Understanding HUD Manufactured Housing Standards in Indiana

If you rent a manufactured or mobile home in Indiana, knowing your legal protections and housing standards is essential. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets nationwide rules for the construction and safety of manufactured homes. In Indiana, these federal rules combine with state law to ensure your home is safe and up to code. This article explains key HUD standards, how they protect renters, and what steps you can take if you face maintenance or safety problems with your manufactured home in Indiana.

What Are HUD Standards for Manufactured Housing?

HUD standards are federal requirements that establish safety, construction, and installation guidelines for manufactured (mobile) homes built after June 15, 1976. These rules are meant to protect residents from poor construction, fire hazards, and environmental dangers. All manufactured homes must display a red "HUD Certification Label" that proves they meet these strict standards.

• Construction Quality: HUD ensures manufactured homes are built to specific structural, plumbing, heating, and electrical safety codes.
• Installation: The Indiana State Department of Health oversees proper home installation, making sure homes are safely anchored to the ground.
• Remodeling and Repairs: All repairs must also follow the HUD code, including any work done after you move in.

Your Rights as a Manufactured Home Renter in Indiana

As a renter of a manufactured home (sometimes called a mobile home), you are protected by both federal HUD standards and Indiana's state laws. The main state law covering tenant rights is the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relationships^[1]. For residents renting a lot (land) in a mobile home park, special rules apply under Indiana Code Chapter 32-31-7.

• Health and Safety: Your home must be safe, with working utilities, safe wiring, and proper weather protection under HUD standards.
• Eviction Protections: You cannot be evicted without proper written notice and due process. Consult the Indiana Residential Eviction Forms for more details^[2].
• Maintenance Requests: You have the right to request that your landlord address health or safety hazards, including those covered by HUD codes.

What is the HUD Certification Label?

This is a red metal plate attached to the outside of each manufactured home section. It shows the home meets all HUD Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards.^[3] If you think your home lacks this label or was altered unsafely, ask your landlord or contact the HUD Office.

Common Issues & Steps to Take

If you notice problems such as unsafe wiring, water leaks, roof damage, or if your landlord fails to make repairs, you have legal options. Manufactured home renters can:

• Notify your landlord in writing about the problem. Keep records of all communications.
• Use the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Form if your landlord repeatedly ignores safety or maintenance requests (File a Consumer Complaint).
• For new manufactured homes (under warranty), you can file a dispute with the HUD Office's Manufactured Housing Dispute Resolution Program. Learn more at the Indiana Manufactured Housing Program site.

If you are facing eviction, do not ignore any court papers. Indiana’s small claims courts handle eviction cases—responding promptly is crucial.

Relevant Indiana Forms for Manufactured Home Renters

• Eviction Summons (Form AR-2): Used when a landlord files for eviction. You may respond using forms in the Indiana Residential Eviction Forms Packet. If you receive this form, it's critical to appear in court on the specified date.
• Consumer Complaint Form: File with the Indiana Attorney General if you believe your home does not meet HUD standards and the landlord has not fixed the problem. Submit online here.

Always read forms carefully and seek help if you’re unsure how to respond.

Where to Turn if Issues Aren’t Solved

For unresolved code, safety, or maintenance complaints, the oversight body in Indiana is the Indiana Manufactured Housing Program (part of the Indiana Department of Health). For landlord-tenant disputes—such as eviction, non-repair, or lease enforcement—the relevant tribunal is the Indiana Small Claims Court in your county.

FAQ: Manufactured Housing Renters’ Rights in Indiana

1. What is the difference between a manufactured home and a mobile home?
   A manufactured home is the term for homes built after June 15, 1976, to HUD safety standards. "Mobile home" usually refers to older homes built before these rules.
2. Can my landlord evict me for reporting a safety violation?
   No, retaliation against tenants for enforcing HUD or health standards is illegal under Indiana Code 32-31-8.
3. How can I check if my manufactured home meets HUD standards?
   Look for the red HUD Certification Label on your home. You can also contact the HUD Office or the Indiana Manufactured Housing Program for verification.
4. What should I do if my landlord refuses to repair hazards?
   Send a written request, document the issue, and if unresolved, file a complaint through the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection division.
5. Does HUD handle rent increases or lease disputes?
   No, HUD focuses on construction and safety codes. Lease and rent issues should be addressed under Indiana's landlord-tenant law or in Small Claims Court.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Manufactured Home Renters

• All manufactured homes must meet HUD safety codes—look for the Certification Label.
• Your landlord is required to maintain a safe, habitable home and address major repairs.
• If a dispute arises, you have the right to file a complaint or respond to eviction notices promptly.

Knowing your rights can help you stay secure and informed in your manufactured home rental.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Landlord-Tenant Laws (official legislation)
• Indiana Manufactured Housing Program – state housing oversight and complaints
• HUD Indiana Field Office – federal oversight and information
• Indiana Judiciary – find your local small claims court
• Indiana Attorney General – File a Consumer Complaint

---

1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relationships
2. Indiana Residential Eviction Forms Packet (State Court Forms)
3. HUD Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards – FAQ

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations