Maryland Relocation Assistance for Mobile Home Residents

If your mobile home park is closing in Maryland, it’s important to know your rights, what financial help might be available, and the steps to take to protect your home and family. Understanding Maryland’s laws on relocation assistance and how to navigate the closure process can help you plan your next steps with confidence.

Understanding Mobile Home Park Closures in Maryland

When a landlord intends to close or redevelop a mobile home park in Maryland, state law provides certain protections for residents. These include advance notice, eligibility for relocation assistance, and guidance for moving your home or finding new housing.

Notice Requirements from Park Owners

Under the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act, the park owner must provide each resident and the county government at least 6 months’ written notice before closing or converting the park to another use.^[1]

• The notice must include the planned closure date and information about available relocation assistance.
• If you receive a closure notice, keep a copy in your records. This starts your window for seeking assistance.

Relocation Assistance for Affected Residents

Maryland law helps some residents with the cost of moving their mobile home when a park closes. Eligibility for aid depends on your circumstances, such as whether you own your home and your income level.

• The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) administers the Relocation Assistance Fund.
• If you qualify, you can receive funds to cover the actual, reasonable costs of moving your home to a different mobile home park.
• Assistance is not automatic—you must apply and meet income and residency requirements set by DHCD.

How to Apply for Relocation Assistance

Residents can apply for relocation funding through the official DHCD program. Below is the key form and steps:

• Form Name: DHCD Mobile Home Park Relocation Assistance Application
  When to Use: Use this form after receiving a 6-month closure notice from your park owner to request financial help with moving your mobile home.
  Where to Get: Download directly from DHCD's official site.

Example: If you own a mobile home in a closing park and meet the state's income guidelines, fill out the application, attach all required documentation (such as your closure notice and moving estimates), and submit it to DHCD as directed on the form.

What Costs Are Covered?

If approved, Maryland’s Relocation Assistance Fund generally covers:

• Professional moving expenses for your home
• Disconnecting and reconnecting utilities
• Permitting and set-up fees at the new location
• Other documented costs tied to your move (within reason and DHCD guidelines)

Funds are paid directly to service providers or, in some cases, reimbursed to the resident after reviewing receipts.

Key Maryland Laws & Tribunals Protecting Mobile Home Residents

Several laws and agencies oversee mobile and manufactured housing rights in Maryland:

• Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act – Main legislation outlining mobile home tenancy rights, including closure and relocation provisions.^[1]
• Maryland District Court – Hears landlord-tenant disputes if disagreements arise (such as about the validity of park closure or fair notice).
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) – Administers the relocation assistance program and protects housing rights.

Always refer to official Maryland laws or contact these agencies if you are unsure about your eligibility or next steps.

FAQ: Maryland Park Closure and Relocation Aid

1. How much notice must my park owner provide before closing the park?
   Maryland law requires at least 6 months’ written notice before a mobile home park can close or be redeveloped.
2. Can I get help if I rent my mobile home, not own it?
   The relocation assistance program is primarily for residents who own their mobile home, not those renting the home itself, but you should reach out to DHCD for guidance if you're affected.
3. What documents do I need for a relocation assistance application?
   You’ll typically need your closure notice, proof of home ownership, proof of income, and moving cost estimates when submitting your application.
4. Where do I file a complaint if my landlord doesn't give proper notice?
   You may contact your local county office or the Maryland District Court for rental disputes, or reach out to DHCD for guidance.
5. Is there a limit to the financial help I can receive?
   Yes, assistance is capped at reasonable, documented costs and may vary based on the program’s available funds and your needs.

Conclusion: What Maryland Mobile Home Residents Should Remember

• Park owners must give at least 6 months’ notice before a Maryland mobile home park closes.
• Relocation assistance is available if you own your home and qualify. Apply with DHCD using the official form.
• If you need legal help or further guidance, Maryland agencies offer resources and support for renters and mobile home owners.

By staying informed, keeping copies of important documents, and seeking help early, you can better navigate a mobile home park closure and protect your housing rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DHCD Manufactured Housing Program – Guidance, application forms, and phone support for mobile home relocation aid
• Maryland Courts Self-Help Center: Housing – Free legal information for landlord-tenant rights, including mobile homes
• Maryland People's Law Library – Plain-language information on landlord-tenant laws and additional help resources
• Maryland District Court Locator – Where to file disputes if your landlord does not comply with the law

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property, §§ 8A-101 to 8A-1805. See the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act.
2. Maryland DHCD: Manufactured/Mobile Home Park Relocation
3. Maryland District Court: Landlord-Tenant Information

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