Tennessee Mobile Home Park Tenant Rights & Park Rules Guide

Living in a mobile home park in Tennessee gives you unique housing opportunities and responsibilities. Whether you own your manufactured home or rent both the land and home, understanding Tennessee’s mobile home park regulations is key to protecting your rights. This article explains the rules park owners can set, how rent and eviction processes work, and which official steps to take if you’re facing problems.

Understanding Mobile Home Park Rules in Tennessee

Mobile home parks in Tennessee may create rules for community living, safety, and maintenance. These park rules must be reasonable, clearly written, and apply to all residents equally. Examples of common park rules include:

• Quiet hours and noise limits
• Restrictions on pets or types of vehicles
• Yard maintenance and home appearance
• Limits on additional structures or equipment

Rules must be provided in writing when you start your lease or lot rental agreement. Any changes require proper written notice, typically 30 days in advance.^[1]

Your Rights as a Mobile Home Park Tenant

Tenants in Tennessee’s mobile home parks are protected by the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) in counties with a population over 75,000 and certain localities.^[2] This law covers essential rights, including:

• Safe and habitable living conditions
• Reasonable notice for changes to rules or rent
• Proper procedures for eviction and notice to vacate

If your county is not covered by URLTA, local ordinances and state law still offer some basic protections. For more, see the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance landlord-tenant resources.

Rent Increases and Fee Changes

Park owners can increase rent or add fees, but must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before the increase takes effect. Make sure any rent change is documented in a new or amended rental agreement. For counties not covered by URLTA, you may have less notice—check your lease and local laws.

Eviction Process in Mobile Home Parks

Tennessee law requires landlords to follow a strict eviction process. Common eviction reasons in mobile home parks include non-payment of rent, breaking park rules, or illegal activity. For most violations, your landlord must give you a written notice:

• Non-payment of rent: 14-day written notice to pay or vacate
• Rule violation: 14-day written notice to correct the issue
• Irreparable harm (e.g., danger to others): Immediate termination possible

If you do not resolve the problem or leave by the deadline, your landlord must file for eviction with the county General Sessions Court. You have the right to attend court and explain your side.

If you receive an eviction notice, act quickly—respond in writing and keep a copy for your records.

Official Forms for Tennessee Mobile Home Park Tenants

• Detainer Warrant (Eviction Complaint):
  When used: If you are being formally evicted, you will receive this from the court or landlord after notice periods end.
  How to use: Review the information and prepare to respond at your scheduled court date. For more, see the Tennessee Detainer Warrant form.
  Official source: Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts
• Answer to Detainer Warrant:
  When used: If you want to respond to an eviction, you can submit an answer stating your defense before your court appearance.
  How to use: File at the court before your hearing date. The form is available from your local General Sessions Court.

Always request copies of any form you submit or receive and keep them for your records.

Dispute Resolution: Where to Get Help

Disputes between tenants and park owners are typically resolved in the General Sessions Court of your county. This court handles eviction cases, disagreements over rules, and unpaid rent. For issues involving discrimination or habitability, contact the Tennessee Human Rights Commission.

FAQ: Tennessee Mobile Home Park Rules and Tenant Rights

1. What notice must a park give before increasing rent in Tennessee?
   Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent or changing fees in most covered areas.
2. Can I be evicted from a mobile home park without a court order?
   No, the landlord must provide notice and obtain a court order through the General Sessions Court before eviction.
3. What happens if I break a park rule?
   You must receive a written notice allowing you 14 days to correct most rule violations before eviction can be started.
4. What should I do if I get a Detainer Warrant?
   Respond promptly, gather documentation, and prepare to appear at your hearing. You may file an answer if you have a defense.
5. Are mobile home park rules enforceable if not written?
   No, all rules must be in writing and disclosed when your tenancy begins or with proper notice for any change.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee Mobile Home Park Renters

• Park rules must be written, reasonable, and fairly applied to all residents.
• You are entitled to advance written notice for rent increases and rule changes.
• Eviction requires written notice and a court order—always respond promptly to notices.

Understanding your rights—and responsibilities—in a Tennessee mobile home park gives you valuable peace of mind. Review your lease and know where to turn for official help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Landlord-Tenant Act Info
• General Sessions Court Directory (Tennessee Courts)
• Tennessee Human Rights Commission
• Tennessee Legal Services – Free Legal Advice & Advocacy

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1. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Full legislative text (PDF)
2. Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance, Landlord-Tenant Act info: Official tenant guide

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