Understanding Mobile Home Lot Fees in New Mexico

If you rent space in a mobile home park or manufactured housing community in New Mexico, you’ve likely come across the term “mobile home lot fee.” Knowing what this fee covers, how it’s regulated, and what your rights are as a renter in New Mexico can help protect your interests and household budget.

What Is a Mobile Home Lot Fee?

A mobile home lot fee—sometimes called a space rent or site fee—is the monthly amount you pay to rent land in a manufactured housing community. This fee typically covers the right to keep your mobile home on the lot and to use common park features (such as roadways, mailboxes, and sometimes shared amenities).

Importantly, the lot fee is separate from the cost of your mobile home. Many renters own their homes, but pay monthly to rent the land underneath. This arrangement gives park residents flexibility but also requires clear understanding of rights and obligations.

Typical Mobile Home Lot Fee Costs in New Mexico

Monthly lot fees in New Mexico can vary depending on location, amenities, and local market conditions. Based on 2024 data from state housing resources, lot rents in New Mexico commonly fall in the range of $300–$600 per month, though some high-demand areas or resort-style parks may charge more.

• Urban mobile home parks may command higher fees.
• Parks with amenities (clubhouse, pools, security) may charge above-average rent.
• Rural or less-developed areas may offer lower fees.

What’s included with your lot fee should be stated in your written rental agreement. New Mexico law requires a written lease or rental agreement for all mobile home space rentals.^[1]

Your Rights Around Lot Fees in New Mexico

Residents of mobile home parks are protected by the New Mexico Mobile Home Park Act, which sets out the rules for rent increases, eviction, and other key issues.^[1]

Key Protections for Renters

• Notice for Rent Increases: Landlords must give a minimum of 60 days written notice before increasing your lot fee.^[1]
• Leases: Lease terms typically last for at least 1 year. If your rental agreement is expiring, the landlord must notify you at least 60 days before any rent adjustment or non-renewal.^[1]
• Fee Transparency: All fees, including charges for utilities or park rules, must be disclosed in advance and in writing.
• Eviction Protections: Landlords cannot evict you or remove your mobile home without cause and proper notice, per state law.

If you receive a notice of rent increase or fee change you believe is unfair or unclear, you have the right to request clarification or dispute it using official channels.

Required Forms for Mobile Home Lot Fee Issues

New Mexico Notice of Rent Increase (No Official Form Number)

When to Use: If a landlord increases your lot rent, they must provide written notice at least 60 days in advance. There is no state-mandated official form, but the notice must clearly state the new rent, effective date, and be delivered either in person or by first-class mail.

• Practical Example: If you receive a notice, check the date and amount. If you received less than 60 days’ notice, you can dispute the increase with your landlord or seek help from New Mexico’s Manufactured Housing Division.
• Visit the Manufactured Housing Division website for further information and printable sample rent increase notices.

Complaint Forms for Park Residents

• Form Name: Manufactured Housing Complaint Form
• When to Use: If you believe the park owner is violating the Mobile Home Park Act (for example, by not giving proper rent increase notice), use this form to file a complaint with New Mexico's Manufactured Housing Division.
• Access the official Manufactured Housing Complaint Form and instructions.
• How to Use: Gather documentation (lease, rent increase notice, correspondence) and submit the form online or by mail to the Manufactured Housing Division. You’ll receive confirmation and next steps by mail or email.

How Are Lot Fees Regulated?

The New Mexico Mobile Home Park Act (NMSA 1978, Sections 47-10-1 through 47-10-24) is the primary legislation governing lot fees and tenant rights in mobile home communities.^[1]

• The law sets the procedures for fee changes, minimum notice periods, and lease requirements.
• Disputes between renters and park owners are handled by the Manufactured Housing Division of the New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department.

FAQ: Mobile Home Lot Fees in New Mexico

1. Can my landlord raise my lot fee at any time?
   Landlords in New Mexico must provide at least 60 days' written notice before raising the lot rent. Increases can only happen at the end of a lease term, not in the middle of a lease.
2. What if I don’t agree with a rent increase or new fee?
   If you believe a fee increase is unlawful or hasn't followed proper notice, you have the right to contact the Manufactured Housing Division and file a formal complaint for investigation.
3. Does my lot fee cover utilities?
   Some parks include water, sewer, or trash in the lot fee. Others charge separately. Check your written agreement for details on what's covered.
4. What can I do if my park is not maintaining common areas?
   You may submit a complaint to the Manufactured Housing Division if the landlord is not fulfilling responsibilities for maintaining common areas, as required by the Mobile Home Park Act.
5. Where can I find official help with manufactured housing issues in New Mexico?
   The Manufactured Housing Division provides consumer help, complaint resolution, and legal information. Visit their official website for resources and support.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Mobile Home Lot Fees

• Lot fees in New Mexico typically range from $300–$600 and are regulated under state law.
• Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ notice for rent increases and comply with the Mobile Home Park Act.
• If disputes arise about lot fees or park conditions, renters have access to official complaint forms and legal support through the Manufactured Housing Division.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Manufactured Housing Division, New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department — state authority for mobile home rental disputes and consumer complaints
• New Mexico Legislature — official state laws and acts, including the Mobile Home Park Act
• Complaint Forms & Tenant Resources — submit landlord complaints or maintenance issues
• For additional housing help, contact New Mexico Legal Aid at newmexicolegalaid.org or 1-833-545-4357

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1. New Mexico Mobile Home Park Act (NMSA 1978, Secs. 47-10-1 to 47-10-24)

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