Kansas HUD Standards and Renter Rights for Manufactured Homes

Manufactured housing offers an affordable living option for many Kansans. Understanding the HUD standards for manufactured homes is essential for renters, as these rules protect your safety and your rights. This guide explains how federal and Kansas laws safeguard your manufactured home rental, maintenance requirements, and your options if problems arise.

Who Sets Manufactured Home Standards in Kansas?

In the United States, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) creates nationwide standards for manufactured homes—often called the HUD Code. In Kansas, these rules are enforced alongside landlord-tenant laws to keep you and your home safe.

• The HUD Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards set requirements for construction, installation, and durability. All new manufactured homes must meet these federal standards.
• The Kansas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division addresses renter safety, complaint processes, and landlord-tenant disputes.

What Does the HUD Code Cover?

The HUD Code (24 CFR Part 3280) covers essential safety features of manufactured homes, including:

• Fire safety, including smoke alarms and escape windows
• Proper ventilation and heating
• Durable plumbing, electrical, and construction requirements

Every HUD-certified manufactured home will have a red certification label. If you’re unsure about your home’s compliance, contact your landlord or the HUD Office of Manufactured Housing for more information.

What are Kansas Requirements for Renters and Landlords?

Renters in manufactured housing communities have protection under Kansas law, specifically the Kansas Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KSA 58-25,101 et seq.).^[1] This law outlines your right to a safe, habitable home and details landlord responsibilities for repairs and maintenance.

• Landlords must: Keep electrical, plumbing, heating, and ventilation systems working and meet HUD Code standards.
• Renters must: Keep the home clean, not damage the property, and follow community rules.

If your landlord fails to repair or maintain your home according to HUD or Kansas law, you have the right to request repairs and, in certain situations, withhold rent or end your lease after proper notice.

Filing a Housing Complaint in Kansas

If your landlord does not follow HUD standards or state law:

• Start by requesting repairs in writing to your landlord. Clearly list what needs to be fixed and allow a reasonable amount of time for a response.
• If the problem isn’t solved, you may file a complaint using the appropriate official forms and agencies (see below).

Key Forms and When to Use Them

• Kansas Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
  When to Use: File this form with the Kansas Attorney General if the landlord or park operator violates your rights under the Kansas Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (for example, if repairs aren’t completed or if you’re facing an illegal eviction).
  Access the official complaint form (PDF)
  Example: If repeated requests for safe plumbing go unanswered, filling out this form begins a formal investigation.
• HUD Manufactured Housing Complaints
  When to Use: If your manufactured home itself is not safe or does not meet HUD construction standards, use HUD’s complaint process.
  Report problems directly to HUD
  Example: If you discover electrical hazards or missing certifications, HUD can investigate.

If you feel unsafe in your manufactured home or your landlord isn’t addressing serious hazards, document everything and reach out to the appropriate agency right away.

Kansas Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes

Manufactured housing rental disputes in Kansas are typically handled by local district courts. However, complaints and enforcement of renters’ rights can also be addressed by the Kansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.^[2]

You can find district court locations and contact details on the Kansas Judicial Branch website.

Relevant Legislation for Mobile Home Renters

• Kansas Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KSA 58-25,101 et seq.)
• HUD Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (24 CFR Part 3280)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do manufactured homes in Kansas have to meet HUD standards?
   Yes, all new manufactured homes must meet HUD’s national safety and construction standards. Older homes may have different requirements.
2. What should I do if my landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs?
   Give written notice. If they do not respond, you may file a complaint with the Kansas Attorney General or local court.
3. Can I be evicted for requesting repairs on a manufactured home?
   No. Retaliation for exercising your rights, including repair requests, is illegal under Kansas law.
4. Who investigates complaints about unsafe manufactured housing?
   Complaints may be investigated by the Kansas Attorney General’s office or, for serious HUD Code violations, by HUD itself.
5. Where can I get help with eviction or habitability issues in a mobile home park?
   Contact the Kansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or your local district court for support.

Key Takeaways for Kansas Manufactured Housing Renters

• All manufactured homes must meet HUD safety standards and Kansas rental laws.
• Use official forms to file complaints if your landlord doesn’t address urgent safety or maintenance issues.
• Help is available from state agencies—don’t hesitate to reach out if you have concerns.

Knowing your rights can help protect your safety and peace of mind in your manufactured home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – Handles complaints about rental practices and safety.
• Kansas District Courts – For rental disputes and eviction issues.
• HUD Manufactured Housing Program – National information and complaint process for HUD Code standards.
• Kansas Housing Resources Corporation – Offers rental assistance and housing guidance.

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1. Kansas Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, KSA 58-25,101 et seq. Available here.
2. Kansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. Contact page.
3. HUD Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, 24 CFR Part 3280. Regulations text.

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