Mobile Home Park Rules and Tenant Rights in North Carolina

Living in a North Carolina mobile home park means understanding regulations that protect both renters and park owners. This guide covers mobile home park rules, your core rights as a tenant, steps to resolve issues, and where to find official resources and forms.

Understanding Mobile Home Park Rules in North Carolina

Mobile home parks have unique sets of regulations that tenants must follow, often called "park rules" or "community guidelines." North Carolina law requires these rules to be reasonable and shareable with all tenants before they sign a lease.

Key Features of Park Rules

• Park rules must be written and provided before you rent or move in.
• Any changes to park rules require proper written notice—usually 30 days in advance.
• Rules must comply with North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS) and cannot undermine state or federal tenant protections.
• Rules often cover use of common areas, parking, quiet hours, and home appearance, but must not be discriminatory.

If you receive new or amended rules, examine them to ensure they align with fair practice and North Carolina law. Review current legislation on mobile home park regulations for details.¹

Your Rights as a Mobile Home Park Tenant

Tenants in North Carolina mobile home parks have several significant legal rights:

• Right to a Written Lease: You are entitled to a written lease describing rules, rent, and park policies.
• Rent Increase Notices: Landlords must give at least 60 days' written notice for any rent increase during your lease term.
• Eviction Protections: Park owners must follow formal legal processes for eviction, including proper notice and a court hearing if necessary.
• Right to Notice for Rule Changes: Any changes to park rules or regulations require 30 days’ written advance notice.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Park owners are required to maintain common areas and infrastructure, and tenants must keep their lot and home in safe condition.

Maintenance Requests and Complaint Forms

If you experience a maintenance or safety issue in the common areas of the park, submit a written repair request to your landlord. North Carolina does not have a mandatory standard form, but many local housing authorities provide helpful complaint templates. For unresolved health or safety violations, you can contact the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency for guidance or local health departments for formal complaints.²

Rent Increases and Fee Disputes

Rent changes must be communicated at least 60 days in advance in a written notice. Review the notice to make sure it lists the new rent, effective date, and your legal rights. If the increase is not valid, consult your local District Court or seek assistance from the North Carolina Department of Justice Landlord-Tenant Service.

Eviction Process and Tenant Protections

If your park owner attempts to evict you, the following legal procedures apply:

• Landlord must provide an official written eviction notice (usually a 10-day notice for nonpayment or violation of rules).
• If you do not move out, the landlord must file a "Summary Ejectment" action through the local District Court.
• You have the right to attend a hearing, present your side, and receive a final order.

Key Eviction Form: Summary Ejectment (AOC-CVM-201)

• Form Name: Complaint in Summary Ejectment (AOC-CVM-201)
• When Used: Filed by landlords in District Court to start formal eviction. If you receive this, it means official eviction proceedings have begun.
• Where to Find: Summary Ejectment (AOC-CVM-201) Form
• Renter Action Example: If you are served this form, promptly read the notice. Mark your court date and collect evidence or documents about your tenancy to defend your case at the hearing.

All mobile home park evictions must be processed through the North Carolina District Court system.³

What to Do If Park Rules Change Unfairly

If you believe that a park rule or regulation update is unreasonable or discriminatory, consider these actions:

• Write to your park owner for clarification or ask for written justification of the rule change.
• Contact your local Legal Aid office or tenant advocacy group for advice.
• You may also file a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Justice Landlord-Tenant Service.

Ensuring your rights are respected under the North Carolina General Statutes (Chapter 42, Article 7A) is always in your best interest.

FAQ: Mobile Home Park Renter Rights in North Carolina

1. What notice must a mobile home park owner give before increasing rent in North Carolina?
   Park owners must provide at least 60 days’ written notice before any rent increase can take effect.
2. Can I be evicted from a mobile home park without a court hearing?
   No. All mobile home evictions in North Carolina require a formal court process and an opportunity for you to be heard before a judge.
3. Who handles disputes or evictions involving mobile home parks in North Carolina?
   The North Carolina District Court is the official tribunal for residential tenancy and eviction matters.
4. What can I do if my landlord fails to maintain the common areas of the park?
   You should file a written repair request and, if unresolved, contact your county health department or the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency for further action.
5. Are park rules enforceable if I never received a copy at move-in?
   Park rules should be provided in writing before you move in. Failure to do so could make certain rules unenforceable.

Conclusion / Key Takeaways

• You have the right to written park rules, advance notice for rent increases, and a fair eviction process.
• If you receive official eviction paperwork (Summary Ejectment Form), act immediately and attend your hearing.
• For unresolved disputes, seek support from North Carolina housing authorities or legal services for renters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Carolina District Courts – Handles landlord-tenant and eviction actions.
• North Carolina Department of Justice Landlord-Tenant Service – Advice and complaints for renters.
• North Carolina Housing Finance Agency – Tenant resources and fair housing information.
• Legal Aid of North Carolina – Free legal help for qualifying renters.

---

¹ North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42, Article 7A – Regulation of Residential Manufactured Home Parks
² North Carolina Housing Finance Agency – Housing Consumer Information
³ North Carolina Judicial Branch – District Court Information

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations