehicle (inside and out), so if yours has been classed as a “motor caravan” on the V5 doc, then I have a stronger case for the reclassification. Many thanx for your help. Just post a reply to this comment. Cheers, Freddie
hi
Last october after a self
hi
Last october after a self build i registered my vw t4 as a motorhome this made no differance to road tax but did make insurance cheaper through ic
i have now purchased a t5 and just in the process of designing it in to a motor home
i am now concerned that people are having problems re registering as a motorhome please keep us posted
New rules re reclassification of Campervan/Motorcaravan
Has anyone else has this?
Having recently brought a converted panel van, we attempted to reclassify it with the DVLA to a motorcaravan, ticking all the boxs on your website (and the DVLAs) re bed, windows, cookers, water supply etc etc, enclosing detailled photos. Recently received back a letter, and subsequent phone conversation, saying that because our VW T5 Transporter still looks like a van from the outside (albeit with side windows) the DVLA will not reclassify due to “authorities” (the police) cannot tell that it is a campervan from the outside (failing the fact that it has a chequer bonnet bra and chequer strips along the elevating roof!) We did point out that VW produce off the production line a “California” camper derivative that looks identical to our conversion, so we will forward the brochure and corresponding same angled photo of our van to them for consideration. Sorry to waffle, but this seems a lame excuse for non reclassification when clearly the T5 we have IS A CAMPERVAN. We haven’t just thrown a mattress in the back to try and screw the system for road tax or cheap insurance. Any advice or similar experiences appreciated. Freddie
aaargh!!! motorhome conversion re-registration
same/similar experience as below, I have been living in my converted 18tonne MAN hgv for past two years and kept it as hgv on v5 and for mot, want it now changed to motor caravan as italian was willing to give me £10,000 but didn’t buy due to not being motorhome, looks like I will have to re mot and advertise again, but would prefer class 4 mot as currently have to put 3tonne weight in back to pass braking efficiency test on class 7 mot.
anyway dvla after initially losing my v5 in their system and getting me to apply for a new logbook the re applying for my changes, only had response the other day, applied beginning of Nov 2010, They have now said that they must protect the integrity of the body type of vehicles on the road and that the reasons for refusal are the size of vehicle and they say no alteration to outside, my photos clearly show a side window and in my covering letter stated I was more than happy to go for inspection. I have already had it unofficially given the ok as motorhome by vosa in regards to mot guidelines and comply with all the dft guidelines for import including size which is 12m long and 2.55m wide, my vehicle is 11m long and 2.45m wide. I have been back on the phone to the person at dvla dealing with it who says that his hands are tied by some policy making dept who I’m not allowed any contact details for and the only way I can proceed is to make written complaint via usual (long wait) procedure.
what I find laughable is they say they have to protect integrity of body type’s, my vehicle is currently listed as “box van” which would make me thinks of transit or luton, not an 11m long, 4.2m high 18tonner!!!!
any advice appreciated?! feels like climbing a never ending mountain of bureacracy, exactly why I choose to live in a lorry in first place to try and advoid pen pushers!
van conversion
Hi Freddie,
I have just had exactly the same reply from the dvla. I now have to write in again to plead my case with the ‘planning team’ whose decision is, apparently, final. I am now in the position of being in breach of my insurance policy as that is dependent on the registration document showing the vehicle as a campervan.
Apparently, dvla have been issued with new guidelines which seem to rely on the vehicle ‘looking’ like a campervan for police purposes.My conversion complied with the details set out in the guidance on this site.
Regards
Rob
dvla
Hi
i have just had the same conversaion with very rude women she then fobed me of with a phone number for vosa and then vosa gave me a number for depotment of transport and they have given me a email address and they will try and addvise me i will let you know if i get anything changed if you let me have your email
Cheers chris
good luck with that, pls let
good luck with that, pls let me know how you get on, Richard Underwood (technical officer) at VOSA has conceded that for MOT purposes my vehicle can have a class 4 MOT, even with it still listed as HGV, which is a change of heart as for two years I had a class 7 mot and had to put 3tonne test weight inside for brake test, thus causing at least 4oo quid damage each time as I don’t have any fixing points inside anymore, it is my full time home. VOSA will not get involved with it any further. I emailed DfT asking numerous questions and stating my case, they didn’t even reply but forwarded my email to DVLA policy making directorate, who have just replied ”
The primary purposes of the vehicle registration system maintained by DVLA is for road traffic enforcement, road safety and revenue collection. It is vital that we do all we can to secure and maintain the accuracy and integrity of the vehicle register from the outset. This includes accurately describing the body type of the vehicle in question to reflect how it actually appears to the general public on the road and to assist the police in identifying vehicles involved in criminal activity.
The primary purpose of the MoT test, carried out on VOSA’s behalf, is to ensure the compliance with roadworthiness standards.
Based on its external appearance, it is the opinion of DVLA that the correct body type description for your vehicle is Box Van.”
I feel like tearing my hair out, I am in process of making FOI request for guidelines, criteria, policy or regulations that state this new take on deciding body type. any help or breakthroughs from anyone else, please let me know.
I have a side window, tv aerial, chimney, small door fitted halfway along side(cut within barn door), water inlet valve, 240v hookup all fitted to outside of my vehicle, I don’t see how I can do anymore. Does anyone have the definition of “box van” surely it implies that goods will be carried?
dvla campervan designation on logbook
Hi mate did you have any luck getting yours changed ?
Dvla reclasification to campervan
I have just had a letter from the dvla stating they will only reclassify my citroen relay minibus ,to A VAN WITH WINDOWS” The conversion was painstakingly done ,and pictures supplied.It was a van with windows before,so it seems there is little point trying to comply with the law,and making the vehicle type correct!
Has anyone been able to resolve this problem with the DVLA as this clearly will cause problems to insure in the future.
Ongoing van conversion
Heya,
Just thought I’d post up the videos of our van conversion, we took a Renault trafic, LWB and turned the inside into a camper van using mainly recycled materials. The van itself cost £150 so it was a total bargain.
I was just wondering if putting a table fitting infront of the passenger seat would constitute a satisfactory ‘table’ to get a conversion slip. The driver side already has a table that folds down inbetween the two seats. As it stands my van doesn’t have a dining area and it would be difficult to fit one. It was hard enough finding a double ring cooking hob!
Thanks guys, the videos can be found on Youtube @
http://www.youtube.com/user/KnuxVeeone?feature=mhum
Thanks again people!
Knux
Converting minibus to campervan
Hi
i have been thinking of converting an ex council 24 seat minibus into a camper. I wanted to do this in 2 phases. Firstly i wanted to remove the bulk of the seats and just chuck a large matress in the back and then drive round europe for a couple of months. Later on in the year and money permitting i will make the full conversión. The question is could i legally drive this vehicle in the uk and europe before the full conversión? I have a licence from pre 97
thanks
Hi Stefan
This can be a
Hi Stefan
This can be a problem area.
Driving it without the seats in is OK with the DVLA. But the problem is insurance.
As soon as you remove the seats it isn’t a mini-bus anymore. Insurance companies won’t know how to insure you.
If you intend to do a full conversion you can get transitional insurance. See this tread:
http://sbmcc.co.uk/forum/index.php?showtopic=24151&hl=minibus
hi i have a ldv pilot which
hi i have a ldv pilot which on the v 5 show as 6 seat panel van iv had no problems with seats at all try van compare
MOT Due while awaiting changeover
We have sent off to change our Sprinter to a motor caravan but the MOT is due at the end of January, Is it possible to MOT it as a class 4 before we receive our logbook back or will we have to either wait until it is changed over or MOT it as a class 7?
Thanks
An MOT tester told me that
An MOT tester told me that they have to test the vehicle “as it is presented” to them.
So they should MOT it as a Class 4.
As I understand it, even if they MOT it as a class 7, that should still cover you as a motor caravan. I’d recommend you check this with the DVLA though.
Thanks Darren.
Our local
Thanks Darren.
Our local garage can only do class 4. I have asked a chap who works there and he is going to find out if it fits on there ramps first anyway. His only thought was it might say it needs a class 7 when you put the reg number into the computer but he was not 100% on this. I will let you know how I get on.
Allan
Ah yes, the ramps are often a
Ah yes, the ramps are often a problem.
Have the same problem where I live, in Truro. Only 1 garage in town can fit the van on the ramps.
I am going to another out of town for the MOT.
The computerised MOT system might indeed insist on a class 7 MOT for now.
Please do let us know how you get along.
Reregistering the truck
Hi, just wanted to say thank you for the information on this website. We just reregistered our Mercedes 813 horsebox as a motor caravan using the information on this page. Sent off photos, letter and logbook, and it came back changed in les than six weeks. Just the insurance to get now…
thanks again,
Susanna
Very glad to have helped
Very glad to have helped Susanna
I hope you have many great trips in your vehicle.
Wood burning stove
Has anyone put a wood burning stove in and been approved by the DVLA? Are there any rules about this? Or does it make getting insurance difficult?
I am planning a conversion and am hoping to put in the stove from my old caravan (a gas bottle welded thingy). I have double wall pipe and a paving slab for it to rest on.
I don’t believe it’s a
I don’t believe it’s a problem with the DVLA. Although you should double check with them.
The problem is with the insurance companies. They don’t like anything that burns inside the vehicle.
Speak to your insurance company and check with them.