If you are a first time beach hut owner, or you are thinking of buying your first beach hut, this is your essential introduction to the world of beach hut ownership.
We will outline some laws and regulations you need to be aware of, and we will link to some guides and resources that will help you keep your beach hut safe, secure, and in top condition all year round.
Why Are Beach Huts In Such High Demand?
The price of beach huts soared in recent years, rising by over 100% between 2022 and 2023 in popular Dorset hotspots. Though the price of beach huts has fallen across the country since, this does not necessarily mean that there is any less demand.
There are still significant waiting lists across the country. For example, the Bournemouth council waiting list only reopened in 2024, having closed due to excessive demand in 2017.
So, why are beach huts so popular? If you own a beach hut, or you are considering buying one, then you are probably already aware of the appeal: A beach hut is a place to call your own, with fantastic sea views and easy access to the beach and other local amenities.
In the short-term, a beach hut is a peaceful place in which you can spend time with friends and family. And in the long-term, if the prices rise again like they did in recent years, a beach hut may prove to be a good investment.
Leasehold vs Freehole Beach Huts
Whether you have recently bought your first beach hut, or you are looking to purchase a beach hut for the first time, the first question to ask yourself is: Leasehold or freehold?
- Leasehold – This means you will purchase your hut through the local council, who may set certain restrictions on how you can use the hut.
- Freehold – This means you will purchase your hut through a private seller. It also means that you will own the land the beach hut is built on, along with the hut itself. This will give you a lot more flexibility in how you use the hut.
Whether your hut is leasehold or freehold will determine the sales process, along with the terms of your ownership. It may also determine how you use your beach hut, depending on the local rules and regulations set out by the council.
You can read our full guide to buying your first beach hut, and the implications of the arrangement, here.
How to Take Care of Your Beach Hut
A beach hut is a significant investment, so you will want to do everything you can to keep it in good condition.
Staying on top of maintenance will help you to ensure your beach hut remains a clean, pleasant, and safe space for years to come. Plus, as we will explain more below, you may be required carry out certain maintenance tasks as a condition of your beach hut insurance.
We have a range of guides that will help you stay on top of your beach hut maintenance throughout the year:
- Beach hut spring clean checklist
- Beach hut summer maintenance checklist
- Beach hut winter maintenance checklist
How to Keep Your Beach Hut Safe
As a beach hut owner, you will have to contend with three major threats to your hut:
- Damage and degradation from extreme weather events
- Fires, whether as a result of an accident or intentional arson
- Theft and vandalism
Beach Hut Maintenance: Staying on top of maintenance can help you manage all of these risks. Cleaning and periodically painting your beach hut, for instance, can help protect your beach hut from the elements. Making sure to repair small flaws as soon as you spot them will prevent them from escalating into major structural issues.
Simply keeping your beach hut clean and presentable could also help you to protect it from crime. Thieves, vandals, and even arsonists may be more likely to target beach huts that seem abandoned or unoccupied. They may overlook any beach huts that seem clean and well-maintained.
Beach Hut Insurance: In the event of an incident, whether it is fire, theft, or vandalism, dedicated beach hut insurance can cover you for any damages or other losses. And as we mentioned above, your insurer may outline certain maintenance tasks they expect you to carry out each year, as a condition of cover.
So, get comprehensive cover and keep up with the essential maintenance tasks, and you should protect your beach hut against most, if not all, risks.
Specialist Beach Hut Insurance From James Hallam
James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your beach hut.
We provide a specialist beach hut insurance scheme at a competitive price. We are experts in the market, and we can help you get full cover for your hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it.
Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance or get a free quote today. For more information, you can call any of the team on 01473 343390 or email huts@jameshallam.co.uk