Client has been offered land to rent (£250 a week within a trading estate), specifically so he can park up his vehicle and caravan and live on the site (hasten to add its bit of land not a caravan site, he's basically renting a patch of land with a outside water tap being the only facility).

In HB terms, i'm working on the basis its a erstwhile site charge (so exempt from LHA restrictions?), its the next bit that confuses me, does a rent officer do a rent evaluation on the basis of Caravan site charges in our area or the land value?

Any ideas, advice or inspiration to offset a gloomy monday and help the above client would be really really appreciated.

Anyway, had chat with local rent officer in Bournemouth via Valuation Office Agency up North and he suggested it would be set nearest equivalent local Caravan pitch charges (errrrrrrrr nowhere near £250).

Our client is actually under the care of CMHT and the Aspergers Team, and Social Services are agreeing to cover the cost of renting the land not covered by HB shortfall.

Thought i'd post this, just on the off chance the above might be handy for someone.