End of season

Winterising a static caravan.

Frozen pipes are the classic winter bill for a static caravan owner, and many insurers will not pay a frost claim if you did not drain down. Here is the checklist, and why the date matters.

The drain-down checklist

1. Turn the water off at the caravan's stopcock.
2. Open every tap, hot and cold, and leave them open.
3. Drain the water heater or boiler using the drain valve, following the handbook for your model.
4. Open the drain points under the caravan so the pipes empty completely.
5. Flush the toilet until the cistern is empty, and drain it if your model allows.
6. Put caravan antifreeze in sink, basin and shower traps so the water seal does not freeze.
7. Turn off the gas at the bottle.
8. Deal with the electrics as your park advises: some ask you to switch off at the consumer unit, others want a dehumidifier or low heat left on.
9. Air the caravan. Prop open cupboards and the fridge door, and stand cushions on edge to stop damp and mould.
10. Take valuables home and check your policy's rules on unoccupied periods.

Every caravan is different, so your manufacturer's handbook comes first. If you are unsure, many parks offer a drain-down service for a fee.

Why it matters for your insurance

Frost and escape-of-water claims are commonly refused if the caravan was not drained down, or not drained down by the date the policy sets. Read that condition before the season ends, do the job before the deadline, and keep evidence: a dated photo of the open taps, or the receipt if the park does it for you. See our static caravan insurance guide for what else to check.

When parks close

Of the 36 parks whose season we hold, the most common last month is January (17 parks). Check your own park's closing date: after it, you may not be able to get on site to drain down yourself.

Common questions

How do you winterise a static caravan?

Turn the water off at the stopcock, open every tap and drain the whole system including the water heater and any low points, flush the toilet dry, put antifreeze in sink and shower traps, turn off the gas at the bottle, and switch off or set the electrics as your park advises. Follow your caravan handbook and your insurer's conditions, which usually say what must be done and by when.

When should I drain down my static caravan?

Before the first hard frost and before the park closes for the season, whichever comes first. Many insurance policies only pay frost or escape-of-water claims if the caravan was drained down, so check the date your policy sets.

Will my park drain down my caravan for me?

Many parks offer a drain-down and winterising service for a fee. It is worth considering if you cannot get there before closing, but ask what it includes and keep the receipt as evidence for your insurer.

General guidance only. Always follow your caravan's handbook, your park's instructions and your insurer's conditions. For gas appliances, use a Gas Safe registered engineer.