"VAN with WINDOWS"? DVLA INVESTIGATED after Complaints - Motorhome News December
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- Опубліковано 20 сер 2024
- In this month’s motorhome & campervan news we look at:
* Campervans blocked in car park by Coaches Causing Chaos
* Emptying Toilet Cassette Waste on beautiful beaches HAS TO STOP
* DVLA Gets Investigated for registering self-build campervans as "Van with Windows"
Coaches block vehicles in car psrk
www.dailypost....
Highway Code Change - Using junctions
www.liverpoole...
Highway Code Change - Wearing winter clothes while driving
www.chroniclel...
Highway Code Change - Using Daylight lights at night
www.dailyrecor...
Motorhomes on Black Rock Beach
www.dailypost....
www.cambrian-n...
DVLA in Trouble
www.ombudsman....
#vanlife #news #motorhome #campervan #dvla
I have a 'van with windows' but it couldn't look more like a campervan if it tried. When converting it I met all of the criteria on the DVLA website but it was still only designated as a van with windows. However, I have had no problem insuring it as a campervan and my recent MOT was for a class 4 vehicle. Also, ferry charges have been for a campervan, because it looks like one! I have had no problems with campsites, even one who won't accept commercial vehicles. It would appear that the only organisation who doesn't think my campervan is a campervan is the DVLA.
That's great news, Peter. Thanks for that. I wonder whether you'd have problems with the insurance if you need to claim?
@@HermanHitstheRoad I hope not. However, I feel reassured as they required detailed pictures of the van.
Peter, you obviously didn't meet all the criteria as I take it your campervan didn't have a high top roof hence the basic classification of "van with windows". ( I presume it has a pop top like mine? ) . At least it's not a panel van anymore and as it now meets type approval for a motor caravan you can challenge any speeding tickets so another bonus!
@@peakpanther5136 I did meet all of the criteria, including a high roof as it is a L3H2 Fiat Ducato. It is only the perversity of the DVLA that decided it isn't a 'motor caravan'. They cited the now common line of emergency vehicles wouldn't be able to see that it is a campervan. However, that is quite frankly ridiculous.
@@peterfinch3548 Apologies Peter, that is just bizarre. Clearly you have a high roof on your Fiat. Like the VW Crafter they are a popular conversion. I would be appealing that although I guess you have done that already. I wonder if they see it as a "midline" roof? Who knows, it's mad.
As you say, the high roof, windows, awning rail and exterior graphics are supposedly the give away to the emergency services. In fact most Police, Fire etc would say that they can instantly tell a campervan from a panel van whether high roof or not. My neighbour is a retired Fireman and he just thinks it is ridiculous and a cover for some future tax grab or similar dark ruse.
Happy motoring and camping ! Those Fiats are good vans.
I was impressed that the carpark in Saltburn-by-the-sea allows campervans and has free black waste disposal point by the toilets.
that's what's needed everywhere
That's great.. Thanks Jon 👍👍👍
I`m a trucker of 25 yrs, IMO, the problem with day running lights is down to the fact dashboard lights are on constantly, i`v done it myself not realising my tail lights aren`t on.
That is exactly the problem, Kevin. Thanks for commenting
Hi, I have to say that I am sure that most car drivers don't even know that the rear lights aren't on with the daytime running lights! Garages need to make sure that their customers are aware of this. I agree with you on the dash lights making you think the main lights are on.
Garage's hardly show you around the car and private sellers aren't going to do that at all, I think. Thanks for commenting, Andrew
@@andrewoakley4957 most car drivers don't seem to be aware of very much at all :-(
I run a campsite at Thornton Le Dale, we welcome Motorhomes,campervans etc to use our facilities for a small charge. As for encouraging wild camping in the area if that is what people want to do that is fine, at least they are not tipping sh1t everywhere because we offer a needed service.
thank you for your decency
Thanks for sharing, Roger.
Do you know of a reason why campsites don't allow motorhomes to empty and move on?
Hi, the only reason I can think of is greed, because you hav’nt paid to stay on their sites, and they don’t want wild campers getting nights out for free.We have full timed since 2006 and until 2018 when we took on this job, we never used campsites all over uk and Europe. Wild campers still spend money locally on food, diesel etc so they are contributing to the local economy, some people cant afford campsite fees, but are quite willing to pay for site services, which I will gladly welcome them, and then let them go and do their own thing. We all don’t want to be put in boxes that need to be ticked by “society”. As for costs to the campsite we charge £4 for service that includes black and grey water, recycling waste, and fresh water fill, and at that price we are quite happy, and so is the environment. Many thanks.
Thanks Roger
Independent campsites will not want to allow people to use their facilities free without staying the night. From a campsite owner's point of view, offering their facilities for a reduced price without camping would encourage people to wild camp locally, taking revenue from the business. Many campsites are not on mains sewerage, so they have a cost for emptying the tanks. It would be nice for local authorities to provide Elsan services, but I think they will as they will come under fire from local residents. The person who emptied the cassette on the beach most likely would not travel to an Elsan and pay £2 anyway!
Some very good points. Thanks Phil 👍👍
The alternative is toolstation - buy man hole pullers and then get schematics of Foul and Rain water drains? Be sure to put it down the correct drain!
I'm not sure whether that's a good idea, Jake
@@jakespeed6515 there's heavy fines for that.
It shouldn't have to become an issue before facilities are provided. A lot of people wild camp these days, if people are left with no option to empty them in a proper manner things like this will inevitably occur
I carry two cassettes one in the toilet and one in a Dewalt tool box mounted on my tow bar, the cassette fits in the tool box and the Dewalt tool box is air and water tight and you can also lock it just in case a thief with an unusual fetish comes along. Maybe this information will help genuine campers and extend their time away from emptying facilities.
Dungarvan County Waterford in Ireland is a real example of what Councils should be doing. They have provided parking, water and cassette emptying facilities on the sea front for €10.00 for 24 hours parking.
Happy Christmas everybody.
Thanks for the info about the Waterford stop over. We may use it when we go over next year 👍
The DOT as the last say as they are a Govt body unlike the DVLA. The DOT, regardless of what DVLA think, says that a commercial van with 2 side windows (one on each side behind the cab) sink, cooking facilities and a bed is a motorised home and therefore cannot take goods for financial reward. A recent court case against a motorhome/camper exceeding the speed limit for commercial vehicles was overturned when the photos of the interior of said van was shown to the court and evidence from the DOT was produced. The owner of the vehicle was awarded court costs from the Devon constabulary and the speeding fine dropped.
Thanks Dougie. Do you have a link to this? I'd like to report in the next news video.
Also, it kind of makes sense why it needs to look like a camper
I suppose there must be some rules but these are still pretty arbitrary. What happens if you're living by Japanese or Arabian traditions & eat on the floor for instance? UK & European teenagers sometimes also prefer the floor (or bed). I don't have table & chairs in mine.
@@HermanHitstheRoad Jerba campervans have the full details on their website.
Thanks for your very informative videos. You asked for solutions to the toilet cassette dumping problem. The answer is change to a dry/ separating toilet. Apart from being much more pleasant in all aspects of use, you only have to dispose of a binbag of dry organic waste about once a month per full time user.
On the DVLA issue you might like to note that in this authoritarian Britain, if a government department fails to maintain the ombudsman's recommendations there appears to be nothing one can do about it. In my case the ombudsman refused to insist that the courts service complied with their previous findings, even though court maladministration has now grown to gigantic proportions.
Thanks for commenting, Bilge Dweller. I can't see everyone switching to a dry toilet. I hope you enjoyed the video?
@@HermanHitstheRoad This toilet dumping is a disgrace which damages our reputation and leads to site closures.
I agree that many are resistant to change. Motorhome owners prefer everything to be like at home. They stick with the conventional even when the commercial solution they have been given is so unpleasant that many choose to seek out public or campsite toilets.
Van life people on the other hand abhor convention and love practical solutions that give them independance, self sufficiency, comfort and convenience.
The current environmental crises have fuelled arguments that dry toilets should also replace flushing toilets in buildings because of the huge amounts of drinking water and natural fertiliser the latter waste and turn into pollution that requires even more resources in treatment plants.
The commercial world of course lobbies against anything that would make so much infrastructure and the entire chemical fertiliser industry redundant, while only the planet would gain.
Thanks Bilge Dweller
A knighthood for services to British motoring goes to whoever challenged the DVLA and won
Haha, good idea, enigine.
Put your loo cassette in a large bag (I use my morrisons bag) , walk into a motorway services loo , and empty it into the toilet bowl , I also bring a litre bottle of water to swill cassette
I've got 2 cassettes (1 spare) for swaps
Not exactly difficult
Some public toilets can't cope with emptying a cassette down them, John. Lots of reports about blocked public toilets.
Thanks for commenting. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Living on a narrowboat for numerous years, it is usual for for marinas to charge a small amount for emptying waste a practice which should be adopted by van sites. (Ps. I also have a motorhome so conscious of removing waste responsibly) 🦆💕💕
That's exactly it, Pam. We asked a campsite in Monmouth if we could empty our tanks and they simply said, "we don't do that". They just wanted us to stay - expensive too with showers for £2.
@@HermanHitstheRoad Apart from bringing in, albeit a small amount of money, the goodwill would be broadcast and possibly more income obtained & folks would stay there 🤔🦆💕
I bought a brand new transit custom in 2019 and converted it myself (apart from the poptop) I followed the tried and trusted blue print, side and rear tinted windows rock and roll bed etc, I applied to dvla and received the van with windows routine. During second lockdown my van needed serviced but my supplying dealer was a good two hours away, I sought advice from a static police patrol he said if I made the journey during local travel restrictions I would definitely be stopped by the police as it is obviously a campervan. This was one of dvla's reasons for refusal as it didn't look like a campervan to the emergency services ???
I can tell a campervan a mile away; awning, TV aerial and solar are the big give aways. So I guess it's who you talk to, Stephen but the DVLA has to put solid rules in place and a process of how they select the vehicle type.
Why are some people so disgusting to empty their waste like that. We have not yet “wild camped” but with campsites becoming more expensive it may be an option. Hope you both have a lovely Christmas. Take care Gill
Thanks Gill, Merry Christmas to you both. We are staying in Herman over Christmas. How about you?
@@HermanHitstheRoad We have my parents and our children over on Christmas Day. We shall probably do a day trip on New Years Day. Last site we went to was Hertford CCC on first week of December and we are off again in January to stay on my brothers drive. Have plans sorted for the first 4 months of 23. Take care Gill
I am also a victim of the DVLA conversion confusion. I have a ambulance Mercedes sprinter 519 gross 5ton. The DVLA registered it on the log book as a PHGV "box van" meaning no class4 MOT station would test it as it was not on their system and was told to go to a HGV test centre. I did this only to find it was not on their system either.
On contacting the DVSA they said because it was a services vehicle it had not been 'plated' and I would need to fill out a VTG1 form. I filled out what is a commercial trade vehicle application only to find after several months of letter writing that because I was not carrying 'goods' then it would not be applicable and was refused.
I started the process in April 2022 and have just successfully got it through a class 4 MOT at last despite the DVLA stating in a recent letter that it is class 7 MOT.
The DVLA are not fit for purpose and opaque and obstructive so I too am complaining to the Parliamentary Ombudsman. If the 10,000 or so other refusals complain collectively then it will create enough pressure to have these idiots removed from there jobs.
To date I have not found a reason why the DVLA decided to create this obstructive policy. It appears there was no cases of 'mischief' from the vehicle descriptor type or legislation from the Dept of Transport.
Is there anyone out there who knows why they are doing this???
Thanks for commenting, Dee Bie. It sounds like you've really been messed around with by the DVLA. I hope you have some great tours planned to make up for it?
I suppose this is at a slight tangent but I think the whole concept of sleeping overnight anywhere but in a registered facility needs a set of laws around it. I live in Dorset and we have some beautiful spots which regularly get filled up with campervans and indeed people just sleeping in their cars overnight. You are then faced with them either emerging from the bushes holding a toilet roll, coming across the evidence of someone's bowel contents or worse, where they have emptied their toilet. When they camp at the side of the road they think nothing of sliding their door back and pouring their washing up water straight on to the pavement/road - that's not so bad I hear you say, but once the water has run off or evaporated the baked beans and bits of breakfast stay there for a while encouraging vermin.
I hear you, Andrew. It's not nice. I'm sure there already are laws about dumping sewage and litter though, right?
Thanks for commenting
As both a Dorset homeowner and somebody who lives in a van elsewhere Mon-Friday I feel your frustration.
I wouldn't dream of doing many of the things I see occurring in Dorset with car or van sleepers.
The issue is though, the laws shouldn't be made around "wild sleeping" but around the dumping of waste.
There should be strict rules and associated penalties with anybody dumping grey or toilet waste anywhere other than dedicated facilities or appropriately equipped drainage with food traps for example.
@@richardwillson101 yes agreed - a framework of some sort outlining the various aspects of dealing with waste, even going as far as saying you can't wild camp unless you have a toilet and way of holding grey waste, but then the councils need to step up and give these people somewhere to dispose of their waste as well.
we have plenty of laws, it's common decency & enforcement that's lacking, along with the reasonably expectable civic amenities required to enable decent behaviour.
@@amcrome Council can't even get a grip on regular fly tipping. Going after motorhome and camper van owners is easy pickings for them.
Don't get me wrong the irresponsible half wits infuriate me now end.
I bought a VW transporter which was professionally converted. Log book arrived and the dealership hadn't bothered to change it. I had to send photos of the vin number, exterior 360, exterior with readable number plate, any hook ups, interior with bed, kitchen and chairs rotated. Got the new motorcaravan log in less than 2 weeks.
Alway wild camped but used local cafes, restaurants, tourist attractions as we didn't have a cassette toilet. Always disgusted at the mess vaners left but noted that a lot of the time alongside water that the mess was usually left by anglers. Fire pits filled with empty beer cans, disposable bbqs, broken chairs and discarded food packaging. Locals were becoming more and more hostile even when I would fill black bags and try to make a difference. Since moved onto a 7.5m mororhome and use sites more often than not. A friend who lives on Skye said park ups are now actively sabotaged and blocked to force people into sites or off the island. Wild campers are no longer wanted or welcome because the road sides, beauty spots have been ruined.
Thanks for commenting, Graeme McKay. I hope you enjoyed the video?
I read that Wales is introducing a tourist tax, anpr will read van with windows not camper so no 25 quid tax bill in the post.... suits me !
You know Andrew, that is a fantastic point if that is one of the procedures they are using. Thanks for that, will look into it. Mine is VWW!
I read this too, Andrew but not the ANPR part. More like the tax will be added to campsite costs.
I recently got my 5ton sprinter registered as a motor caravan with the DVLA with no problems in fact I thought it was harder to get registered into the Motorhome and Caravan club which required loads more pictures but again ended with a positive result. What I have found is the change has not appeared on the congestion charge web sites so I would be still charged as a HGV which in the case of Bristol would be £100 per day. I'm afraid local councils and some residents do not want people to wild camp because of the waste problems that some van lifers leave behind and really you can't blame them.
Thanks for the information, alibarber123. Did I understand you correctly, you had to send photos to the Caravan Club to become member? Why?
I thought the congestion charge sites are linked to the info from DVLA?
@@mechanoid5739 you would expect that to be written into law, perhaps it would be with a different government.
Great round-up. Will be interesting to hear how the DVLA respond.
Thanks Alex. We're glad you enjoyed the video. It could take months before they respond but yes, it would be interesting
@@HermanHitstheRoad months? They've been receiving complaints for more than a year (that _I_ know about)
A means to Control those Not living in a Structure in Suburbs!
This world Sux!!
@@williambyast7791 not the whole world, just parts with right-wing governments (like here).
Camping in general in the UK is really pants. Anyone would have thought we were not citizens of our own country!
Thanks for commenting, Corkedit. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Some councils need to visit France where a shock is in store¬
Not having the vehicle registered as a motor caravan or motorhome makes absolutely NO difference to the cost of an MOT, the vehicle is tested as presented at the MOT, IE if it is obv a camper with a bed, sink ect it must be tested as class 4 or normal MOT.
My own 4.2T ex ambulance is registered as a box van, the tax reminder clearly states it needs a commercial MOT ( class7) but it is tested every year as a class 4, which it is.
Fortunately most MOT testers know the LAW better than DVLA do 👍
Thanks for commenting, DirtDiggler. I'm not sure all MOT stations do that.
When I took my Daily Luton to my local station, the MOT tester said "it's not a class 4" and said they can't test it. Luckily I got mine changed to a motorcaravan about 4 years ago and had the V5 in the cab, which they accepted to make it a type 4. I've since added stickers and awning etc and not been asked again.
That's great news, Pugwash 👍👍
@@Pugwash. not all MOT testers remember their training
Same for me the DVLA state my ambulance conversion is class 7 but the MOT station puts it through as a class 4. Mindboggling.
I visit Black Rock Sands each year in my Campervan but I don’t overnight there I use a campsite, when I visited this year I was amazed at how many cars were there it was chocker, while enjoying the view I wondered to myself were do all these people go if they need a toilet, let’s be honest you may be able to hold it for a bit but not for the day, that’s when I started noticing people digging holes in the sand and sitting children in them, and the attraction that the dunes have was amazing. Let’s not blame Campervaners for everything we aren’t as bad as people make out just an easy target, don’t get me started with Scotland.
Thanks for commenting, Anthony. The news article mentions the public toilets in the area. Aren't there toilets in the area?
Yes your right Anthony, it's the Councils and the Government that need be at blame whereby they ought see there is need for change in tadays lifestyles with the ever increasing sales of Motorhomes and Caravans plus selfbuild van conversions so no its not always the people at fault its the lack in supply of WC facilities that falls foul of the Councils and the Government.
As I understood the DVLA regs you have to have two windows behind the driver on the driver’s side not including the driver’s side window. One window on the passenger side not including passenger window. There can be no lifting roof. There must be an extending canopy. There must be a fitted toilet. There must be a fitted kitchen including sink and cooker. There has to be rear access ie behind driver or passenger. Apparently it must not look like a van so the Q van concept is now ‘out’. This was the information imparted in a C C C magazine about 18 months ago. Please don’t shout at me anybody I am merely relaying the rules as I understand them. I am told if you go to a Ministry inspection depot and not the DVLA they merely inspect to see the vehicle is safe, ie no bits hanging off and issue a vehicle alteration certificate. The problem is, so I am told, involving the DVLA. The fun has now gone out of auto homing and after 12 years I have sold mine. Too many drivers show lack of respect to local communities and the concept is now disliked. That is a great pity. What we need is the Continental stop over lay by BUT we have to learn to tidy up after ourselves and that includes animal defecation as well as our own!
Great comment, Glyn. Yes, the rules are there but the DVLA still refuses some DIY conversions according to the comments we've received. I'm also not sure why pop-up roofs are not allowed since it's only campervans that have them.
I'm converting a Renault Master Luton Lo-loader. It screams 'truck' and I'm happy to keep it that way, as with the DVLA refusing even obvious camper van conversions my beast won't stand a chance. I have relatively small windows and wafer thin solar panels and although I know there are downsides, I also know that some parking locations will take commercial type vehicles but not camper vans so there is that. This more stealthy approach is an inevitable trend but with the UK authorities determined to push us all on to campsites I'm not willing to play their game. I'll take my chances, thank you very much.
Thanks for commenting, Ezio Auditore. I hope you enjoyed the video?
@@HermanHitstheRoad I did! Thanks for the content and keep creating. Merry Xmas.
Can I suggest you ask lifetime travellers from all over Europe where they dispose of their waste when travelling around the UK?
Thanks for idea, mr grumpy. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Most coach companies have toilet drop facilities. If you look them up and call them first, most will let you drop your toilet for a small charge.
Thanks Explorers. Great tip 👍👍
Mine was already on the V5 as a van with windows as it was an abnormal load escort van before I owned it
, didn't bother trying to get motor caravan ,after conversion . haven't any troubles on campsites either with wanting empty the loo
Thanks for commenting, Andrew. I hope you enjoyed the video?
My conversion was a 17 seater Transit minibus. Got a real runaround with the DVLA.
Body type, minibus yes but no seats so can't be that. van with windows, nope!
Motorcaravan, hmmmm not acording to the DVLA, despite having awning, roof solar, tv aerial, satelite dish, bike rack etc etc.
In the end gave up, brought it to France and registered it as camper here no probs.
Krusty😎
Thanks for commenting, Krusty Kamper. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Interesting video mate and I know of a couple of self builds that have recently been able to get motor caravan status so proves the DVLA must have relaxed their position on this. 👍🏼😃
Not true, DVLA are very clear on the requirements. They must must have had a HIGH TOP ROOF like a Crafter etc. Standard LOW ROOF vans like a Transporter or Transit or even fitted with pop tops will not qualify.
@@peakpanther5136 which is odd because pop-top campervans are still manufactured & there's not really another use for elevating roofs. VW, Ford, Mercedes, even Hymer & Winnebago have them in their 2022 line-up.
@Greg Virgoe no, it's the DVLA being erratic & anarchic again.
Thanks for commenting, Greg. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
This is correct, Peak Panther but unfortunately according to other commenters the DVLA still give out "van with windows" to high top van conversions. Of course, there could be others reasons the gave this classification.
Thanks for commenting 👍👍
Concerning the waste water issue here in New Zealand the equivalent of the caravan club (NZMCA) actively work with council to both fund and install waste dump stations for grey and black water. These are located in public areas like petrol stations, and car parks etc no charge to use. These can be located easily via a phone app.
The difference in attitude between NZ and UK concerning motorhomes and overnighting is light years apart, Stephen. We've travelled the south island in campervan a few years ago and it's superior. Stations for emptying and fresh water are everywhere and everyone is so friendly. 👍👍👍
I now have a Romahome R25- clearly a micro motorhome converted by Island Plastics in 2010. It is on a Berlingo base and is a ‘car derived van’ . Crazy.
Yeah, it's nuts, Sarah. I don't think you should have any problems with costs or speed limits since a "car derived van", do you?
Thanks for commenting
I converted mine and ticked all the boxes on the forms as to what was needed to change the body type along with several required photos, I was up plating the weight on my van and it had to have a body type change, it came back as VWW which was good enough to up plate, and its also cheaper on tax now too...👍
That's great news, Nomad. What does VWW body type refer to?
@@HermanHitstheRoad Van With Windows…👍🏻👍🏻
What you paying now?
@@my_carp_life3424 Well I got a £42.20 refund and I think its £160 a year for my van
That's better than nothing then Nomad 👍👍
When I get home I empty my cassette loo in the home loo. When I’m away I use public loos to empty it. I have found a shopping trolly that the cassette fits perfectly into meaning I can use lots of loos stealthily. I do wonder if someone else using a different cubicle may think I am ‘dying’ when they hear me ‘drop my load’ in one massive ‘go’. 😉 I try to wait until the loo is empty mostly though. I am very careful to be sure no splashes are missed and apart from the smell I leave no sign I have been there. Am I doing anything wrong? This is all so much easier in Europe though.
one day you'll find a 4" (100mm) sewer line that's already half-blocked with paper...
You're supposed to empty into a 6" (150mm) sluice but if one isn't available you have to do what you have to do.
Thanks for commenting, William Stilgoe but like Alan Hat says toilets, especially public toilets, get blocked too easily. I've read many news articles about this.
I tried to get the change from Van to Camper. I to now have a Van with Windows. The extra windows where fitted by the former owners. They should have done the change to comply with the law. The former owners, the Metropolitan Police.
Hahaha, that's funny Cyril 😂. I guess a "van" and a "van with windows" is the same thing to the DVLA and "Van with windows" is a made up class just to show that they've changed it?
Thanks for commenting
@@HermanHitstheRoad They are two classes A van has driver and passenger windows. A van with windows has more windows in the cargo area. Normally because another row of seats are fitted.
@@cyrildhy8993 a while ago it was a different taxation class, do you remember Ford Escort vans had a tall slim widow just behind the door, in the '80s I think?
The same thing with diy conversions is happening in France, but weirdly other way round. If you take your van to the CT station ( MOT equivalent) after you have converted it, it is a campervan if it contains (from memory) the following 4 FIXED items.
1. Cuisine (Cooker and Sink)
2. Bed
3. Seating in rear
4. Clothes cupboards.
If any one of the 4 items aren't present at the CT test, then it can be passed as a van.
The problem is, if you have these 4 items, then the Carte Gris (V5) MUST have it listed as a Camper, not a van. To get the CG (V5) changed will need a full inspection, expensive and very time consuming.The CT station will fail it until the Item/s are removed, or it changes category.
As for trying to import a UK registered camper (Fiat Ducato being popular) ....... forget it!
But our Hymer motorhome doesn't have seats in the rear, etarepsedllits48. Sounds odd to me.
I think the issue with the van with windows classification is that the DVLA changed its rules in 2019 where by a motor caravan conversion must have a high top fitted. A pop top would not be enough for the classification change. Luckily I converted mine in 2018.
If that's true, Ivanhoe line Watch then that is just nuts. Most campervans don't have a high top roof because they are tall enough to stand up in and the van converter businesses don't have high top roofs. I think the DVLA are trying to discourage people from a building a campervan.
Thanks for commenting. I hope you enjoyed the video?
www.gov.uk/government/publications/converting-a-vehicle-into-a-motor-caravan/converting-a-vehicle-into-a-motor-caravan
That's why a lot of people fail, it's listed in the external requirements section of the DVLA guide.
@@HermanHitstheRoad "I think the DVLA are trying to discourage people from a building a campervan."
I think so too. In the eyes of DVLA people who sell/stop renting and go to a much cheaper option (ie mh/van) are by their definition homeless (though correct term is houseless)
If you move into a van, the council doesn't get money from you as far as I understand..
@brisnera I don't think it's anything to do with "money" or "taxes" but a lot to do with the DVLA just not wanting people living in "Road going Vehicles".
After all, their remit is Vehicles, they don't care about council tax.
They also want to keep a noticeable difference between "campervans" and "commercial vans"... which used to make sense, due to the differences in road laws and the quick identification of vehicle type.
HOWEVER it's 2022, the DVLA, the Police, VOSA, and many other agencies ALL use ANPR cameras, so visual differences should be LESS important than ever.
The system knows what the vehicle is registered as, no need for a human "visual".
built my van and did everything on the DVLA list to make it a camper van I got VAN/SIDE WINDOWS I have rear windows as well and all the requirements to make it look like a camper van with no reason given and if stolen the police would be looklng for a VAN WITH SIDE WINDOWS not a camper van
I know, @ianhainsworth1083. It's all wrong. Hopefully they'll get their act together and sort it
I empty my toilet waste in the countryside usually in a stream or remote picnic area.
I don't believe you, Bernie.
I have converted an ex Tesco home delivery truck / van to part motorhome, part toy hauler, it has two single beds / bunks, camping toilet, sink,-cooker ring combo, 20 liter water storage, solar, mains hookup, storage for clothes, food storage, and shower, plus it can carry three vintage motorcycles seperate from the motorhome part, I knew the DVLA would not accept it as a motorhome so I asked about registering it as a "van with windows". It is not possible to apply to register as a "van with windows" I have to go through the motorhome registration process to end up with "van with windows" WTF...........................
Haha. That's nuts, Pat. Your motorhome sounds great though. Does it still have the Tesco branding on it?
@@HermanHitstheRoad only in certain light, the bonnet needs a machine polish! the rest of the branding had already been removed,
3:00 Govt problem to have places where people can empty them.
Here in Norway the dedicated emptying spots close in winter, but there are heated toilets along the road where you can empty the cassette.
Thanks, Andreas for commenting. Like I said, some councils are trying to make a difference but it will take time to provide facilities in popular places across the country.
That sounds great, but not sure that UK councils have the money for such "luxuries" as public toilets any more, let alone heated ones! As I understand it, Norway's citizens are some the most heavily taxed on the planet?!!
@@PeterS-xx8mj No. We don't even make top 10.
There is a toilet not far from here at a rest stop.. It's heated, but I would never want to do anything but pee in there.
Good place to empty cassette.
Top 10 Countries with the Highest Personal Income Tax Rates - Trading Economics 2021:
Japan - 55.97%
Denmark - 55.90%
Austria - 55.00%
Sweden - 52.90%
Aruba - 52.00%
Belgium - 50.00% (tie)
Israel - 50.00% (tie)
Slovenia - 50.00% (tie)
@@AndreasEUR is that the top rate of income tax? The one that less than 10% pay, usually 5% or even 1% of tax payers.
It's the lower bands of tax that are important, the ones that catch most people.
We live in our custom built van full time, instead of a chemical toilet our van has a bucket with a black bag & saw dust. It looks just like a toilet from above, boxed in & with a seat, every day we replace the bag knot the old one & pop it in the bin.
I live permanently in a caravan, and a campervan. For both I just use a bin-liner & cat litter.
@@davidfoster9890 exactly, & we pick up all the rubbish others leave etc as we dont want a bad rep, its weekend trippers that give us a bad name, the locals where we reside love us we clean the beaches of plastic too
Thanks for commenting, orbsofsteel. I hope you enjoyed the video?
It sounds a bit smelling and messy to me?
@@HermanHitstheRoad doesnt smell at all .. works brill bit of bleach in the piss pot stops that smelling too 😂 & yep enjoyed it thanks hope it makes people think & keep places clean
I'm not sure but I think a tailback of about 1,000 campervans from DVLA's carpark in Swansea would be enough to start to disrupt the motorway. This may be the solution -- get everyone with this dispute to turn up at DVLA on the same day & just sit in the queue till the DVLA resolves the problem, some time in mid summer when there's plenty of English tourists to be inconvenienced would be ideal.
The road there is nice & wide, there's no need to restrict the thoroughfare for ambulances. (A toilet emptying service would need to be hired & a bowser for fresh water).
Obviously there would need to be people on-the-ball & ready to talk to national TV news when they notice there's a story (my money is on Aljazeera & Channel4 being first on scene).
I will join you
@@deebie8474 I'm not ready yet but may be by summer
Thanks for commenting, Alan
Why are all pop tops without a high roof refused ? It is obvious that they are campervans. I spent £18000 getting my van professionally converted. It has every imaginable conversion done and looks like any manufacturer made camper van but cannot be registered as a camper van because of the pop top. Why ?
It is absolutely ridiculous. I can go car speeds according to their rules because it is used as a camper van but if I get caught by an automatic camera, I then have to prove that it is not a van ? With all the hassle that would entail. The logic of these people totally baffles me.
I agree, Steve. Commercial conversions don't have this problem with or without a pop-top. Hopefully, things will change
I converted a van with a pop top. I spent around £10,000 doing it plus £9100 for the van. I finished it just at the time DVLA changed the rules.
Great news, marcandsebe 👍👍
Without looking it up now. I was led to believe a window each side graphics a sink, toilet, and cooker was what you needed at minimum to scrape through with a van conversion.
Yeah, there is a lot of confusion, @davemurphy7533
4:23 not MOTs -- the vehicle is tested *_"as presented"_* which means that if the tester can reasonably believe you when you say "it's a campervan" that's exactly what it's tested as. The tester has no access to the logbook so has to accept what (s)he can reasonably believe & they're testing in relation to the use the vehicle is being put to.
Thanks Alan.
Anywhere you can fill up with water, you should be able to empty your dirty (brown) water tank, we should adopt the US method where public sites offer water and emptying, the reason people cannot be bothered is down to the fact it is rare to find somewhere to service your tanks, not saying its right, but it needs addressing. DVLA needs a good rework, if I ask for a car details they will refuse, "Data Protection" yet they happily sell our details to all and sundry. If they want to sell our data then pay us or at least ask our permission, something simple like changing vehicle status should not be so vague, something in black and white, like two side windows, sink, cooker/fridge seating or sleeping area, then anyone knows pick from that and its fine to convert
Thanks for commenting, Taz6688. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Another possible option is using a canal emptying point, you just need to be near the canal and have a key which can be easily bought maps with locations of these emptying points is also available. Again might help some people not all.
That kind of freeloading will win you no friends with boaters, who pay a small fortune to the Canal & River Trust, Environment Agency or other navigation authorities who provide and maintain those facilities for boaters to use.
Thanks for commenting, Mylestubedayz and Boatman. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Yes that should be enforce to have water and also waste sewerage. Obviously they will be a fee involved !
I have a septic tank at home. I have to pay somebody to empty it. !
Sorry to only seems fair for the campers and caravanners to pay a small fee obviously this will go towards empty when the time comes
Oh, yes, Dane I'd expect to pay to empty my tanks. Thanks for commenting. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Mabe get a list together of water companies who run local sewage works, all sewage works have facilities for the emptying of sewage tankers a service that they charge tanker operators for so maybe for a fee will allow the emptying of cassettes or tanks. I may be talking out of my butt, it's worth a try.
It might be worth a try, Keith
Thanks
Supermarket toilets and one of those shopping trolley that older people use that have four wheels to empty cassette.
Like John says, nixonsmateruby1 toilets are easily blocked when emptying a cassette
I know of one Danfo toilet , in a seafront carpark in St Annes , nr Blackpool, that has the facilities for emptying portable toilets.
Thanks for the info, Mark.
The best way to avoid the problem is to avoid using you van in the UK 🙂 ie Go to France. Just a thought
Yeeess but there are some amazing places to visit in the UK, Bake Been
Some self-builders don't do themselves any favours. You can't be both a 'stealth' camper in order to get away with cheeky overnight parking and also a 'motorhome'. Choose one, and take the consequences of whichever you select.
Very good point, YDysgwrAraf. Thanks for commenting
That's a little irrelevant because surely stealth campers wouldn't contact the dvla asking for it to be changed.
Hi, really good video. I have a campervan converted from a SWB Vivaro. I had the V5 changed to Motorcaravan before all the changes came in. The V5 was returned to me with the body type listed as Motorcaravan. This is my daily driver as I don’t own a car. However, the taxation class is still Light Goods.
Bradford council have introduced a clean air zone where private cars and motorbikes are exempt from charges, but commercial vehicles are charged. I contacted the council before the charge came in as I work in Bradford but live on Leeds and was told not to worry as I could apply for an exemption as it was for private use only.
When the charges came into force, I was REFUSED exemption as the TAXATION class was light goods. It had to be motorhome not motorcaravan. I appealed but they refused to alter it and now will not even respond saying the appeal was the final word. It now costs me £9 a day just to go to work.
With more councils bringing in these zones if they all use the taxation class then they have effectively devalued our campervans, no one is going to want to buy one if they can’t go through major cities.
Has anyone come across this in any other area, and what was the outcome.
"light goods" or "private light goods"? They're very different & have different sets of laws, if you've got the wrong one you could be falling foul of much more besides.
Pepipoo forums are my go-to for questions like this though if you get an authoritative answer it would be good to bring it back here.
Taxation classes for campervans changed in 2001, 2017 & 2021 (first registration) it's more complicated each change though for all 3 it should be 'PLG' as taxation class, "motorhome"/"motor caravan" is a body type not a taxation class.
That bloke on a motorbike, that's BS! Our motorhome is classed as a "motor caravan".
@@HermanHitstheRoad if you drive through Bradford centre on or inside the ring road then unless yours is Euro 6 compliant, unfortunately charges will apply. I sent copies of V5, insurance and photos of the Campervan and as it wasn't registered in Bradford they will charge
I part ex'd my Car for Vw panel van in while on furlough with the intention if coverting it into a campervan. When I received my new log book after purchase, it already stated it was a 'Van with Windows', eventhough it inly had the front windows?? After researching I found out that even after I installing a pop top, graphics, at least x2 windows each side, I would still not get the log book to reflect Motorcaravan/campervan. Ive spoken to other converters and we all seem to have different variations from the DVLA of what is required! So for now I stuck with my Van with Windows and have to pay the extra kn the ferry or Eurotunnel! I even considered putting a hardtop roof instead of a poptop, but the extra height would be a nightmare to use as a daily!
Very interesting, TiaKontiki Adventures. With any luck that might change and you'll be able to change the body type. Thanks for letting us know
I have booked my current 3.5ton Iveco and previous 3.5 ton Transit onto ferries as motorhomes for the last 10 years whilst they were registered as either a van or a refrigerated van, had not bothered to change the DVLA defination, never had an issue at Dover or Southampton, if it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck it is a duck!
Thanks Pat. It sounds like you've had a few DIY campervans?
I guess an idea would be to apply for DVLA permission up front before converting and committing to the spend. I appreciate photos may need to be submitted at the end of the conversion. If someone outlined their plan with sketches of what it will look like at the end before starting the conversion. I guess a bit like planning permission . I have seen some really nice conversions and some terrifying ones. When camping wild , its nice to know another van is nearby. But i have seen some real dodgy gas tanks thrown into a van with a cooker , no ventilation for any escaped gases etc. I have even moved away from a van if i feel it could be unsafe. I am surprised there have been no reports of vans exploding with dodgy workmanship. I think a van should have a one off inspection at the end of a conversion to ensure the work meets a standard that s safe for the owner and the general public. A bit like when a person finishes a kit car build, the car has to go for inspection. I am not advocating onerous layers of red tape to hinder converting vans. I am sure the people who do them will want to know there work is validated as fit for purpose and safe. I feel wild camping has its days numbered, unfortunately. Alot of the spots I use up here in Scotland have been ravaged by mindless idiots who don't care , be it tenters , motorhomes or caravans. Local people seem to be fighting back against the volume of vans etc in certain parts, to be fair I dont blame them. We need aires and a positive attitude towards tourism I feel, people need to be made aware of the benefits that tourism brings, and like wise the tourists need to respect peoples homes , towns and workplaces. It cant be take , take all the time by either side. It needs to be win win for all. Its doo able , with respect and curtesy, trust, and most of all manners !
Great comment, BabyBooHoot. Thanks. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Make disposing of rubbish easy or make a small charge and you will not encourage fly tipping .It’s the same for campervans human waste ,make it easier for drivers to empty there cartridges for free or a small charge like they do in France as they have them at most large car parks.It’s not brains of Britain logic ! Encourage campervan drivers to do the right thing by making the process easier and adapting to the problem head on given its increasing popularity.Simple I’d say
It sounds like a good idea, Kevin. Thanks for commenting. I hope you enjoyed the video?
I think a lot of the problem with the DVLA and registering a van as a camper, is largely that the owner approaches it wrongly. Before you even decide what van you are going to use, contact the DVLA and explain what you intend to do, and with what type of van. They will tell you the absolute minimum you need to do to the vehicle to make it comply with the classification of a camper. They will also tll you they need evidence the vehicle has been converted, so taking pictures even BEFORE you start the conversion, inside as well as outside, is vital. It would probably be wise to get an engineers inspection, before AND after conversion. There are lots of hoops to jump through, but its not just a simple case of fitting a side window to a panel van.
I've seen some seriously dangerous van conversions lately. Non fire proof insulation.non fire proof ply. zero ventilation using external regulated Chinese diesel heaters with no co2 detection
@@justso1823 None of them are Fireproof including professional manufactured built ones, even Caravans will burn 🔥 new or old.
@@justso1823 I dont think the DVLA are worried about that. They are more worried a transport operator could put a window in the side and have the loadspace still useable. The problem then arises about road regulations, taxation, insurance and what MOT it is supposed to be submitted to. I dont remember the exact requirements now, but it was at least one side window (not a rooflight) a table and chair, a bed and a cooker. I dont think a camping stove on a shelf qualifies. Think more what is fitted in a caravan or proper motorhome. It all must be permanently fitted and NOT removeable. It must also as i said previously be well photographed and documented throughout the conversion.
Thanks for commenting, robert till. I hope you enjoyed the video?
@@HermanHitstheRoad I did thank you. Discussion about subjects by people can help others greatly.
Cassette flush points....... Could each local council provide a waste flush point at the tips? They're the people who deal in waste.
I wouldn't know, etarepsedllits48. I shouldn't think so.
Whilst totally agreeing it's a no no to empty toilet waste inappropriately,the Government allows the water companies to discharge millions of gallons of untreated water into rivers, talk about dual standards.
Yes, you are right. Thanks for commenting, tangerinedream 72. I hope you enjoyed the video?
I've just received my new v5 which niw has pgh on it. I guess it would get charged the heavy goods rate inside the zones do I will be avoiding them, I don't know if I will apply or mitorhome staus as I am unsure if insurance will be higher or not.
Thanks for commenting, R N. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Happy New Year to you
Thanks for the mention. Subscribed ❤
No problem, Liam. Welcome to the channel 👍👍 and Merry Christmas
Brilliant video mate thanks for the great information and getting the word out about such important subjects 👍.
Beauty.
Chas.
Thanks Chas 👍👍
Converting a van - or even an MPV - is doing it on the cheap, rather than buy the real deal. Folks doing it on the cheap are very likely doing their motorhome 'camping' on the cheap... they'll not want to voluntarily pay to use facilities or dispose of waste.
My best friend - a lifelong buddy - has a conversion he and his missus uses, and he avoids paying anything anywhere as much as possible. We've had discussions over it - I'm a tent wild-camper myself - and he can't see why he should have to pay to empty his toilet... I've tried explaining that entities like camp sites have to pay to have their waste removed...but he arrogantly, selfishly, doesn't think he should pay because he's not camping at the site overnight.
I wild-camp, my toilet waste goes into biodegradable dog-waste or nappy bags, that I carry out - triple wrapped lol - and dispose at home or in dog or nappy waste bins (I also think dog owners should pay a licence to pay for the upkeep of dog waste bins).
To be frank, the attitude of many campers from backpackers to camper vans and beyond, sucks...
Thanks for commenting, a soul unwashed. I think everyone is different. We all have different reasons to go camping and emptying your waste is probably only an educational issue.
Our Mercedes Marco Polo campervan is registered as a passenger car! So road tax is over £500 for the first 6 years as in the luxury class!!
Wow, that's expensive, Peter. Is it cheaper now and how did it change? Thanks for commenting..
@@HermanHitstheRoad it still has about 18 months at the £520 high price left! Then down to £165 pa I think. There is an extra surcharge tax of £355 pa on top of the normal tax on vehicles over £40,000 new from the second year for 5 years, plus a first year high cost as well.
Thanks Peter. Merry Christmas to you and Phyllis 🎊🎉🥳
@@HermanHitstheRoad and to you and Zoe
Converting a vehicle into a Motor Caravan. From the Govt website:
2 or more windows on at least one side of the main body
(this does not include windows on the driver or passenger doors) to provide a reasonable amount of daylight into the living accommodation
a separate door which provides access to the living accommodation of the vehicle
(this excludes the driver and passenger doors); a window on this door counts as a separate window on the main body
motor caravan-style graphics on both sides of the vehicle
an awning bar attached to either side of the vehicle
A high top roof (this does not include a pop-top elevating roof)
So the vehicle must have minimum 2 additional windows on the sides, an awning rail, motor home style decals and a HIGH TOP ROOF. Simple. No amount of arguing or extra photos showing raised pop tops etc etc will make any difference whatsoever.
None of this is new, it has been in force since around mid 2019. I think the trouble is the DVLA didn't make this clear enough from this time hence the Ombudsman rapping it's knuckles. I bet those two complainants both had low or pop top roofs on their conversions?
I remember my converted T4 coming back as Van With Windows in September 2019 having missed the cut off time.
So how do professionally converted low roof or pop top campervans like the VW California get to show Motorcaravan on the V5 I hear you cry?
Here is an easy explanation from Jerba Campervans ( one of the best in the business ).
"The professional converter has to meet regulations such as having certified full Type Approval (by IVA, National Small Series or European Whole Vehicle) and the vehicle must be unregistered so that the application is the very first - if the converter is working on an already registered panel van or window van then they won’t be able to have it reclassified as a motorcaravan."
www.jerbacampervans.co.uk/blog/reclassifying-your-panel-van-or-van-with-windows-to-a-motorcaravan-the-conundrum/
I urge anyone interested to visit their site and read all their blogs.
Extremely interesting and also explains how to challenge speeding fines when you have a campervan classified as a "van with windows".
So you are not restricted to van speeds on single and dual carriageways. Not that many vans seem to stick to these anyway.
www.jerbacampervans.co.uk/blog/
Thanks for the info, Peak Panther
As far as I know now it's impossible to get Campervan dvla success now. For such as Vw. Transit. Trafic if you have pop top or standard height van. It has now got to have high top.
Which is ridiculous & also ridiculous to have to have 3 windows on side. That reduces the insulation a lot & also makes conversion much more expensive. Window /curtains
Is that what they say, David? Our motorhome doesn't have three window down the any of the sides. How can they justify that self build need three windows and commercial conversions don't?
Thanks for commenting
I converted a VW Crafter some while ago, having downloaded the registration for a motor caravan from the DVLA. During the time it took to convert the muppets at DVLA changed the requirements. I have only one side window as well as two big rooflights, muppets now want two side windows. I do not want an awning rail or lots of silly "my sunshine motorhome" stickers either!
Insurance seems happy with it as a campervan though and as a bonus I can ignore the "No motorhome" signs in car parks, it's a van after all! Mate who lives in Swansea tells me that the DVLA are a load of %&$£() , unfortunately can not use his exact words here!
The next comment says the requirements are three windows, roliasder. I wish they'd make up their mind. They keep moving the goalposts. Our motorhome only has one window down each side. How can they justify that self build need more than one window and commercial conversions don't?
Thanks for commenting
Sorry fella but demanding campsites to open their facilities to allow none overnighters to dump there waste is just ridiculous.
Thanks for commenting, Dolby Dog Adventures. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Just wanted to say that All driver who travel in the dark just using DRL's ( The clue is in the Description, DAYTIME Running Lights ) should Definitely be fined ,there are so many who do not have the 1st clue about their vehicle but are allowed a licence to drive 🙈🙉🙊 . Its a very poorly thought out ,alleged safety marketing policy that needs to stop in its current guise ; The Dashboard lights should Only come on with the main lights ( as they always used to )then it would be Totally Obvious they need to switch the lights on when they cannot see the speedometer. Merry Christmas everyone 🎅🤶🎄
"Daytime running lights" are American, I think just Californian. Other countries have front & rear marker lamps (also known as sidelights or corner marker lamps), side as well for recent longer vehicles, & some countries (notably Scandinavian) require that they come on with the engine.
In the UK "lighting up time" is half an hour outside of sunset to sunrise & is published daily by the Met Office, this time denotes that marker lamps should be on in built up areas plus headlamps elsewhere.
*Highway Code Rule 113* says
"You MUST
• ensure all sidelights and rear registration plate lights are lit between sunset and sunrise
• use headlights at night, *except* on a road which has lit street lighting. These roads are generally restricted to a speed limit of 30 mph (48 km/h) unless otherwise specified
• use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced (see Rule 226).
Night (the hours of darkness) is defined as the period between half an hour after sunset and half an hour before sunrise.
*Laws*
The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989: Regulations 3, 24 & 25 (In Scotland - Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984: Section 82 (as amended by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991, Paragraph 59 of Schedule 8))"
Also relevant are Rules 114-116, 248-251 & 274.
The anarchy & lawlessness we see day-to-day under right-wing governments is not sufficient defense in Court, you should always know which laws you are breaking & weigh up the consequences.
Thanks for commenting, paulashton43. Yes, the dashboard light should only come on when the main lights are turned on.
I'm a coach driver I also own motorhome so basically ignorance and arrogance of people, then you got councillors who are also part of the problem they don't want you in there towns by making life as difficult as they can, weight limits to stop coaches, small car parking bays,height restriction barriers into car parks, no overnight parking and as we are british we just roll over to corrupt councils, until
independent body employed to investigate this, this will just carry on making motorhome and camper vans owners life a misery..... you travel into Europe its a different ball game motorhomes,campervans are very welcome plus you have plenty of toilet drops at services, camp site 🇪🇺
Thanks for commenting, Iain. I hope you enjoyed the video?
@@HermanHitstheRoad yes enjoyed the episode going forward a petition is needed or something as more and more people are taking to van life full-time living and as government are at fault due to high priced homes in general the cost of living so action is definitely needed keep your good work going 👍
So we have been contemplating a part time van life. But the more research I do, the more and more I get put off by the idea. It all looks and sounds like more hassle than its worth.
Thanks for comment, @collywobbles7514. What kind of things have put you off?
Awesome video thank you
Thanks again, Hornetboy36 👍👍
How do van converters like Auto Sleeper, Wildaxe, Adria etc get runs this? Simply a question for clarification.
I wondered that as well, Gordon. It appears there are two sets of rules; one for business converters and one for self builders. Which is why I think the DVLA want to restrict the amount of campervans on the road.
@@HermanHitstheRoad it's not DVLA's job to be setting rules, it's Government's job & their rules are derived from international rules set by the UN because otherwise there would be one helluva mess as soon as you try to cross a border. Same for driving license classes.
How about a government led recall for Peugeot boxers and their Citroen and Fiat brothers to deal with the dangerous hand brakes ? mine is 2016 and quoted £1500 to replace [40'000 miles garage done it for £450] and our heating engineer [2017]and also electrician [2015] are currently driving with no hand brake as both of theirs have failed.
Bloody dangerous and should be an enforced recall to have all these vehicles hand brakes changed of modified.
Thanks for commenting, Paul S. I hope you enjoyed the video?
One time I pulled into a campsite, he realised that my van was converted. I had to prove it was registered with DVLA by Sharon in my logbook. I don’t recognise making up a motor caravan
That's ridiculous, Terry.
I’ve managed to get my classed as I’ve motor caravan four years ago I just got in before they change the rules
That's great, Terry. Thanks for commenting. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Before you go wild camping, check out what it actually entails, not as most folk think that you can park wherever. There are rules but unfortunately they are all to often broken and not polced
You're right, Bill. Thanks for commenting
Merry Christmas to you too, Mr Grumps.
@mr grumps when you have tried to live and work in areas that are abused by so called dirty campers you may begin to understand just an aside, wild camping was not meant to include campervans motorhomes or caravans
@mr grumps sorry you got that impression, it was not intended.
This was covered before in the Motoring news. The Camper van must have a high roof -apparently so it stands out in traffic.? (Daft) It should not have an elevating roof. Its a stupid rule whew a VW California with elevating rood costs £ 65 k up..The DVLA are very unqualified in Motor industry matters . It should take advice from more learned bodies such the SMMT as Swansea are 'All at Sea'''
I agree, Feldon. Why does there seem to be different rules for commercial converted vans and DIY convert vans?
Heavy on the spot fines fo empty cassets
There's an idea, Norman but I assume it is already an illegal action. If no-one sees you you won't get a fine 🤔
There's a layby in the peak District they have been dumping down the side of layby banking rubbish ect
Thanks for commenting, just so 1. I hope you enjoyed the video?
I follow many channels on "Van life". What I have noticed here in the UK, it is very difficult to have that lifestyle compared to say the USA. We appear to have a bias against it here. Now if you are a self-employed programmer or even a building site worker it may suit your lifestyle to be highly mobile.
I agree, Martin. Thanks for commenting
Councils don't provide public toilets in towns or cities, and have been known to deactivate ones that were there. Given that one can spend several hours looking around a town or city, how do councils expect you to "hold it in" until you get home?? Shops are reluctant to help and some even have them codec for access. On this basis the chances of them providing waste disposal for camper and etc are virtually nill.
I have found such disposal sites at petrol stations in Spain. - A possible solution? We buy their products, so help us.
I'm sure the councils provide the public toilets, Der Thephoto. Thanks for commenting,. I hope you enjoyed the video?
@@HermanHitstheRoad they allegedly do, but have you tried finding one? I have failed, many, many times and had to resort to chain stores.
I am not saying there aren't any, but the few that exist, are very very difficult to find.
Technically I have a van with windows but because that is what it looks like I haven't bothered trying to get it reclassified. It meets the requirements inside and has the 2 windows but it's not a high top and doesn't have decals down the side.
It's still a commercial van but my insurance is for a campervan.
Interesting but strange that the insurance company ignores the vehicle type, Monkey Sausage Club. Thanks for commenting. I hope you enjoyed the video?
One thing after another and another all thanks to our glorious DVLA. Needless to say i gave up. You sholdnt be applying to change your vehicle, because its law that you must "inform them of a change of use". Not beg but tell them, much different
I see what you are saying, sparky Jackson but I guess they have the last word.
@@HermanHitstheRoad hay what do i know, i found the easyest way to get any sence out of them was not to have any dealings with them at all. I looked around and saw many, many others trying in vain just banging their heads against a brick wall trying to deal wih the DVLA
Just use local amenities: or a fast food chain; or café, or restaurant, a public house, dig a hole in the ground, you do not need to use your onboard toilet, I think it is disgusting doing so & lazy on anyone who does!!! Your waste at the end of the day so your responsibility & if you make a mess you will clean it up & go to prison if I ruled the World!!!
Peace & Love!!!
Are you saying that using the onboard toilet is disgusting, THEANPHROPY?
The trouble with many van dwellers incl one of those youtubers you mentioned seen to think that "no overnight parking" doesn't apply to them... pure arrogance, thats why many places and im sure more will follow, will stop any van parking in places anytime of the day, there are many other places to overnight without pissing people off..
Thanks for commenting, Nomad. I hope you enjoyed the video?
@@HermanHitstheRoad No worries Ad, yes I always enjoy these and the practical videos..👍🏻👍🏻
Anarchy & rebellion are features of life under right-wing governments, if you want something different vote left-wing.
@@alanhat5252 😂😂😂😂😂😂
@@thenoworriesnomad I fail to see the humour?
Most local government councils have "RV Deposit" sites in and around their towns, and especially at popular stop sites. Oz is big enough to cope with a few extra campervans because more vans means less caravans being towed by novice drivers at slow speeds.
Unfortunately, it's not like that in the UK, David. Thanks for commenting.
Try going to your local MP they might put you in the right direction
My MP Jack Lopresti (Bristol) refused to defend my position on camper van conversion status he simply agreed with DVLA position which is now proved to be wrong and possibly illegal
Thanks for commenting, Patricia Brown. I hope you enjoyed the video?
put the cassette in a large shopping bag and take into McDonalds or other fast food chain toilets etc, don't forget to clear up after yourself
I'm not sure if that's good advice, Graeme but thanks for commenting
@@HermanHitstheRoad it's not good but sometimes it's the only option.
My next toilet is going to be a bucket with separator & doggy-waste bags that can go in the bin. We'll see how well Councils maintain their doggy bins...
For four years now, just use a bin-liner & cat litter. No need for a seperaror.
Surely if it got a bed and somewhere to cook food whether that’s boiling water for pasta or frying pan etc then it has to be a camper especially if it’s going to be used that way for long periods of time.
As for dumping waste on a beach then that person should have been fined and banned from camping on that beach.
Thanks for commenting, klashnacovak47. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Hi, love the vlogs. I don't know if this would work or not. But why not have every one fit a compost toilet and have the councils have a collection point. The separated waste, urine and poo, can then be used for natural fertilizer. As we all know, human waste is one of the best natural fertilizers going. The councils would then have a cheaper way of fertilizing their landscaped public gardens. I am sure someone out there could take my idea and make a working model.
Human poo is not a good fertiliser unless you're vegetarian or vegan because we eat meat and meat protein is no good for soil
Human waste takes about 18 months before it can be used as fertilizer
@@malcolmrowe5031 If it is ploughed into a field, what then?
@@kenmackenzie7338 if it's ploughed in it can take centuries because it will be below the microbes that do the work.
@@malcolmrowe5031 that depends how it's treated, municipal sewage works take just a few days because they keep it all mixed & agitated so the microbes can really get their sleeves rolled up. The composting toilets you see on festivals tend to use mounds which do take a year & a half to fully decompose. Domestic 2-chamber septic tanks take somewhere in between.
I think campsites are missing out on added income. If they charged £5 for non campers to empty their grey and black waste, take on fresh water, use their showers and laundry facilities and possibly use the on site shop (if one is available) they'd boost their income considerably. I really don't think they'd be surrounded by wild campers who parked up close enough just to get a cheeky cheap holiday but they would get wild campers passing through the area who would be grateful of the facilities.
But on the other side of the coin it could be seen as encouraging wild camping, Karena
Emptying waste is a case of taking it in to a public toilet... Its not a case of there is no place to empty them, there are.
Public toilets are easily blocked and some have septic tanks, Mark. Emptying in public toilets is not the answer.
Interesting video thank for sharing 👍
You're welcome, Garry. I'm glad you enjoyed the video 👍
A mate of mine was done for speeding because they thought it was a van.
Was he caught be an automatic speed camera or a Police officer, Sleepy Cat Pictures ?
@@HermanHitstheRoad Police officer I think. He was advised to increase his 'Camper Van' markings.
Very interesting, Sleepy Cat
@@sleepycatpictures1176 does he need "campervan" on a revolving banner on the roof or is writing it across the bonnet good enough?
Sheesh, some of these Police need to get jobs that are less reliant on eyesight or intelligence!
@@alanhat5252 To be fair, my mate was trying to stealth camp!
the windows in the dvla office is paid by us so just get on and do your own thing with your own vans end of
Thanks for commenting, Jamie Cleeves. I hope you enjoyed the video?
Not that simple if its PHGV
Think its about time that councils stopped trying to ban motorhomes and started to work out how they can accommodate, this also includes elsan points, water etc. A lot of seaside towns rely on tourism, there's a ready made market here but councillors hate the idea they someone is getting a freebie, we need more aires, supermarkets with massive car parks away from houses could also help here and make some money as well.
Thanks for commenting, goldwingutube. I hope you enjoyed the video?
0:53
Not using junctions properly,
Not to be able to see or use your controls properly,
Not having your headlights on at night.
I'm surprised that you consider these practices as "mundane". To my mind they are rather more serious as they endanger the lives of other road users.
You're right, Ditch but the headlines make out it's a simple thing that you'll get fined for. They put a spin on it to get more people to read their paper and to scare people. The previous one I read was, "fined £5000 for wearing sunglasses whilst driving"
@@HermanHitstheRoad Ruddy newspapers !
But then weren't you equally guilty in perpetuating these misleading stories to get a few more views and to scare people?