Understanding Mobile Home Lot Fees in New Hampshire

Mobile homes offer an affordable and flexible housing option for many New Hampshire residents. If you rent a lot in a manufactured housing park, it's important to understand what a lot fee is, what it covers, how increases are regulated, and where to turn if you have concerns about your rights or park rules.

What Is a Lot Fee in a Manufactured Home Park?

The term mobile home lot fee refers to the amount you pay as a renter for the land or site where your mobile or manufactured home is placed. You might own your home, but rent the lot inside a designated park. Lot fees are usually paid monthly to the park owner or manager.

What Does the Lot Fee Usually Cover?

New Hampshire law does not require one specific list of services, but most lot fees typically include:

• The right to occupy the land/lot for your home
• Basic park maintenance (roads, common areas)
• Trash removal (if offered by the park)
• Water/sewer (if provided by the park — confirm in your lease)

You should always request a written lease outlining what is and is not included in your monthly lot fee. This is required under New Hampshire RSA 205-A:2, which governs manufactured housing parks.

How Much Do Mobile Home Lot Fees Cost in New Hampshire?

The average monthly lot fee in New Hampshire varies by location, park amenities, and market demand. In 2024, typical fees range from $400 to $600 per month, but some communities may charge more or less. Always confirm the current rate with your park manager or owner.

Can Lot Fees Increase?

Yes, but there are regulations. Under RSA 205-A:4, if the park owner wishes to raise the lot rent, they must provide at least 60 days written notice to all affected tenants. The notice must clearly state the new rent amount and the effective date.

If you receive a notice of fee increase and believe it's unlawful or retaliatory, you may challenge it. New Hampshire protects tenants from unlawful eviction and some rent increases under certain circumstances.

Other Costs to Be Aware Of

• Utilities: If not covered by the lot fee, you may pay separately for water, sewer, electric, and propane/natural gas.
• Park Rules/HOA Dues: Some parks have rules, fees, or homeowner associations.
• Property Taxes: As a manufactured home owner, you may owe property taxes to the local municipality (not the park owner).

It’s important to read your lease and confirm all charges before signing.

Your Rights in a Manufactured Housing Park

New Hampshire tenants have specific rights outlined in RSA Chapter 205-A (Manufactured Housing Parks).

• Written Rental Agreement: You are entitled to a written lease that spells out your lot fee and terms.
• Notice of Changes: Any change in fees or park rules must be delivered in writing, with proper notice.
• Protection from Unlawful Eviction: You cannot be evicted without cause and due process under the law.

Which Tribunal Handles Disputes?

In New Hampshire, disputes between tenants and manufactured home park owners generally go to the New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division. This court hears landlord–tenant matters, including those related to rent, eviction, or unfair fee increases.

Official Forms for Manufactured Housing Park Residents

• Notice to Quit (Eviction Notice) – No set state form number. If a park owner intends to evict a tenant, they must serve the tenant a written Notice to Quit according to RSA 540:2.
  For example, a tenant might receive this notice if they fail to pay the lot fee or violate a park rule. See guidance at the NH Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Forms page.
• Landlord–Tenant Writ (NHJB-2332-DP) – Used when the park owner seeks a court order to remove a tenant after proper notice. The owner files this with the Circuit Court. More information and a downloadable form are available at the official New Hampshire court forms site.
• Motion to Dismiss (NHJB-2225-DP) – A tenant can use this form to challenge an eviction or raise legal defenses. See instructions with the NH Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Forms.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is typically included in my lot fee?
   Lot fees usually cover the right to place your home on the lot and basic park maintenance. Confirm all included services in your lease.
2. Can the park owner raise my lot fee without warning?
   No, New Hampshire law requires at least 60 days written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
3. What should I do if I disagree with a fee increase?
   You can contact your park owner, review your lease, and consider seeking mediation or court review through the New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division if there is a dispute.
4. Who do I contact if I have questions about my rights?
   Contact the NH Department of Justice – Consumer Protection Bureau for manufactured housing issues, or reach out to the Circuit Court if you have a legal dispute.
5. Do I need a written lease for my mobile home lot?
   Yes, New Hampshire law requires a written rental agreement outlining your lot fee and terms.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for NH Mobile Home Renters

• Your lot fee covers occupancy and often park maintenance or certain utilities—always check your lease.
• Rent increases require 60 days written notice under state law.
• If you face an unlawful fee increase or eviction, you have rights and legal channels for help.

Understanding your rights ensures you can make informed decisions, budget accurately, and protect yourself as a mobile home lot renter in New Hampshire.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division: Handles landlord-tenant disputes.
• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority: Rental assistance, housing programs, and information.
• NH Department of Justice – Consumer Protection Bureau: File complaints about manufactured housing issues.
• NH Judicial Branch: Landlord–Tenant Forms: Download official forms for your case.

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1. RSA Chapter 205-A: Manufactured Housing Parks (New Hampshire State Legislature)
2. RSA Chapter 540: Actions Against Tenants (New Hampshire State Legislature)
3. New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division
4. NH Judicial Branch Landlord–Tenant Forms
5. New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority

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