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How HUD Monitors Manufactured Houses

Since 1974, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has overseen the Federal Manufactured Housing Program, a consumer protection program that regulates the construction of certain types of manufactured homes.

The HUD program covers residential manufactured homes, formerly called mobile homes, that have at least 320 square feet of living space. Homes covered by the program are tagged with a red label, which is the manufacturer's certification the house was built to HUD's construction and safety standards.

Manufactured Home Construction Standards

HUD works with state governments and private inspection agencies to develop and enforce manufactured home construction standards. Most states have established a State Administrative Agency (SAA) to enforce the program within their boundaries. Construction elements monitored include:

  • Body and frame elements
  • Thermal protection
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical
  • Fire safety
  • Other important systems of the home

You can order a free copy of the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, 24 CFR 3280, by calling the HUD Customer Service Center at 800-767-7468.

If You Have a Problem with Manufactured Housing

If you have a problem with your manufactured home, HUD suggests you first contact the retailer who sold it to you. If the retailer can't resolve the issue, contact the home's manufacturer. If neither of those avenues results in a solution, contact the SAA office in your state--or HUD if you live in a state without an SAA.

If you file a formal complaint, be prepared to include the following information:

  • Your name, address, and telephone number
  • Your home's manufacturer, its serial and model number, and the label number from its red tag
  • The date your home was purchased and the retailer you purchased it from
  • A description of the problem along with documentation of prior attempts to have it corrected

Find your SAA

SAA Contact Info I've had emails from consumers who are frustrated about problems with their homes, and who haven't been able to work through the system for a correction. Keep trying until you find someone at the state or federal level who will help you.
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