There are exemptions for small structures under Building Regulations. A detached, single-storey building with a floor area of less than 30m2 could be exempt if it doesn’t contain any sleeping accommodation and is made out of non-combustible material – but if you build a permanent cabin that will be occupied overnight, then Building Regulations must be adhered to.

However, in this case it’s likely that neither of the above scenarios will apply. Mobile homes and caravans aren’t bound by the regs as they aren’t categorised as buildings. That means that if you construct something that can be specifically defined as a mobile home, it will be exempt.

The caveat here is that there’s a grey area between what constitutes a mobile home as opposed to a permanent structure. What’s more, it doesn’t necessarily follow that a mobile home or caravan used for holiday purposes can simply be exchanged for one that’s to be used as a full-time residence, if that’s your intention. To avoid any confusion, speak to your local building control officer and seek their opinion first.

Mike Hardwick (Build It expert & Self Build Consultant)