Understanding Mobile Home Park Rules & Tenant Rights in Massachusetts

Living in a mobile home park in Massachusetts comes with unique rights and responsibilities for both tenants and park owners. Knowing these rules is essential, especially if you have concerns about rent increases, park regulations, or eviction. This guide explains your rights as a resident, important forms, and where to seek help under Massachusetts law.

Key Rules for Mobile Home Parks in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has specific laws to protect people living in mobile home parks. These rules cover rent increases, park regulations, evictions, and dispute resolution. The main law is Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Sections 32A–32S, sometimes called the "Manufactured Housing Act."^[1]

• Park owners must provide a written copy of the park rules to each tenant when they enter into a rental agreement.
• Rules must be reasonable, apply equally to all tenants, and be approved by the state’s Manufactured Housing Division within the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
• Rules cover areas such as noise, parking, pets, home appearance, and maintenance responsibilities.
• Any changes to park rules or rent must be given to tenants with at least 30 days' written notice.

If you feel a park rule is unfair or not being followed properly, you have a right to ask for assistance.

Rent Increases in Mobile Home Parks

In Massachusetts, park owners are required to provide at least 30 days' advance written notice before raising the rent. In some cities and towns, there are local rent control or stabilization boards that may limit how much and how often your rent can be raised.

• Check with your town or city housing office for local rules about rent control.
• Rent increases must be in writing and delivered properly.

If you believe your rent has been raised unlawfully, you may file a complaint or seek help from DHCD or your local board.

Eviction Protections for Mobile Home Park Tenants

Massachusetts law offers extra protections to mobile home park residents. You can only be evicted for a limited number of reasons set out by law, such as:

• Nonpayment of rent
• Substantial rule violations (after written notice)
• Illegal activity in the park
• Failure to correct a violation after notice

Before any eviction, the park owner must follow strict legal steps, including providing a proper notice and taking the case to court if necessary.

Filing a Complaint about Park Rules or Eviction

The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) oversees manufactured housing issues. If you feel your rights are being violated, or you have a dispute about park rules or eviction, you can file a formal complaint with DHCD using the Manufactured Housing Complaint Form.

• Form: Massachusetts Manufactured Housing Complaint Form (no official form number)
• Complaint Form – Manufactured Housing Office
• When and how to use: Use this form if you have issues with rent increases, park maintenance, unfair rules, or illegal eviction attempts. Complete the form with details of your issue and submit it by email, mail, or fax to DHCD as listed on the form.

Once DHCD receives your complaint, they will review and investigate the issue. You may be asked for additional information or mediation may be offered.

Your Basic Rights as a Mobile Home Park Tenant

• The right to live in your home free from unfair eviction
• The right to challenge unreasonable rules or rent increases
• The right to receive proper notice of rule changes or rent hikes
• The right to proper repairs and maintenance from the park owner

Where to Take Legal Action or File a Dispute

If you cannot resolve a dispute through communication or mediation, you may consider bringing your case to court. The Massachusetts Housing Court hears cases about mobile home park evictions, rule violations, and tenant-landlord matters.^[2] DHCD also provides guidance and oversight for manufactured home tenants.

What Is the Relevant Tenancy Law in Massachusetts?

Your rights are outlined in the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Sections 32A–32S (Manufactured Housing Act). This law explains the obligations of park owners and the protections for tenants.

1. Can a mobile home park evict me without a good reason?
   No. By state law, a park owner can only evict you for limited, specific reasons like not paying rent or major rule violations. They must follow a specific process.
2. How do I challenge an unfair park rule or rent increase?
   You can submit a complaint using the DHCD Manufactured Housing Complaint Form. DHCD will review the matter and may offer mediation.
3. What should I do if I'm facing eviction?
   Seek help immediately. Save all notices and contact DHCD or a legal aid organization. You generally have a right to a court hearing before eviction.
4. Where can I find the official rules for my mobile home park?
   The park owner must provide them in writing. If you don’t have a copy, ask your park manager or contact DHCD for assistance.
5. Who can help if the park owner isn’t making necessary repairs?
   Contact DHCD to file a complaint. If urgent, you may also contact your local Board of Health or the Housing Court.

Key Takeaways for Mobile Home Park Tenants

• Massachusetts law protects mobile home park residents from unfair eviction and unreasonable rules or rent hikes.
• You have the right to file a formal complaint and may be entitled to mediation or a Housing Court hearing.
• Always keep a copy of park rules, rental agreements, and all communications from your park owner or manager.

Knowing your rights and the right processes helps you protect your home and peace of mind.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts DHCD Manufactured Housing Program – Park rules and tenant complaint resources
• Massachusetts Housing Court – Tribunal for disputes and evictions
• Massachusetts Law About Manufactured Housing – Legislation and legal resources
• How to File a Complaint About Housing Conditions – State guide for renters

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Sections 32A–32S: Manufactured Housing Act
2. Massachusetts Housing Court

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