Montana Manufactured Housing: HUD Standards & Renter Rights

Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Montana published June 21, 2025 Flag of Montana

Manufactured home renters in Montana enjoy specific protections and quality standards thanks to federal HUD regulations and state housing laws. Understanding these rules helps ensure your rental is safe, habitable, and that your rights are respected. This guide breaks down important HUD standards for manufactured housing, how they apply in Montana, and what to do if you ever face housing issues.

Understanding HUD Standards for Manufactured Housing in Montana

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets national construction and safety standards for all new manufactured housing, also known as mobile homes. These standards apply to all new manufactured homes sold or rented in Montana since June 15, 1976. Older units may be "pre-HUD," but still must comply with state health, safety, and habitability requirements.

Key HUD Standards That Protect Renters

  • Structural Safety: Homes must be built to withstand wind, snow, and other climate-related hazards found in Montana.
  • Electrical & Fire Safety: Rigorous wiring, smoke alarm, and fire safety requirements reduce household risks.
  • Water, Plumbing, and Heating: All systems must function properly, with requirements for safe water supply and winterization.
  • Label of Certification: Look for a HUD red certification label on the exterior to confirm the home meets federal standards.

If a manufactured home does not meet these standards or is in poor repair, renters have a legal right to request maintenance or file a complaint.

Montana Tenant Protections: Habitability and Repairs

Beyond HUD’s national codes, Montana law provides renters with clear rights in manufactured housing communities. Under the Montana Residential Mobile Home Lot Rental Act, landlords must:

  • Keep common areas and grounds safe and clean
  • Maintain utilities (water, sewage, electrical) as promised in your lease
  • Repair essential facilities and address code violations quickly
  • Respect your right to quiet enjoyment and provide notice before entering your home (except urgent emergencies)

If repairs aren’t made or if HUD standards are missing, you have options to address the issue. Always notify your landlord in writing first and keep a record of your request.

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How to Report Substandard Manufactured Housing

Renters may report substandard housing, unsafe conditions, or possible violations of HUD standards. Here’s how Montana handles these complaints:

Official Body Handling Tenant Disputes in Montana

The Montana Justice Courts handle landlord-tenant disputes, including issues involving manufactured homes, evictions, and repairs.

Montana’s Main Tenant Complaint Form

  • Form Name: Tenant's Complaint and Request for Repairs
    When to Use: When your landlord fails to address essential repairs or violations after written notice. This form is used to formally notify your landlord and, if needed, support your case in court.
    How to Use: Fill out the form describing the problem, steps you’ve taken, and submit a copy to your landlord. Retain a copy for your own records.

For complaints specifically about HUD code violations (construction, anchoring, or factory defects in the manufactured home), file an official complaint with the Montana HUD Manufactured Housing Program.

Summary: Reporting Issues

If you have a safety or standards concern in your manufactured home:

  • Send a written notice to your landlord describing the problem and requesting prompt repair
  • If unresolved, use Montana’s complaint form
  • For structural HUD violations, contact Montana HUD inspectors directly
  • Save all documentation and photos
If you feel unsafe or your landlord is ignoring vital repairs, you may have the right to repair and deduct costs, or even terminate your lease under Montana law. Be sure to follow official procedures and seek advice before taking any action.

Montana’s Tenant and Landlord Laws for Manufactured Homes

Renters in manufactured housing communities are protected under the Montana Residential Mobile Home Lot Rental Act. This legislation covers everything from rent increases and evictions to security deposits and basic repairs. It gives renters and owners a clear framework for rights and responsibilities.

  • Section 70-33-303: Maintenance and repair obligations
  • Section 70-33-422: Termination and remedies for noncompliance
  • Section 70-33-404: Rent increases and notice requirements

Quick Summary

  • HUD standards ensure all manufactured homes meet federal safety, health, and quality rules
  • Montana laws add extra renter protections for habitability, maintenance, and fair leases
  • Use official channels and forms to resolve disputes or report unsafe housing

FAQ: Montana Manufactured Home Renters’ Rights and HUD Standards

  1. What is the HUD label, and why is it important?
    The HUD label is a red sticker on the home’s exterior confirming it meets federal construction and safety standards. Every manufactured home built after June 15, 1976, must have one.
  2. Can my landlord increase rent without notice?
    Under Montana law, landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice before increasing rent in a manufactured home park.
  3. How do I file a maintenance complaint if standards aren’t met?
    Document the issue, notify your landlord in writing, and use Montana’s Tenant's Complaint and Request for Repairs form if the issue continues. For serious HUD standard violations, contact Montana’s HUD Manufactured Housing Program.
  4. Are evictions for manufactured home renters different?
    Evictions in manufactured housing communities must follow the specific procedures in the Montana Residential Mobile Home Lot Rental Act. Tenants have rights to notice and due process.
  5. Who regulates landlord-tenant issues in Montana?
    The Montana Justice Courts oversee landlord-tenant cases, including disputes involving manufactured homes and compliance with rental laws.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Montana Manufactured Home Renters

  • Check for the HUD label on your manufactured home and report any safety concerns to your landlord or HUD contacts.
  • Montana laws protect your right to a safe, well-maintained home and provide procedures to resolve complaints.
  • Use official forms and the Montana Justice Courts if you need to escalate any unresolved rental issue.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Montana Residential Mobile Home Lot Rental Act, Title 70, Chapter 33. View full legislation
  2. Montana Justice Courts. Official website
  3. HUD Manufactured Housing: Codes and Standards. Official HUD FAQ
  4. Montana Tenant's Complaint and Request for Repairs. Download official forms
  5. Montana HUD Manufactured Housing Program. Montana contacts

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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