Understanding HUD Standards for Manufactured Housing in NH

If you rent a manufactured or mobile home in New Hampshire, it's important to know how HUD standards protect your housing quality and what your rights are. Both landlords and renters must follow rules set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and New Hampshire law, ensuring your home is safe, secure, and well-maintained. This guide will help you understand what these standards mean, how they affect you, and what to do if you have concerns about your manufactured home’s condition.

What Are HUD Standards for Manufactured Housing?

HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) establishes federal building and safety standards for manufactured homes, ensuring all units built after June 15, 1976, meet strict requirements for durability, fire safety, electrical systems, plumbing, structural integrity, energy efficiency, and more. In New Hampshire, all manufactured housing must comply with these standards before being sold, leased, or occupied.¹

Key HUD Safety and Quality Requirements

• Fire safety: Smoke alarms, safe exits, and fire-resistant materials are required.
• Electrical systems: Proper wiring, grounding, and circuit protections must be installed.
• Structural standards: Homes must resist wind, snow, and typical New Hampshire weather.
• Plumbing and heating: Water systems must prevent leaks and water damage; heaters need vents and safe installation.
• Labeling: A red HUD certification label should be fixed to the exterior of each section of the manufactured home.

These standards protect you as a renter by setting minimum benchmarks for health, comfort, and safety within your home.

Your Rights as a Manufactured Home Renter in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, manufactured housing is covered by state law, notably the Manufactured Housing Park Tenancy Act (RSA 205-A) and other tenant laws. These rules govern leases, eviction, maintenance, rent increases, and park rules. These protections are enforced by the New Hampshire Circuit Court – Landlord and Tenant Division.

Common Issues Covered

• Ensuring your home and the park comply with safety codes
• How and when rent can be raised for manufactured home lots
• Protections against unlawful eviction
• Your right to repairs and proper maintenance as a renter
• Regulations for notices, park rules, and community standards

What to Do If You Have Concerns: Forms & Complaint Process

If you believe your manufactured home doesn't meet HUD standards, or your landlord isn’t maintaining your unit as legally required, you can take action. Common issues include mold, leaks, faulty wiring, or non-working heating systems.

Important Official Forms for Renters

• HUD Manufactured Home Complaint Form: If you suspect the manufactured home violates HUD standards or is unsafe, you can file a complaint:
  • HUD Manufactured Home Consumer Complaint Form (no specific number)
  • When to use: If your landlord or park manager doesn’t address safety or warranty problems with your unit, submit this form to HUD.
  • How: Fill out the form online or mail it as directed. Example: You find exposed wires in your home, and your landlord refuses to fix them – file this form to HUD.
• NH Circuit Court Landlord-Tenant Forms:
  • NH Circuit Court Landlord-Tenant Forms
  • When to use: For eviction notices, rent disputes, or maintenance issues where legal action is needed.
  • How: Select the form that matches your problem (e.g., Motion to Enforce Rights), fill it out, and file it by mail or in person with the court.

If you’re unsure what form is right for your situation or need help submitting it, contact the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority or a local legal aid group for free guidance.

Filing a Complaint or Taking Legal Action: Step-by-Step

Address safety or maintenance issues quickly and keep written records of your concerns. Here’s how to get help if your manufactured home isn’t up to standard:

• Notify your landlord or park manager: Always send your concerns in writing and keep a copy.
• Document the problem: Take photos or gather evidence of any code or safety issues.
• File a complaint: If the problem isn’t fixed, submit the appropriate form to HUD, or, for tenancy issues, file with the NH Circuit Court.
• Attend hearings if required by the court. Bring all your documentation to support your claim.

FAQ: Manufactured Housing and Your Rights in New Hampshire

1. What is a HUD label, and why does it matter?
   The red HUD label indicates your manufactured home meets federal safety standards. It's required by law for homes built after 1976 and protects your safety as a renter.
2. Can my landlord remove me for requesting repairs?
   No. Retaliation is illegal in New Hampshire. If you request necessary repairs, your landlord cannot evict you simply for asserting your rights.
3. What should I do if I think my manufactured home is unsafe?
   Report the issue to your landlord or park manager first. If it isn’t resolved, file a complaint with HUD or take your issue to the NH Circuit Court using their forms.
4. What’s the difference between HUD standards and park rules?
   HUD standards are federal housing safety rules for the unit itself, while park rules cover the community’s expectations (like pets, quiet hours, or speed limits) and must be consistent with state law.
5. Who enforces housing laws and standards in New Hampshire?
   The NH Circuit Court – Landlord and Tenant Division handles most manufactured home tenancy disputes. HUD handles home construction and warranty complaints.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Manufactured housing in New Hampshire must meet HUD federal safety standards and state laws for tenant protection.
• If you have problems with safety, maintenance, or wrongful eviction, there are official state and federal forms you can use to assert your rights.
• The NH Circuit Court – Landlord and Tenant Division is the main tribunal for tenancy disputes; HUD addresses home construction and safety issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority – Assistance for renters and manufactured home park residents
• NH Circuit Court – Landlord and Tenant Division – Forms, filing, and guides for disputes
• HUD Manufactured Home Standards Program – Information and consumer complaint forms
• LawHelpNH – Free legal information for renters statewide

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1. See HUD Code and Manufactured Home Standards at HUD Manufactured Home Program
2. New Hampshire’s laws for manufactured housing: RSA 205-A: Manufactured Housing Park Tenancy Act
3. Tribunal and complaint process: NH Circuit Court – Landlord and Tenant Division
4. Landlord retaliation & tenant rights: RSA 540:13-a

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