Are you undecided between fixed and mobile stables? In this article, we compare both options to help you decide.
Mobile stables are stable blocks that aren’t fixed to the ground. Because they have no foundations, you can move them around your property and even relocate them to a different yard.
Mobile stables are equipped with skids or runners and a towing chain. To relocate them, you can use a tractor or 4x4 vehicle.
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Fixed and mobile stables can look the same from a distance. However, while mobile stables are temporary structures, fixed stables are permanent equestrian buildings designed to last many years. You cannot relocate a fixed stable block, as it’s built on foundations.
Below, we compare fixed and mobile stables based on key criteria.
Mobile stables are incredibly flexible. You can move them around your paddock as many times as you wish. This is especially useful if you have a modest property and need to manage your pasture efficiently. Or if you’d prefer to keep your animals in different breezy, shaded, or sheltered spots throughout the year. If you like, you could move them into the yard for the winter.
Moving them often also helps reduce mud build-up. Finally, if you’re renting the paddock or yard, you can relocate the stables at the end of your contract.
However, bear in mind that because they are temporary buildings, mobile stables need to be moved regularly.
Fixed stables are permanent, so they cannot be moved once erected.
Mobile stables can be ordered online or over the phone and be built in days, as they do not need foundations and - in most cases - do not require planning permission.
To build fixed stables you might need to make a planning application to build fixed stables, depending on where you plan to develop them. The process usually takes about 8 weeks. Once you have permission to build, you have to lay a concrete slab, which then needs a week to set. So overall, building fixed stables can take a few months.
Fixed stables are designed to be sturdy and durable, offering better insulation.
Mobile stables, on the other hand, are relocated often, so you might need to tighten the hinges and fittings of moving parts every now and then. They aren’t insubstantial, though. They are well-built and robust and can endure multiple relocations.
Mobile stables may require more maintenance than fixed stables if they are subject to frequent movement.
Fixed stables need minimal maintenance.
Mobile stables are cheaper to install because you do not need to build foundations or apply for planning permission.
On the other hand, fixed stables can be slightly cheaper to buy. However, they require foundations and groundworks. So overall, they are more expensive.
A fixed stable block increases your property value, as it is a permanent asset. You will likely attract the equestrian niche market when you sell your home. Moreover, fixed stables can generate some extra income: you can rent stalls to neighbouring horse owners.
Mobile stables, if sold with your property, will only increase its value by little.
Mobile stables generally do not require planning permission. That is because they are temporary buildings.
To build fixed stables on residential land, you might have to apply for planning permission. Small-scale private stables may fall under permitted development rights. However, stables near buildings on designated land, like Green Belt, require consent.
Bear in mind that building stables falls under permitted development if your land is for agricultural use.
Always check if you need planning permission from your Local Planning Authority before making an order.
Both mobile and fixed stables might qualify as capital allowance, if you run an equestrian business. That means you might be able to deduct their cost from your taxable profits.
Fixed stables might qualify as structures and buildings.
While mobile stables might qualify as buildings or plant.
Speak to a tax professional or accountant to understand if you can benefit from the tax relief. Eligibility depends on many factors, such as inheritance tax considerations.
At Chart Stables, we build fixed and mobile stables out of high-quality, sustainably sourced, pressure-treated timber.
Our mobile stables come in different dimensions and feature a heavy-duty towing chain and galvanised metal or pressure-treated timber skids. You can add a feed store, hay store, additional windows, or even a tack room.
Our fixed stables can be fully customised with different dimension stalls, a wash bay, a hay store, a tack room, a feed room, windows and doors, and your preferred roofing, cladding, and lining material.
