Indiana Mobile Home Park Rent Increase Limits Explained

If you live in a mobile home park in Indiana, understanding your rights around rent increases is essential. Indiana law treats mobile home parks differently from typical apartments, and knowing these rules helps you protect yourself and plan for the future. This article explains Indiana's current laws and provides actionable advice for mobile home residents facing a rent hike.

How Rent Increases Work in Indiana Mobile Home Parks

In Indiana, mobile home park landlords may increase rent, but there are legal requirements they must follow. The rules for rent hikes are different from local rent control ordinances in other states, and it's important to know what applies in Indiana.

Are There Limits to Rent Increases?

Unlike some states, Indiana does not set a maximum amount for rent increases in mobile home parks. Landlords generally have the right to increase lot rent by any amount, as long as they follow required notification procedures.

• No cap on rent hikes: Indiana law does not limit how much a park owner can increase your rent.
• Proper notice is required: Landlords must give you at least 60 days’ written notice before increasing rent in a manufactured home community.^[1]
• No local rent control: State law prohibits local governments from enacting rent control on mobile home parks.^[2]

This means rent can increase by any amount, but only with proper notice. Always check your rental agreement, as it may outline when increases can occur (for example, only at the end of your lease term or annually).

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Under Indiana Code 32-31-7, landlords must provide written notice at least 60 days before the effective date of a rent increase.

• The notice must be in writing—oral notification is not valid.
• Delivery can be in person or via regular mail. Keep a copy of the notice for your records.
• If you receive a notice by mail, add three calendar days for delivery time under Indiana law.^[1]

For example, if your landlord wants to raise rent on July 1, they must provide written notice no later than May 2 (or April 29 if mailed).

Relevant Official Forms in Indiana

Indiana law does not require a specific statewide form for mobile home park rent increase notices. However, you may receive an official written letter or notice from your landlord. If you believe your landlord has not complied with the required process, you can use general complaint or small claims forms. Here are two examples:

• Civil Complaint (State Form 34607)
  When to use: If you want to file a lawsuit regarding improper notice or an unjust eviction after a rent increase.
  How it’s used: Complete the Civil Complaint form and file it with your local county court. Provide all relevant details and attach copies of landlord notices.
• Indiana Small Claims Forms
  When to use: To resolve rent disputes under a set financial limit.
  How it’s used: Download from the Indiana Judicial Branch forms portal. Prepare your documentation, then file with the small claims court in your county.

What Law Governs Mobile Home Parks in Indiana?

The main law for mobile home parks is the Indiana Code 32-31-7: Tenant Relations in Manufactured Home Communities. This law sets out tenant and landlord responsibilities, including rent increase rules and required notice periods.

Mobile home renters are also covered by Indiana Code 32-31: Landlord-Tenant Relations for general tenancy issues.

Where to Go for Disputes or Complaints

Indiana does not have a special residential tenancy board or tribunal. Disputes are usually handled by your local county small claims or civil court. You can find the appropriate court via the Indiana Judicial Branch website. If you have a complaint about your landlord’s practices, you may also contact the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

FAQ: Mobile Home Park Rent Increases in Indiana

1. Can my landlord raise my rent at any time?
   Usually, rent can only be increased at the end of your lease term unless your agreement allows for mid-term increases. Your landlord must still give you a 60-day written notice.
2. Is there a limit to how much my rent can go up?
   No, Indiana law does not cap rent increases in mobile home parks. Landlords must only provide proper notice.
3. What should I do if I didn't get a 60-day notice?
   You can provide written communication with your landlord and, if unresolved, consider contacting local legal aid or filing a complaint with a small claims court.
4. Are there protections against retaliatory rent increases?
   Indiana law prohibits landlords from increasing rent or evicting tenants solely because the tenant exercised a legal right, such as making a complaint. Document all interactions if you suspect retaliation.
5. Where can I get legal help for a rent dispute?
   You can contact local legal aid services or the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Mobile Home Renters

• Indiana law does not limit rent increases in mobile home parks, but landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice.
• There are no state or local rent control laws on mobile home parks.
• Keep all communication about rent increases and consult court forms if you believe your rights were violated.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Official Court Forms – Find forms for small claims and civil complaints.
• Indiana Legislation: Manufactured Home Community Tenancy Law
• Indiana Judicial Branch – Locate county courts for dispute resolution.
• Indiana Attorney General Consumer Complaint – File a consumer protection complaint.
• Indiana Legal Help – Free and low-cost legal advice for renters.

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1. Indiana Code 32-31-7-5: Notice of Rent Increase in Manufactured Home Community
2. Indiana Code 32-31-1-20: Prohibition of Rent Control by Local Governments

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