Motorhoming without a fixed address

ClubMember064DDFC01A
ClubMember064DDFC01A Forum Participant Posts: 1

Good day. We are in preparation for a tour of France and Spain, then back to UK after 90 days, returning to cover Italy when we have completed 90 days outside of the Schengen zone. We will be renting out our flat in Hove. We are aware of the potential issues in not having a fixed address such as vehicle tax, banking, insurance etc and I wondered if members had any advice or experiences to share if they are touring for an extended period such as this? Any useful further links would also be very welcome. Thank you

Comments

  • Oneputt
    Oneputt Club Member Posts: 9,144 ✭✭✭
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    edited February 21 #2

    My brother lived in his MH for nearly 8 years, summers in mainly Eastern Europe and Winters in Sicily.  He used my home address for mail etc and every couple of weeks I bundled his mail up and posted it to a pre arranged campsite address.  Often he would leave EU countries for a while.  His banking etc was all on line.  He took his NHS prescriptions with him and generally speaking he had no problem.  He came back to the U.K. once a year for MOT, doctors appointment etc

  • eurortraveller
    eurortraveller Club Member Posts: 6,828 ✭✭✭
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    edited February 21 #3

    My son has been in Hong Kong for the last 32 years. When his UK driving licence needed renewing last week the notification came  here, So put your family to good use. Have a good trip - I hope it goes well.

  • Wherenext
    Wherenext Club Member Posts: 10,585 ✭✭✭
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    edited February 21 #4

    You still have a fixed address but are choosing to rent it out. I assume you will still have your name left on the council list etc.

    Most of your queries can be dealt with online including banking, insurance, vehicle tax. You may want to investigate post drop boxes. If you will be returning every 3 months then you could pick up your mail from a chosen spot, say near a ferry or rail terminal.

    See below:

    https://www.vanlife.uk/post/van-life-and-mail-how-to-stay-connected-while-on-the-road#:~:text=Use%20a%20Mail%20Forwarding%20Service,forwarded%20to%20your%20current%20location.

  • DavidKlyne
    DavidKlyne Club Member Posts: 13,856 ✭✭✭
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    edited February 21 #5

    Whilst you will technically own a property and therefore have a UK address how that works out might depend on the tenant and how reliable and co-operative they are. Unless you are renting to a family member or good friend probably be better to have a family member at a different address looking after incoming mail. Fortunately most things can be done online these days and if you have not already done so get as much moved over to online before you go so you know its working. If you rely on regular medication you might want to discuss your long absences with your current surgery as some won't keep you on the books if you are out of the country for too long. If you do take regular medication keep the scripts from the prescriptions as in many countries (unlike the UK) pharmacies are willing to sell you the medication you need. Prices will vary but we were surprised what relative good value it was in Italy as an example. You will still be liable for UK tax and I know from when my son rented his flat he had to complete a tax form every year. I know all this sounds like you shouldn't bother but they are all practical problems which have practical solutions, just needs to be thought through. Hope it all goes to plan.

    David

  • JollyKernow
    JollyKernow Forum Participant Posts: 2,629
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    edited February 22 #6

    Morning

    A few thoughts from me.

    Some good advice already given. If renting your property out think of using an agent, takes away any stressful calls from the tenant. As a landlord you'll need to complete a legionella risk assessment for the property and have a decent insurance, an agent can sort all that.

    A mail address is all well and good but if you're on the road for a long period you need to tell your motor insurance your intentions (don't lie) and have a fixed address for your driving license and vehicle documents.

    If abroad for long periods make sure your health insurance is up to it including repatriation for you and your partner as well.

    I used royal mail redirection for a year to a relatives until I made sure everything is online but now after 13 years with happy tenants I have my own pad again.

    Be careful what you post online.

    JK