In years past, manufactured homes were referred to as "mobile homes," and, in fact, many people continue to refer to manufactured homes as such today. In the year 1980, the United States Congress adopted the phrase "manufactured homes" to describe a type of factory-built home that was required to conform to certain standards developed by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Manufactured homes are unique in that they are constructed in such a way that they can be transported to a lot on their own wheels.

How Can I Determine When a Manufactured Home Was Constructed?

In order to determine information specific to the construction of a manufactured home, you should look for a data plate. Usually, the data plate will be located on or near the main electrical panel, in a kitchen cabinet, or in a closet in the bedroom. The data plate will provide information on the date of manufacture, as well as the manufacturer. In addition, a red HUD label affixed to the exterior of the manufactured home will bear the serial number of the home.

What Do I Need to Know About Finding a Location for My Manufactured Home?

The placement of manufactured homes is governed by local zoning regulations, deed restrictions, restrictive covenants, and other types of documents. Before you make a commitment to buy land on which to situate your manufactured home, it is important to make a careful inspection of any restrictions as to the placement of manufactured homes.

Warranties and Other Protections

All manufactured homes must meet the federal building standards adopted and administered by HUD. The standards are referred to as the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards. The standards regulate the construction of manufactured homes, as well as the performance of systems within the homes. In addition, nearly all manufactured homes are covered by a manufacturer's warranty. The scope of the manufacturer's warranty is governed by the warranty itself and a careful review of the warranty is in order to determine the manufacturer's obligations. In addition, the retailer who sold the home may also offer a warranty. Lastly, the appliances in the manufactured home will also be covered by separate warranties provided by the manufacturers of the appliances.

For more information on consumer issues related to the purchase of manufactured homes, contact HUD or a related state agency or the Federal Trade Commission.

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