Understanding Mobile Home Lot Fees and Costs in Vermont

If you rent space for your mobile home in Vermont, understanding your lot fee—sometimes called a lot rent or lot lease—is essential. This fee covers your right to use the mobile home park land where your home sits. Vermont has specific laws governing what these fees can include, how increases are handled, and your rights if you have concerns about park management. Staying informed helps you make sound rental decisions and protect your home.

What Is a Mobile Home Lot Fee?

A mobile home lot fee is the amount you pay, usually monthly, to the owner of a mobile home park for the right to occupy a specific lot within that park. Unlike an apartment rental, you own your mobile home, but the land beneath it is leased from the park owner. In Vermont, these fees are regulated to help ensure fairness for all residents.

What Does the Lot Fee Usually Cover?

• Use of the specific lot where your mobile home is placed
• Access to park roads and common areas
• Basic infrastructure maintenance (such as water, sewer, and grounds upkeep)
• Sometimes includes utilities (but not always—review your lease closely)

Tip: Always check your written rental agreement to see precisely what your lot fee covers and what may cost extra.

Typical Lot Fee Costs in Vermont

According to data from the Vermont Department of Public Service, the average mobile home lot fee in Vermont varies depending on location and park amenities. As of 2024, lot rents generally range from $350 to $500 per month, but costs may be higher in some areas or parks with extra services.

What is Not Included?

• Your home’s mortgage or loan payments
• Personal utility bills (unless specified in your agreement)
• Major repairs to your mobile home itself

Rent Increases and Your Rights

Vermont law requires mobile home park owners to provide clear notice before increasing lot fees. Under Vermont Statutes Title 10, Chapter 153, park owners must:

• Give at least 60 days’ written notice before any rent increase
• Provide information about how you can appeal a proposed increase

If you believe a rent increase is unfair or not compliant with state rules, you have the right to challenge it.

Disputing a Lot Fee Increase

Tenants in Vermont mobile home parks may contest a rent increase by filing an objection with the park owner and, if necessary, petitioning for mediation or a hearing before the Vermont Department of Public Service (DPS). The DPS is the main agency overseeing mobile home park issues in Vermont.

Official Forms You May Need

• Lot Rent Increase Notice Form: Park owners must use the official notice form detailing any rent increase, which you should receive 60 days in advance.
  When used: You receive this form from the park owner whenever they propose a fee increase.
  Access the official Vermont Lot Rent Increase Notice Form.
• Mobile Home Park Lot Rent Appeal Petition: Use this form if you wish to formally object to the proposed lot fee increase.
  When used: If, after receiving a lot rent increase notice, you decide to formally contest it, fill out and submit this petition to the park owner and the Vermont Department of Public Service.
  Download the Mobile Home Park Lot Rent Appeal Petition.

Both forms above are provided by the Vermont Department of Public Service, which also provides guidance on completing and submitting them.

Which Tribunal Handles Disputes?

For lot rent disputes and other mobile home park issues, the overseeing authority is the Vermont Department of Public Service (DPS) Mobile Home Park Program. The DPS can mediate disputes or, when needed, schedule hearings to resolve disagreements between renters and park owners.

FAQ: Vermont Mobile Home Lot Fees

1. Do I have to pay for utilities separately from my lot fee?
   It depends on your rental agreement. Some Vermont parks include certain utilities in the lot fee, but others require direct payment for electricity, water, or sewer. Always review your contract carefully.
2. How much notice must the park owner give for a lot fee increase?
   Vermont law requires at least 60 days’ written notice before raising lot fees.
3. Can I challenge a rent increase if I think it’s unfair?
   Yes. You can file a formal objection by completing the appeal petition form and submitting it to the Vermont Department of Public Service.
4. What happens if I can’t pay my lot fee?
   If you fall behind, you may risk eviction. However, Vermont law requires a clear process and notice, so contact the park owner or seek help from legal aid immediately.
5. Where do I go for help with a mobile home park problem?
   Contact the Vermont Department of Public Service Mobile Home Park Program or landlord-tenant legal aid services for assistance.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Know exactly what your lot fee covers by reading your lease.
• Vermont law requires 60 days' notice for lot fee increases.
• You have a formal right to challenge fee increases through official forms and the Vermont Department of Public Service.

Staying informed ensures you’re prepared to handle changes in mobile home lot fees and protect your housing rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Department of Public Service – Mobile Home Park Program: For disputes, appeals, and general help
• Vermont Legal Aid – Mobile Home Park Resources: Legal information and assistance
• Vermont Statutes Title 10, Chapter 153: The main legislation covering mobile home park lot fees, tenant rights, and disputes

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1. Vermont Statutes Title 10, Chapter 153: Mobile Home Parks and Lot Rentals
2. Vermont Department of Public Service: Mobile Home Park Program
3. Official Forms and Guidance: Notice of Rent Increase and Lot Rent Appeal Petition via Department of Public Service

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