Dispute Resolution for Massachusetts Mobile Home Park Renters

If you rent a mobile home space in Massachusetts and are facing a dispute such as a rent increase, eviction, or repair issue, it's important to know there are official programs and processes in place to help you. Massachusetts law offers renters a pathway for resolving disagreements with mobile home park owners fairly and efficiently. This guide covers these options, official forms, and state agencies that can help.

Understanding Your Rights as a Mobile Home Park Resident

Residents of mobile home parks in Massachusetts have specific protections under state law. These rules are designed to ensure fair treatment, transparency in rent changes, proper notice before eviction, and access to maintenance or repairs. The Massachusetts Manufactured Housing Act outlines these rights and covers key issues like:

• Regulation of rent increases
• Notice requirements for terminations or evictions
• Park rules and the process for changing them
• Complaint and dispute resolution procedures

How Disputes Are Handled: Complaint and Mediation Options

Most issues between renters and mobile home park operators can be resolved by talking directly with the park owner or management. But if issues persist, Massachusetts law provides renters with access to local government support, mediation, and in some cases, formal hearings.

Local Board of Health and Consumer Affairs

If you believe your rights are being violated or if your unit is not properly maintained, contact your city's Board of Health. Boards of Health have the authority to inspect mobile home parks and enforce state regulations related to health and safety.

For other consumer-related complaints, you may also reach out to the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

Common Disputes Covered

• Disputes over unlawful rent increases
• Problems with park rules or rule changes
• Alleged improper eviction notices
• Failure to provide required maintenance

Filing an Official Complaint or Requesting Mediation

If a direct conversation is not successful, you may file a complaint with your local Board of Health or seek mediation services. Some towns have specific mobile home rent control boards or manufactured housing dispute resolution committees. Always keep copies of your correspondence and any forms you use.

Key Forms for Renters

• Board of Health Complaint Form — Use this to report unsafe or unhealthy living conditions in your mobile home park. Example: If your landlord has not repaired broken sewage lines, file this form with the local Board of Health. Submit via official Board of Health process.
• Consumer Complaint Form — Use this Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office form for complaints involving unfair practices (such as improper evictions or unlawful fees). Example: If your park owner imposes new charges without notice, submit this form. Access the official Consumer Complaint Form online.

In rent-controlled towns, check with your city or town hall for a Rent Increase Review Application or similar local form if you wish to formally challenge a proposed rent increase. For example, in some towns, you can request a public hearing before a rent control board.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

After your complaint is filed, the agency will typically review your concerns and may investigate or contact the park owner. Some towns offer mediation—where a neutral third party helps renters and owners resolve disputes informally. If no agreement is reached, the matter may be taken to Massachusetts Housing Court, the official tribunal for residential tenancy cases.

Where to Find Massachusetts Laws and Tribunals

• Massachusetts Manufactured Housing Act (General Laws Chapter 140, Sections 32A-32S)
• Massachusetts Housing Court – Handles landlord/tenant civil cases, including those relating to mobile home parks

Understanding the process helps renters protect themselves and seek fair solutions without unnecessary stress or cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my rent is increased without notice?
   If your rent is raised without proper written notice, you have the right to challenge it. File a complaint with your local Board of Health or contact your city’s rent control board if one exists.
2. How do I challenge an eviction from my mobile home park?
   Unless for cause, a park owner must follow strict notice procedures. You can respond by filing in Housing Court or seeking help from a legal aid group.
3. Who oversees mobile home park disputes in Massachusetts?
   The Massachusetts Housing Court is the official body for legal disputes. Local Boards of Health handle safety and health issues, and some towns maintain rent control boards.
4. How do I access mediation services?
   Ask your city or town hall about available municipal mediation. Some complaints can be referred to free or low-cost mediation programs.
5. Where can I find the official complaint forms?
   Board of Health Complaint Forms are at your city/town website. The state’s Consumer Complaint Form is available on the Attorney General’s site.

Key Takeaways

• Renters in Massachusetts mobile home parks have state-level protections for rent, eviction, and repairs.
• Local Boards of Health, Housing Courts, and consumer offices help resolve disputes.
• Use official complaint forms and act promptly if issues arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court – For tenant/landlord disputes
• Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation – Consumer protection info
• Massachusetts Attorney General's Office – File unfair practices complaints
• Find your local Board of Health and file a complaint
• Mass Legal Help – Housing Rights Information

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1. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 140, Sections 32A-32S
2. Massachusetts Housing Court
3. Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Process
4. How to File a Complaint with Your Board of Health

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