Inspections
Manufactured Housing Inspectors are responsible for inspecting manufactured homes, mobile homes and commercial coaches after they have been installed to make sure they are set-up safely and within state guidelines. In some areas of the state, the Division contracts inspection services with city and county building departments or independent inspectors.
What is involved in the installation of a manufactured home?
Installation is one of the most important elements of purchasing a new manufactured home. The following items should be considered: (1) locality's requirements for zoning, septic, electrical and/or building permits; (2) site preparation and access to the site; (3) stable soil and proper foundation system, including the anchoring system, that is approved/listed for use in the proper class of soil (this information may be available in the manufacturer's written instructions or obtained from State or local building officials); (4) perimeter enclosure may be either recommended or required; (5) utility hook-ups as addressed in the installation manual provided with the home; and (6) the proper ventilation and discharge of moisture from under the home (i.e. dryer vents and air-conditioning condensates.)
Who should install/set up my home?
Normally, an installer may be either the home dealer, which is also licensed as an installer, or someone/company under contract with the dealer to perform the installation.
- Obtain a written assurance that the installer is qualified, licensed, and will install your new home in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
- Discuss with the installer the steps involved in the installation so you understand them.
- Make sure the installer and dealer include all amenities of the installation (i.e. skirting, patio covers, car ports, etc.) in the contract or installation agreement.
- If you are going to install your home on private property ask your dealer and installer what preparations you must complete before the home can be installed. This will help the installation process go much smoother.
- Ask if there is a written warranty covering your home's installation.
By following these guidelines, you will know exactly what you are paying to have done, how to check your home to see that the work has been done properly, and equally important, what kind of warranty protection covers each step.
How should I choose a site for my new home?
Site selection is critical to the performance of your home. Easy access to the site ensures that trees or branches that may cause damage to your home will not impede the transporter.
- Make certain that your home site is properly prepared and that water drains away from the foundation.
- The home site should be as level as possible.
- The soil must be graded and sloped away from the home for water runoff.
- Any fill soil must be compacted so that the foundation will not sink or shift.
Whom do I contact if my home was damaged during installation?
If the installation was provided through the manufactured home dealer, then they should be your first contact. If the dealer did not arrange for the installation and you chose the installer, you should contact the installer. It is advised that you always make your complaints in writing as well as by telephone. If you are not satisfied with the repair, you may contact the Division and request to file a written consumer complaint.