Maine Mobile Home Park Closure: Renter Relocation Rights

Receiving notice that your mobile home park in Maine will close can be overwhelming. Understanding your rights as a mobile or manufactured home renter is crucial, especially regarding relocation assistance and the steps you should take next. This guide explains Maine's current laws, the support available if your park is closing, and how to access official resources and forms.

Understanding Maine Mobile Home Park Closures

In Maine, if the owner of a mobile home park intends to close or convert the park (for example, for development), they are required by law to provide advance written notice to each tenant. This includes important information about relocation, timelines, and your eligibility for assistance under state law.

Notice Requirements and Timelines

Park owners must give tenants a minimum 18-month written notice before closing a mobile home park. This advance notice is required so renters have sufficient time to find a new location or arrange alternative housing.

• The written notice must be hand-delivered or mailed to every tenant.
• It should state the intended closure date and include information about your options and rights.

For complete details, see the Maine Revised Statutes Title 10, §9097 – Closure or Conversion of Mobile Home Parks.¹

Your Right to Relocation Assistance

Maine law provides for potential relocation assistance when a park closes. This support is designed to help mobile home owners and renters with the costs of moving or replacing their homes. The amount and type of assistance depend on several factors, including income eligibility and program availability.

• Qualifying households may be eligible for relocation reimbursement or direct moving expenses if eligible under state programs.
• The Maine State Housing Authority (MaineHousing) coordinates financial assistance and applications for eligible tenants.

How Do I Qualify for Assistance?

Eligibility is primarily based on your income and whether your mobile home can be relocated. Tenants should contact MaineHousing or a legal services agency promptly upon receiving a closure notice to determine their options and start the process early.

Required Official Forms

• Application for Relocation Assistance (No formal state form number)
  • When/how to use: This form is submitted to MaineHousing if you are seeking financial help with moving your home. For example, if you received a park closure notice and cannot afford moving costs, you complete this application as soon as possible.
  • Download the Relocation Assistance Application and instructions from MaineHousing.
• Notice of Park Closure
  • How it works: Landlords must provide you with this official written document outlining closure dates and your rights. Keep your copy—it may be required for relocation applications or legal advice.
  • Review requirements for Notice of Park Closure in Maine law.

Where to Get Help: Maine Authorities and Tribunals

The Maine Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection and MaineHousing are your go-to state agencies for questions about mobile home park closures and renter rights. Maine does not have a single statewide residential tenancy tribunal, but disputes may be handled in Maine District Court or reached via mediation.

Tip: Respond to closure notices right away. File for assistance as soon as you’re notified, as funds or relocation sites may be limited.

Steps to Take if Your Mobile Home Park Is Closing

Taking action early improves your chances of getting help and finding new housing. If your park is closing, do the following:

• Review the closure notice to confirm timelines and your rights.
• Contact MaineHousing for relocation support, and fill out the Application for Relocation Assistance form if eligible.
• Gather documents (income, your closure notice, home ownership or rental information).
• Consult a local legal aid office or the Maine Bureau of Consumer Protection if you need help understanding your options or have trouble with your landlord.
• Plan your move or arrange for the sale/disposal of your mobile home as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do first if I receive a mobile home park closure notice in Maine?
   Carefully read the closure notice for important dates. Contact MaineHousing and request information about relocation assistance and available resources.
2. How much relocation assistance can I get in Maine?
   The amount varies based on your income and whether your home can be moved. Contact MaineHousing for current limits and eligibility guidelines.
3. Do I have to move my mobile home by myself?
   No. Relocation assistance can be used to pay professional movers or offset the costs of selling or disposing of your home if moving it isn’t feasible.
4. Can I dispute a closure notice or timing?
   If you believe the notice doesn’t comply with Maine law (like not giving you enough notice), you may seek legal advice or file a complaint in Maine District Court.
5. Where do I get the official forms for relocation help?
   Visit MaineHousing’s website to download the Application for Relocation Assistance and review instructions.

Key Takeaways for Maine Mobile Home Renters

• If your mobile home park is closing, your landlord must provide at least 18 months’ written notice.
• Relocation assistance may be available—apply early with MaineHousing for the best chance of support.
• Save all documents, and reach out to state agencies or legal aid for personalized help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• MaineHousing: Relocation Assistance Resources
• Maine Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection – Renter Help
• Relevant Maine Statute: Mobile Home Park Closure and Relocation
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance: Free Legal Aid for Renters

---

1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 10, §9097 – Closure or Conversion of Mobile Home Parks
2. MaineHousing: Mobile Home Park Closure Relocation Assistance
3. Maine Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection – Consumer Rights

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