Kentucky Mobile Home Eviction Protections Explained

If you own a mobile or manufactured home and rent a lot in Kentucky, it’s important to understand your eviction protections and rights. Kentucky law treats mobile home owners in parks or communities somewhat differently from apartment renters. This guide covers what Kentucky mobile home owners need to know about eviction, required landlord actions, and how to protect your family and housing stability.

Understanding Eviction for Mobile Home Owners in Kentucky

In Kentucky, if you own your mobile home but rent the land (“lot”) where it sits, you have special protections under state law. These rules help ensure you get fair notice and a chance to fix problems before you can be evicted.

When Can a Mobile or Manufactured Home Owner Be Evicted?

A landlord can only evict you from a mobile home park for specific legal reasons, including:

• Nonpayment of rent
• Repeated or substantial violation of park rules or your lease
• Serious health or safety violations
• Failure to maintain your lot as required
• The park being closed or changed to another use (with proper notice)

Landlords cannot evict you without proper cause or in retaliation for asserting your rights.

Required Notices for Eviction

Before any eviction court action, your landlord must provide a written notice (often called a "Notice to Quit" or Notice of Termination). Here are some key notice types:

• Nonpayment of Rent: You must get at least 14 days’ written notice. If you pay the amount due within those 14 days, the landlord must stop the eviction process.
• Violation of Lease or Rules: You must receive at least 14 days’ written notice, describing how you broke the rule or lease term. The notice typically gives you time to fix the issue ("cure") before eviction is filed.
• Park Closure/Change of Use: Landlords must provide a minimum of 180 days’ notice if the mobile home park is closing or converting to another type of use.

Evictions must follow the procedure set by the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS), Chapter 381, specifically sections 381.9101 to 381.9209, known as the Manufactured Home Communities Act.^[1]

Official Forms and How They’re Used

The eviction process in Kentucky for mobile home owners uses several official forms, mostly handled by the local District Court. Here are some key forms and how they may affect you:

• Forcible Detainer Complaint (AOC-216)
  Form AOC-216 is filed by a landlord if they move forward with an eviction in District Court. As a mobile home owner, if you receive a copy, attend the hearing or file a response promptly to present your defense. Example: Your landlord claims you did not pay rent, files AOC-216, and you want to show receipts or discuss payment options.
• Notice to Quit/Notice to Vacate
  There is no official state form, but written notice is required by law. Keep all paperwork you receive, especially anything titled “Notice to Vacate” or similar, as you may need it in court or when seeking help.
• Answer to Complaint
  Kentucky courts allow you to file an answer in District Court challenging the eviction. While there’s no fillable statewide form, you can respond in writing or in person at your hearing. If you believe the eviction notice was improper or retaliatory, state this clearly.

Where Are Disputes Handled?

If you and your landlord cannot resolve the issue, eviction cases are decided in your local Kentucky District Court. You can find your court at the Kentucky Court of Justice Find a Court page.

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice

It’s important to act quickly. Here are the basic steps you can take:

• Read the notice carefully—note the reason, date, and any “cure” period.
• Gather proof if you paid rent or fixed a cited violation.
• Contact the landlord if you believe the notice is a mistake or wish to remedy the problem.
• Attend any court hearings set by the District Court.
• Ask the court about filing a response if you wish to contest the eviction.
• Seek legal aid or advocacy help right away if you need support.

FAQ: Kentucky Mobile Home Eviction Rights

1. How much notice must a landlord give before evicting a mobile home owner for nonpayment?
   At least 14 days’ written notice is required. You have the right to pay what’s owed during this time to stop the eviction.
2. Can a landlord evict a mobile home owner without a court order?
   No. Kentucky law requires a court order before any eviction can be enforced. Self-help evictions are illegal.
3. What rights do I have if the mobile home park is closing?
   You are entitled to at least 180 days’ advance written notice to allow for relocation of your home or to make other arrangements.
4. What happens if I fix the issue during the notice period?
   If you pay overdue rent or correct a rule violation within the allowed time, the landlord generally can’t move forward with the eviction.
5. Where can I get free legal help with a mobile home eviction in Kentucky?
   You can contact Kentucky Legal Aid or the Kentucky Court of Justice Self-Help center for free resources and assistance.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Mobile Home Owners

• Landlords must give proper written notice and a chance to correct most issues before eviction can be filed.
• Eviction cases are handled by Kentucky District Courts. Always respond promptly and attend hearings if summoned.
• Know your rights—consult the Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 381, and seek assistance if you face eviction.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky District Court Finder – Locate your court for eviction and housing disputes.
• Kentucky Equal Justice Center – Legal help and information for renters statewide.
• Kentucky Court of Justice Self-Help – Step-by-step guides and contact points for legal support.
• Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 381 – Manufactured Home Communities Act – Official laws and detailed renter protections.

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1. Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) Chapter 381: Manufactured Home Communities Act
2. Kentucky District Court Forcible Detainer (Eviction) Complaint Form AOC-216
3. Kentucky Court of Justice - Self-Help

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