Understanding Mobile Home Lot Fees and Costs in Idaho

Many renters in Idaho choose manufactured or mobile homes as an affordable housing solution. If you rent a lot in a mobile home park, you'll likely encounter a specific charge known as a mobile home lot fee. Understanding what this fee covers, and the costs and protections in Idaho, can help you make informed decisions and better handle landlord interactions.

What Is a Mobile Home Lot Fee?

A mobile home lot fee is the monthly charge you pay to rent the land (lot) where your mobile or manufactured home is located within a park. This fee is separate from the cost of owning or renting the home itself. In Idaho, lot fees can vary based on location, park amenities, and included utilities.

What Does the Lot Fee Usually Cover?

• The right to occupy a lot within a registered mobile home park
• Access to shared community facilities (for example, clubhouse, pools, laundry)
• Common area maintenance and landscaping
• Some lot fees include basic utilities (water, sewer, garbage), but not always

Always review your rental agreement to see exactly what services your lot fee covers, as this can vary between parks.

Typical Costs for Mobile Home Lot Fees in Idaho

The cost of a monthly lot fee in Idaho generally ranges from about $300 to $600, but this can be higher or lower depending on:

• Park location and amenities
• Which utilities are included
• Market conditions and local demand

Mobile home park operators must provide proper written notice before increasing lot fees, following Idaho law.

Your Rights as a Mobile Home Lot Renter in Idaho

Idaho renters who lease a mobile home lot are protected under the Idaho Manufactured Home Residency Act (Idaho Code Title 55, Chapter 20). This law covers lease terms, fee increases, notice requirements, and dispute resolution for mobile home park residents.

Key Legal Protections Include:

• Written Rental Agreements: Landlords must provide a written rental agreement outlining all fees, rules, and conditions.
• Notice for Lot Fee Increases: Written notice is required at least 90 days before any increase in the lot fee.
• Eviction Protections: Eviction from a mobile home lot must follow proper legal procedures and notice periods.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Parks must maintain common areas and provided facilities in a safe, usable condition.

Official Forms: When and How to Use Them

While there is no single statewide form for all mobile home park issues in Idaho, there are official processes and forms for some situations:

• Idaho Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Form – Use this if you believe a mobile home park has violated your rights or engaged in unfair practices. Submit the Consumer Complaint Form online or by mail to the Idaho Attorney General. Example: If your landlord raises the lot fee without 90 days' written notice, you can file this form to request an investigation.
• Small Claims Court Forms – If you seek to recover damages (such as a security deposit not returned), you can file a small claims case. Use the Idaho Supreme Court official forms for small claims actions. Example: A renter files for return of a wrongly withheld deposit from a mobile home park operator.

Which Tribunal Handles Mobile Home Lot Disputes?

In Idaho, most landlord-tenant disputes—including issues over lot fees—are handled by the Idaho State Courts, specifically the county magistrate courts. For consumer protection complaints, contact the Idaho Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Legislation Protecting Mobile Home Lot Renters in Idaho

Your main source of legal rights is the Idaho Manufactured Home Residency Act. This legislation lays out the obligations of both mobile home park landlords and lot renters regarding fees, notices, evictions, and facility conditions.¹

FAQ: Mobile Home Lot Fees and Rights in Idaho

1. Can my landlord increase the lot fee without warning?
   No, in Idaho your mobile home park landlord must give at least 90 days’ written notice before any lot fee increase.
2. Do lot fees include utilities?
   It depends on your rental agreement. Some lot fees include water, sewer, or garbage while others do not. Always check your lease for details.
3. What should I do if I believe my rights are violated?
   You can submit a complaint to the Idaho Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division using the official Consumer Complaint Form.
4. Can I be evicted if I don’t pay my lot fee?
   Yes, but the park must follow legal eviction procedures under Idaho law, including notice requirements specified in the Manufactured Home Residency Act.
5. Where can I get help if I have a dispute about my lot fee?
   You can seek assistance from the Idaho courts, the Attorney General's office, or local legal aid organizations.

Key Takeaways for Idaho Mobile Home Lot Renters

• Your lot fee is what you pay to rent the land for your home, and may cover access to community amenities and some utilities.
• Idaho law requires written notice for any lot fee increases and protects your right to a written lease.
• Official complaint forms and the Idaho courts are available if you need to resolve disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Idaho Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division: Handles complaints about landlord practices and mobile home parks.
• Read the Idaho Manufactured Home Residency Act
• Idaho State Courts: For legal filings, small claims, or eviction disputes.
• Idaho Court Assistance Office: Offers legal forms and self-help resources for renters.

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1. Idaho Manufactured Home Residency Act (Idaho Code Title 55, Chapter 20)
2. Idaho Attorney General — Consumer Protection
3. Idaho State Courts
4. Idaho Court Assistance – Small Claims Forms

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