Relocation Help for Mobile Home Park Closures in DC

If you rent a mobile or manufactured home in the District of Columbia, the prospect of your park closing can be overwhelming. Fortunately, DC law offers protections and relocation assistance to help you through this transition. Understanding your rights and the resources available to you can ensure that the process is as fair and manageable as possible.

What Happens If Your Mobile Home Park Closes?

In DC, park owners must follow strict legal requirements before closing a mobile home park. Tenants are entitled to advanced notice and supportive measures to help with relocation. The District government aims to protect renters from sudden displacement and financial hardship.

Tenant Notices and Required Timeline

• Notice Requirement: Park owners must provide written notice at least 180 days (6 months) before closing or a major change of use for the property.
• This notice must be delivered personally or by certified mail to both each resident and the District of Columbia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

The long notice period gives tenants time to explore options and access assistance programs.

Relocation Assistance for Mobile Home Tenants

DC law requires mobile home park owners to help tenants with the cost and logistics of moving when a park is closed or its use changes. This support is known as relocation assistance.

• Monetary Assistance: The park owner must pay eligible tenants a relocation payment. The amount is set by law and intended to cover moving costs and any damages caused by relocation. The DC government may adjust this amount annually based on inflation.
• Additional Help: The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) offers guidance and support throughout the process.

How Relocation Assistance Works in Practice

• After receiving the park closure notice, tenants should contact the DHCD for information about qualifications, payment amounts, and the timeline for assistance.
• If you disagree with the amount offered or experience delays, you may appeal to the Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA).

Tip: Document all communications with your park owner or management, and keep copies of every notice or letter related to your relocation.

Relevant Forms and Official Guidelines

• Notice of Park Closure or Change in Use (DC Official Form):
  • When to use: Park owners are required to give tenants this form at least 180 days in advance.
  • Tenant Example: If you receive this notice, review it carefully and keep it. It marks the start of your relocation and assistance timeline.
  • Mobile Home Parks Official Guidelines (DHCD)
• Relocation Assistance Application (DHCD):
  • When to use: Eligible tenants must submit this form to request payment.
  • Tenant Example: After the 180-day notice, you may apply for relocation help by completing the DHCD form and submitting required documents.
  • Find the application and instructions at DHCD's Mobile Home Parks page

Which Tribunal Handles Disputes?

If you face a problem with your relocation assistance or park closure, you can contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA). This office protects tenants' rights in the District of Columbia, including manufactured housing concerns.

Relevant DC Tenancy Legislation

Your rights are covered under the District of Columbia Rental Housing Act and related ordinances for mobile/manufactured home parks. These laws set out the requirements for notice periods and relocation assistance.¹

Summary: Main Points for DC Mobile Home Park Tenants

• You must receive at least 180 days' written notice before a park closure or major change is allowed.
• Tenants can access monetary relocation assistance through a set legal process with DHCD.
• If you believe your rights are not respected, you can seek help from the Office of the Tenant Advocate.

Contact the DC Department of Housing and Community Development early if you receive a park closure notice. The sooner you know your options, the better prepared you will be.

FAQ: DC Mobile Home Relocation Assistance

1. How much relocation assistance am I entitled to if my park closes?
   The specific amount changes annually and is set by DC law. Check with the Department of Housing and Community Development for the current figures.
2. How do I apply for relocation assistance in DC?
   Submit a completed Relocation Assistance Application to the DHCD after receiving your 180-day park closure notice.
3. Can my landlord evict me before the 180-day notice period ends?
   No, the park owner must give you at least 180 days' advance notice before any closure or change of use can take effect under DC law.
4. What if I did not receive an official notice about the park closing?
   You should contact the DHCD and the Office of the Tenant Advocate immediately for support and to report the issue.
5. Who do I contact if I have a dispute about my relocation assistance?
   The Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) can help you resolve disputes or file a formal complaint.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Mobile Home Parks Information – Guidance, forms, and contact information.
• Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) – Free advice, advocacy, and tenant support.
• Tenant Complaint Form (OTA) – Use this to report issues with your landlord or park owner.
• District of Columbia Rental Housing Code – Review the official tenancy laws for more details.

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1. District of Columbia Rental Housing Act and related ordinances, current through 2024.
2. DC Department of Housing and Community Development: Mobile Home Parks.
3. Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA): Tenants' rights guidance and complaint process.

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