Thousands of UK households could save £180 a year by avoiding a second TV licence thanks to a little-known rule, but there is an important catch. The rule applies to owners of static caravans, mobile homes, or moveable chalets who already hold a valid licence for their main residence.
Who Qualifies for the Loophole?
Under TV Licensing rules, a second licence is not required for certain types of second property if the existing licence covers both locations. The key condition is that live TV or BBC iPlayer cannot be watched at both the main home and the second property at the same time. If television equipment is used simultaneously at both addresses, a separate licence is needed.
Eligible customers must complete a non-simultaneous use declaration confirming that television equipment will never be used at both locations simultaneously. This declaration applies specifically to static caravans, mobile homes, and moveable chalets, not to permanent second homes such as houses or flats.
Standard Licence Cost and Requirements
A standard colour TV licence now costs £180 per year. It is required for anyone who watches or records live TV on any channel or streaming service, or uses BBC iPlayer, on any device including televisions, laptops, tablets, or smartphones.
What About Conventional Second Homes?
The exemption does not extend to conventional second homes. If the second property is a house, flat, bungalow, or cottage, a separate TV licence is generally required to watch live television or use BBC iPlayer there, regardless of whether the main home is already licensed.
Portable Device Rules
There are also special rules for portable devices. If you watch live TV or BBC iPlayer on a device powered solely by its own internal battery and not plugged into the mains or connected to an aerial, your main home's TV licence can usually cover you when you are away.
Practical Advice for Families
For families who regularly spend weekends or holidays in a static caravan or holiday chalet, understanding these rules could prevent paying for an unnecessary second licence. However, if there is any chance that live TV or BBC iPlayer will be used at both addresses simultaneously, a separate licence will still be required.
