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Understanding the Legal Definition of Manufactured Home
Definition & Meaning
A manufactured home is a type of housing that is built in a factory and is designed to be transported to a site where it will be used as a dwelling. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a manufactured home is typically ready for occupancy once it leaves the factory. It must meet specific federal standards for construction and safety.
To qualify as a manufactured home, the structure must be:
Transportable in one or more sections
At least eight feet wide or forty feet long in traveling mode, or at least three hundred twenty square feet when erected
Built on a permanent chassis
Designed to be used as a dwelling, with or without a permanent foundation
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The term "manufactured home" is primarily used in housing law and regulations. It is relevant in areas such as property law, zoning, and housing finance. Understanding the classification of a manufactured home can affect property taxes, zoning regulations, and eligibility for certain types of financing.
Users may find legal templates related to manufactured homes on platforms like US Legal Forms, which can assist in navigating issues such as buying, selling, or financing a manufactured home.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A family purchases a manufactured home to place in a mobile home park. They benefit from lower housing costs and the ability to move their home if necessary.
Example 2: A manufactured home is placed on a permanent foundation and connected to local utilities, allowing the owners to live comfortably year-round. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary federal statute governing manufactured homes is the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974. This law establishes the standards for construction and safety that manufactured homes must meet.
State-by-state differences
State
Key Differences
California
Strict zoning laws that may affect placement of manufactured homes.
Florida
Specific regulations regarding hurricane safety standards for manufactured homes.
Texas
Manufactured homes are treated similarly to traditional homes for property tax purposes.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Modular Home
A home built in sections in a factory and assembled on-site.
Modular homes usually meet local building codes, while manufactured homes must meet federal standards.
Mobile Home
An older term often used interchangeably with manufactured home.
Mobile homes refer to homes built before the 1976 HUD standards, while manufactured homes meet current regulations.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are considering purchasing a manufactured home, it is important to understand the regulations in your state and local area. You may want to:
Research local zoning laws to determine where you can place a manufactured home.
Consult with a real estate attorney or a knowledgeable real estate agent.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates related to purchasing or financing a manufactured home.
If your situation is complex, consider seeking professional legal assistance.
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