Maine Mobile Home Park Dispute Resolution: Renter's Guide
Disagreements in mobile home parks can arise over issues like rent increases, eviction notices, or maintenance concerns. If you rent a lot or home in a Maine mobile home park, understanding how to resolve disputes protects your housing and your rights. Maine law provides clear steps and helpful resources renters can use if they face trouble with their landlord or park owner.
Understanding Your Rights as a Maine Mobile Home Park Renter
Maine has specific laws covering mobile home parks, including how disagreements are resolved. The primary law is the Maine Manufactured Housing Act (Title 10, Chapter 953), which outlines tenant protections, landlord responsibilities, and dispute procedures.[1]
Common Disputes in Mobile Home Parks
- Rent increases
- Notices to quit (eviction)
- Poor park maintenance and repairs
- Rule enforcement or park policies
If talking directly with the park owner does not solve the problem, you have options for formal dispute resolution under Maine law.
Official Dispute Resolution: The Maine Manufactured Housing Board
In Maine, the Maine Manufactured Housing Board (MMHB) is the official tribunal that hears complaints between mobile home park residents and park owners. This state board investigates complaints, holds hearings, and can order remedies if it finds a park owner or operator violated tenant rights.
How the Board Helps Renters
- Accepts complaints about park owner violations of park laws
- Helps mediate and resolve disputes
- Can require park owners to correct rule violations, undo improper rent hikes, or complete necessary repairs
Before you file a complaint, it’s a good idea to speak to the park operator and try to resolve the issue directly. If this does not work, proceed with an official complaint to the Board.
Official Maine Manufactured Housing Board Complaint Form
- Form Name: Manufactured Housing Complaint Form
- Form Use: This form is used when a mobile home park renter in Maine cannot resolve a dispute with their landlord or park management, such as after a rent increase or ignored repair requests. For example, if your park owner raises the rent without proper notice or won't address repeated maintenance concerns, file this form with the Board.
- Download manufactured housing complaint form (Official PDF)
What Happens After You File?
- The Board will review your form and start an investigation.
- You may be contacted for more information or to attend a hearing.
- If the Board finds a violation, it can order the park owner to fix the problem or, in some cases, issue fines.
Steps for Resolving a Dispute with Your Mobile Home Park
Here’s a summary of what to do if you have a dispute with a park owner or management company in Maine.
- Document everything: Write down dates, names, and what was said or done. Take photos if possible.
- Ask in writing: Send a polite written request to your park owner or manager describing the issue.
- Use the Manufactured Housing Complaint Form: If the problem remains, fill out and mail the complaint form to the address provided on the form.
- Prepare for a hearing: The Board may ask for documents or schedule a time to hear from both sides.
What If You Receive an Eviction (Notice to Quit)?
If you receive a notice to leave your lot or home, Maine law requires the park owner to follow due process. You have specific protections:
- Written notice is required, stating the reason and providing at least 30 days (except for nonpayment, which may be shorter)
- You can respond and attend any court hearing (eviction cannot happen without a court order)
- If you believe the eviction is unfair or retaliatory, contact the Manufactured Housing Board for help
Helpful Legislation
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do before filing a complaint with the Manufactured Housing Board?
Try to resolve your issue directly with your park owner or manager in writing, keeping records of all conversations and correspondence. - Is there a fee to file a manufactured housing complaint in Maine?
No, currently there is no fee for renters to file a complaint with the Manufactured Housing Board. - Can the Board stop my eviction?
The Board does not have direct authority to stop evictions, but it can investigate if the eviction violates mobile home park laws, and its findings can influence court proceedings. - How long does a complaint investigation usually take?
Timelines vary, but the Board generally begins investigations within several weeks. Complex cases may take longer. - Where can I get more information about my rights as a mobile home park resident in Maine?
Visit the official Manufactured Housing Board website for resources, guides, and contact information.
Key Takeaways for Maine Mobile Home Park Renters
- You have strong rights under Maine law and can formally resolve disputes via the Manufactured Housing Board.
- Always try to communicate and document before filing an official complaint.
- The Board is a free and accessible resource dedicated to helping renters in mobile home parks.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- Maine Manufactured Housing Board – Official Dispute Resolution Board
Phone: (207) 624-9000 x50762 - Manufactured Housing Complaint Form (PDF)
- MaineHousing: Renter Rights and Services
- For legal assistance: Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Free Legal Help for Renters
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