Maryland Manufactured Home HUD Standards: What Renters Need to Know

Renters of manufactured homes in Maryland often worry about safety, maintenance, and their rights under federal and state law. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets national standards that ensure manufactured homes are built and maintained for health and safety. Maryland has its own laws and resources that work hand-in-hand with these standards to protect tenants like you.

Understanding HUD Standards and Their Role in Maryland

The HUD Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards are national regulations for how manufactured (mobile) homes are built and installed. These standards, sometimes known as the "HUD Code," cover key areas such as:

• Structural strength and support
• Electrical and plumbing safety
• Fire safety measures
• Ventilation and energy efficiency

Every manufactured home built and sold in Maryland after June 15, 1976, must meet these standards. Homes that comply will have a red HUD Certification Label (a small metal tag) on the exterior.

Maryland Law and Manufactured Home Parks

Maryland has additional laws for the relationship between manufactured home park owners and residents, especially in the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act. This law protects both tenants and park owners, ensuring fair treatment, safe living environments, and clear maintenance responsibilities.

For manufactured home renters, these rules mean landlords must:

• Maintain common areas and shared utilities in accordance with health and safety codes
• Disclose park rules and rent terms in writing
• Respect your privacy and offer proper notice before entering your home (except in emergencies)
• Abide by state and federal eviction, rent increase, and habitability requirements

Forms and Processes for Maryland Manufactured Home Renters

It's helpful to know about the official government forms relating to manufactured home tenancy and HUD standards in Maryland:

• Form: HUD Manufactured Home Construction Complaint Form (HUD-4710)
  When to use: If you notice a serious defect or safety concern in your home—which may be due to faulty installation or a violation of the federal HUD code—use this form to start a complaint.
  Example: If your home's electrical panel sparks or your roof leaks despite repeated repairs, you can file this complaint.
  Official HUD Manufactured Housing Complaints Information
• Maryland Attorney General Manufactured Housing Park Complaint Form
  When to use: File this if a park owner fails to carry out required maintenance, illegally raises rent, or otherwise violates the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act.
  Example: You notice sewer backups or unsafe communal lighting that are unresolved after your request.
  Official Maryland Attorney General Manufactured Housing Resource

Always keep records of correspondence with your landlord or park management, and take photos or documentation of any conditions for your complaint.

Who Handles Manufactured Home Disputes and Tenant Protections?

In Maryland, disputes between tenants and park owners are typically overseen by local District Courts, but renters can also get support from the Maryland Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. For complaints about home construction or HUD standards, contact the HUD Baltimore Field Office.

The main Maryland law for manufactured home tenants is the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act.¹

Summary: Your Rights and What HUD Standards Mean for You

Manufactured home renters in Maryland have strong protections thanks to both federal HUD standards and state laws. Landlords must provide habitable homes and maintain shared spaces up to current codes.

1. What is the HUD Code for manufactured homes in Maryland?
   HUD Code is a set of federal standards governing how manufactured homes are built, installed, and repaired. All homes made after 1976 must comply. Look for the red HUD label on your home for proof.
2. How do I report a major safety or health defect in my manufactured home?
   Use the HUD Manufactured Home Construction Complaint Form (HUD-4710). You can find details and the form on the HUD official site.
3. Who do I contact with rent or park rule issues in Maryland?
   Contact the Maryland Attorney General Consumer Protection for manufactured housing concerns.
4. Are there specific Maryland laws for mobile home renters?
   Yes. The Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act outlines your rights as a tenant.
5. Can my landlord enter my manufactured home without notice?
   In most cases, Maryland law requires landlords to provide advance notice, except for emergencies. Check your lease and state law details.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Baltimore Field Office – Questions about HUD home standards
• Maryland Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division – For all manufactured home and tenant complaints
• Maryland District Courts – Landlord/Tenant Resources – For dispute resolution and legal information
• Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act – Full Legislation

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1. See the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act for state law on manufactured/mobile home tenant rights.
2. More on HUD federal home standards: 24 CFR Part 3280 – Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards.
3. Maryland Attorney General complaints and resources: Official Manufactured Housing Complaint Page.
4. HUD complaints and resources: HUD official FAQ for manufactured housing complaints.

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