5 Steps Adult Children Must Know for Mobile Home Placement

Planning to place a manufactured home on your parents’ property? It’s important to know the process involves more than just picking out a mobile home. From zoning laws to permits, there’s a lot to consider.

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Step 1. Familiarize Yourself with Mobile Home Regulations and Zoning Laws

Successfully placing a mobile home on your parents’ property requires understanding the regulations and zoning laws that apply. These rules differ from one location to another and can affect the placement and installation of your manufactured home.

In California, for example, a manufactured home can be placed on any lot zoned for a single-family dwelling. However, it must meet the same architectural standards as other homes in the area.

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Get familiar with local ordinances and restrictive covenants that could affect your plans. Certain communities may prohibit the use of manufactured homes or mandate an architectural review.

Step 2. Determine Land Ownership and Property Rights

Before proceeding with your plans, you’ll need to confirm the details of land ownership and understand the associated property rights. Even if your parents are okay with you placing a mobile home on their property, it’s essential to clarify whether the land is solely theirs or shared with other family members.

You also need to understand any land use restrictions that could impact your plans. For instance, if the property is part of a Homeowners’ Association (HOA), there may be regulations about the placement of manufactured homes.

If the land is inherited, you might have to consider other family members’ rights and opinions. It’s best to discuss this openly with your family and, if necessary, consult with a real estate attorney to prevent potential disputes.

Step 3. Research Mobile Home Installation Requirements

Before you can install a mobile home on your parents’ property, you’ll need to research the specific installation requirements in your area. This includes understanding the building codes and acquiring the necessary residential permits.

Also, depending on the local laws, there might be set distances that your home must be from the property line.

Furthermore, federal law requires all manufactured homes to meet certain design, construction, and safety standards as per the HUD code since 1976.

Your manufactured home provider can provide help and guidance during this process, as they’re usually familiar with these zoning ordinances and permit requirements.

Step 4. Consider Property Taxes and Residential Permits

Another key consideration when placing a mobile home on your parents’ property is understanding the financial implications. This includes being aware of how this move will affect property taxes.

Adding a mobile home to the property could potentially increase its assessed value, leading to higher property taxes. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of residential permits.

In some municipalities, these permits are not approved until the payment of sales tax on the manufactured home has been certified. It’s crucial to factor in these costs when planning your budget.

Step 5. Understand Utility Connections and Planning Permission

When placing a mobile home on your parents’ property, it’s vital to understand the requirements related to utility connections and securing the necessary planning permission.

Your mobile home will require a connection to water, sewer, electricity, and possibly gas services. Each of these utilities has its own set of requirements, regulations, and potential costs.

Some lots may not even be near a public sewage system or capable of holding a septic tank. You also need to consider whether the land is suitable for the installation of a permanent foundation for your mobile home. Proper research and planning can help ensure a smooth installation process.

Step 6. Navigate Property Boundaries and Land Use Restrictions

Before installing a mobile home on your parents’ property, you’ll need to accurately determine the property boundaries to comply with local ordinances and land use restrictions.

This means understanding where your parents’ property begins and ends, and ensuring that the placement of the mobile home complies with any setback requirements from those boundaries.

Also, if there are restrictive covenants or zoning laws that limit the number of dwellings per acre or dictate where on the lot a dwelling can be placed, you will need to comply with these as well. It is advisable to have a professional survey of the land done to ensure accuracy.

Step 7. Ensure Proper Foundation and Setup of the Mobile Home

The final step in placing a mobile home on your parents’ property involves ensuring it has a solid foundation and is properly set up. The type of foundation required can depend on various factors, including local building codes, the type of soil on the land, and the specific design of your mobile home.

In some cases, the local law might specify requirements for the roof pitch and materials used. By following all relevant guidelines and regulations, you can ensure that your mobile home is safe, stable, and compliant with all local ordinances.