What should I do if my park owner won’t fix urgent repairs?

First, ask in writing. If repairs aren’t made, complete the DBR complaint form and submit it with supporting documents to the Department of Business Regulation.

How are rent increases handled in Rhode Island mobile home parks?

Park owners must give written notice and follow state law. If you receive an unfair increase, file a complaint with the DBR.

Can I be evicted from my mobile home park without cause?

No. Rhode Island law only allows eviction for specific legal reasons and you must receive notice and the chance for a court hearing.

Is mediation available for disputes with my park owner?

Yes. The Department of Business Regulation may offer mediation or act as a neutral mediator for disputes.

What documentation should I keep when filing a complaint?

Keep all notices, requests, receipts, and photos that support your case; these help DBR or a judge understand your situation.

Rhode Island Mobile Home Park Dispute Resolution Guide

Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Rhode Island published June 21, 2025

Living in a mobile or manufactured home park in Rhode Island comes with unique rights and protections. If you're having disputes about rent increases, maintenance, or eviction, it's important to understand the state’s official dispute resolution process for mobile home parks. Knowing your options helps you resolve conflicts with park owners and protect your home.

Understanding Your Rights as a Mobile Home Park Resident in Rhode Island

Rhode Island has special laws to protect renters in mobile home and manufactured housing communities. These laws cover topics like rent, eviction, and park rules. They ensure fair treatment and outline how disagreements between residents and park owners should be handled.

Mobile Home Park landlord-tenant relationships are regulated by the Rhode Island Mobile and Manufactured Homes Act.
Dispute resolution is facilitated by the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation (DBR) - Mobile and Manufactured Homes Section, the main government agency for these matters.

Common disputes include:

Rent increases or changes in fees
Maintenance or repairs
Eviction or lease termination
Park rule enforcement

Official Dispute Resolution Process in Rhode Island

If talking to your park owner or management doesn’t resolve your issue, you can use Rhode Island’s formal processes for mobile home park disputes. The process is designed to help you and the park owner reach a fair agreement, or to have a neutral government body make a decision.

Park Resident Complaint Process

The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation (DBR) handles complaints between mobile home park residents and owners. You can file a complaint if you believe your park owner is violating your rights under state law.

First, try to address the problem directly with the park owner with a written request or a conversation.
If you cannot resolve the issue, submit a formal complaint to DBR using their official complaint form.

Required Forms for Dispute Resolution

DBR Mobile and Manufactured Home Park Complaint Form
When to use: If your park owner/management is not following the law, isn’t maintaining common areas, or is unfairly increasing rent.
How it’s used (renter example): "If your park owner refuses to fix a broken utility or provides an illegal rent hike notice, you fill out this form, attach supporting documents, and send it to DBR."
Download the DBR Mobile Home Park Complaint Form (PDF)

After receiving your complaint, the DBR will review the information, may contact both parties, and can investigate or mediate the issue. When necessary, they can order the landlord to follow the law or take corrective action.

Court Remedies and Eviction Hearings

Some serious disputes, like eviction, must sometimes be resolved through the court system. Residents have the right to receive formal notice and to respond or appear in court. Rhode Island District Court is responsible for mobile home tenancy cases.

When served with an eviction notice, read it carefully and pay attention to deadlines to respond.
If you wish to contest an eviction, you can appear at your scheduled court hearing and present your case under the Rhode Island Mobile and Manufactured Homes Act.
For court guidance and schedules, visit the Rhode Island District Court site.

Advice: Always keep copies of written communications and forms. Documentation helps if you need to escalate your dispute.

Key Legislation for Mobile Home Disputes

Rhode Island Mobile and Manufactured Homes Act: This law protects mobile home park residents’ rights regarding rents, evictions, notices, and resident associations.
Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Covers some general tenant protections that may also apply.

How to File a Mobile Home Park Complaint in Rhode Island

Here’s how a renter can take action if they need to file a formal complaint:

Try to resolve your complaint with management first (keep records).
Complete the official DBR Mobile Home Complaint Form.
Gather any supporting documents (letters, notices, receipts, photos).
Submit the form and documents by mail or email using the contact information provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation and respond promptly to any follow-up questions from DBR staff.
If DBR rules in your favor and the park doesn’t comply, they may face penalties or further government action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my park owner won’t fix urgent repairs?
Begin by making a written request to management. If they do not respond or refuse repairs, file a complaint with the DBR using the official Mobile Home Park Complaint Form. Serious health or safety issues should be reported right away.
How are rent increases handled in Rhode Island mobile home parks?
Rent increases must follow the Rhode Island Mobile and Manufactured Homes Act. Park owners must provide adequate written notice, and increases cannot be unfairly large or discriminatory. If you believe your rent hike is improper, contact DBR.
Can I be evicted from my mobile home park without cause?
No. Under Rhode Island law, eviction can only happen for specific reasons such as non-payment of rent or violation of park rules. You have the right to receive notice and a court hearing.
Is mediation available for disputes with my park owner?
Yes. The DBR may offer mediation or act as a neutral party to help resolve disputes between park owners and residents without going to court.
What documentation should I keep when filing a complaint?
Save any letters, repair requests, notices, receipts, or photos that support your case. These can help DBR or the court understand your situation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation – Mobile and Manufactured Homes: DBR Mobile Home Parks Information, including resources, complaint forms, and contact information.
Mobile and Manufactured Homes Section Hotline: (401) 462-9508
Rhode Island Legal Services: Free legal assistance for eligible renters
Rhode Island District Court Housing Calendar: View schedules & procedures for tenancy cases