Arkansas HUD Manufactured Housing Standards: Renter Guide

Understanding the federal HUD standards for manufactured housing in Arkansas is key for renters living in mobile homes or manufactured housing communities. These standards, along with Arkansas state laws, help protect your right to safe and healthy housing. This guide explains the basics and practical steps so you can confidently address concerns about your home’s safety or condition.

What Are HUD Standards for Manufactured Housing?

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has set national construction and safety standards for manufactured homes placed on the market after June 15, 1976. These HUD standards cover structural integrity, fire safety, energy efficiency, and installation methods. In Arkansas, manufactured homes must comply with both these federal standards and state laws, ensuring renters have basic protections regarding their home’s safety.

How HUD Standards Affect Arkansas Renters

• Minimum Construction Requirements: All new manufactured homes sold or leased must meet HUD regulations for durability and design.
• Safety and Health: Includes proper ventilation, safe electrical systems, smoke alarms, and fire resistance.
• HUD Certification Label: Every HUD-compliant home has a metal label (sometimes called a "HUD tag") attached to the exterior. Check your home for this label and request it from your landlord if not visible.
• Repairs and Maintenance: Landlords are responsible for ensuring the rental home remains in compliance with HUD safety standards during your tenancy.

If you have concerns that your home is unsafe or doesn’t meet HUD standards, you have resources and agencies to help.

Arkansas Law: Tenant Rights in Manufactured Housing

Manufactured home renters in Arkansas are protected by both federal HUD rules and the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (ARLTA). Under these laws:

• You have the right to a home free from dangerous conditions and substantial defects.
• Landlords must maintain the premises and handle essential repairs to keep your home up to code.
• You are entitled to written notice before rent increases or eviction actions.

The state agency overseeing these matters is the Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission (AMHC), which investigates safety or installation complaints.

Common Rental Issues: Safety, Repairs, and Disputes

Renters may experience problems like unsafe electrical wiring, water damage, mold, or improper home installation. If you face these, here’s what to do:

• Document the problem: Take photos, note dates, and keep all communication with your landlord in writing.
• Notify your landlord in writing of the issues and request timely repairs.
• If there’s no response, contact the Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission or file a formal complaint as shown below.

Official Forms & How to Use Them

• Arkansas Manufactured Home Consumer Complaint Form
  When to use: If you have a complaint about your home’s safety, installation, or a dispute with your landlord about HUD compliance.
  How to use: Complete the form online or print and mail it. Include a clear description and supporting documents or photos.
  Submit a manufactured home complaint (official form)
• Arkansas Notice to Landlord of Required Repairs (no state-issued form number)
  When to use: To provide written notice to your landlord about needed repairs. While there’s no official Arkansas template, a written letter or email stating the repairs and giving reasonable time for a response is required by the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.
  In action: State your address, description of the problem, the date, and that you want the issue fixed promptly. Keep copies for your records.

Arkansas Tribunals & Agencies Handling Manufactured Housing Issues

The Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission (AMHC) is the main state board handling manufactured housing complaints, safety issues, and dealer/installer licensing.

If your complaint isn’t resolved locally, disputes about lease or eviction can also be taken to Arkansas district courts.

FAQ: Manufactured Housing Rights for Arkansas Renters

1. What can I do if my landlord refuses to make repairs to my manufactured home?
   If you’ve notified your landlord in writing and there’s no action, you can file a complaint with the Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission. Retain all proof of your communications and follow state legal procedures for further action.
2. How do I know if my mobile home meets HUD standards?
   Check for the HUD certification label on your home’s exterior. If it’s missing or if you suspect your home does not meet safety standards, you can contact AMHC or HUD for inspection help.
3. Is my landlord required to give notice before raising rent or eviction in a manufactured home park?
   Yes, written notice is required under the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.
4. What official form do I use to report safety issues in my mobile home?
   Use the Manufactured Home Consumer Complaint Form to file safety-related issues with the Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Manufactured Home Renters

• Federal HUD standards protect your health and safety when renting manufactured housing in Arkansas.
• The Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act outlines your rights to safe repairs and due notice.
• Keep all communications and use official complaint resources if needed.

Familiarize yourself with both your rights and the procedures to report problems—being proactive helps safeguard your housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission: Main oversight agency for complaints, licensing, and inspections.
• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007: State law outlining your renter rights.
• HUD Arkansas Renters Resource Page: Federal guidance for renters, including mobile and manufactured home issues.
• Arkansas Legal Services - Mobile Home Tenant Rights: Legal information and aid for renters (official partner of the state legal aid network).

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1. HUD Manufactured Home Standards: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/rmra/mhs/mhslabels
2. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007: https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/2023/title-18/subtitle-2/chapter-17/
3. Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission: https://www.arkansas.gov/agency/arkansas-manufactured-home-commission/
4. Official AMHC Consumer Complaint Form: https://www.ark.org/ahc/consumercomplaint/index.php

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