Virginia Mobile Home Park Closure: Relocation Assistance Guide

Facing the closure of your mobile home or manufactured housing park in Virginia can be stressful. Knowing your legal rights and what assistance is available can help you make informed decisions. This guide explains what happens when a park closes in Virginia, how to access relocation assistance, and where to turn for help. It’s designed for Virginia mobile home residents navigating rent, relocation, or eviction concerns.

Understanding Mobile Home Park Closures in Virginia

When the owner of a mobile home park decides to close the park or change its use, Virginia law requires specific steps to protect residents. These rules aim to provide renters with time, notice, and potential financial help for relocation.

Notice Requirements

Under the Virginia Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act, landlords must:

• Give written notice at least 180 days before the park is closed.
• Include the park’s closure date and available relocation resources in the notice.
• Provide information on how residents can apply for possible relocation assistance.

Relocation Assistance: What Are Your Options?

Virginia offers a Manufactured Home Relocation Fund for eligible mobile home owners and renters who must move because a park is closing. The Fund helps with costs, including moving the home and related expenses. Key details include:

• Applications are made to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
• Assistance is based on actual moving costs up to a maximum limit.
• You must be a current legal resident of the park at the time the closure notice is issued.

Applying for Relocation Assistance

To request funds from the Manufactured Home Lot Rental Relocation Program, you will need to complete the following form:

• Manufactured Home Relocation Assistance Application (No assigned number)
  • When to use: If you have received notice that your park is closing and need help with moving costs.
  • How to use: Fill out the form after you have written notice of closure. Attach supporting documentation, such as the closure notice and estimates for your moving costs. Submit it directly to the DHCD by email, mail, or as directed.
  • Access the Manufactured Home Relocation Assistance Application on the DHCD site.

After submitting your application, the DHCD will verify the park's status, your eligibility, and determine the assistance amount. If approved, payments are usually made to service providers or mobile home owners shortly after processing.

Official Tribunal Handling Disputes

Most landlord-tenant disputes for mobile home parks in Virginia are addressed by the Virginia General District Court, which handles residential tenancies and eviction matters. The DHCD oversees administration of relocation funds and can provide guidance if there are issues with your application or the notice process.

Key Steps When a Mobile Home Park Closes in Virginia

• 1. Review the written closure notice carefully. Note the closure date and deadlines.
• 2. Gather documentation: notice letter, current lease/rental agreement, moving cost estimates.
• 3. Complete and submit the relocation assistance application via DHCD.
• 4. Seek legal help or call the DHCD if you encounter issues with your notice or need more support.
• 5. Attend court hearings if any disputes arise about your rights or the landlord's obligations.

By following these steps, you can help protect your rights and access possible financial support when moving from a closing park.

Frequently Asked Questions about Relocation Assistance in Virginia

1. How much relocation assistance can I get if my mobile home park closes?
   The amount is based on actual, reasonable costs for moving your home and reconnecting utilities, up to the limits set by the Manufactured Home Relocation Fund. See DHCD’s website for current maximums.
2. Do renters (not owners) qualify for relocation assistance?
   If you own your mobile home, you are eligible. Renters who do not own the home generally do not qualify for funds, but should review DHCD guidance or speak to local housing authorities for related support.
3. How much notice does my landlord have to give before closing a park?
   Virginia law requires at least 180 days written notice before a park can close.
4. Where can I download the relocation assistance application?
   You can download the form from the Virginia DHCD Manufactured Home Relocation Fund page.
5. Can I appeal if my application for assistance is denied?
   Yes. Contact DHCD or the Virginia General District Court for appeal processes if you believe your application was wrongly denied.

Key Takeaways for Virginia Mobile Home Residents

• Landlords must give at least 180 days written notice before closing a manufactured home park.
• The Virginia Manufactured Home Relocation Fund can help pay for moving costs if you’re eligible.
• Always act quickly, keep documentation, and contact DHCD for help with the process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD): Manufactured Home Relocation Fund – Main resource for forms, eligibility details, and contact information.
• Virginia General District Court – Handles tenant-landlord disputes, eviction, and appeals of assistance decisions.
• Virginia Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act – Read the official state law on park closures and tenant rights.
• Virginia Legal Aid – Free or low-cost legal help for eligible renters facing eviction or relocation due to park closures.

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1. Virginia Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act – § 55.1-1308, § 55.1-1309, and § 55.1-1310
2. Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development: Manufactured Home Relocation Program
3. Virginia General District Court: Landlord-Tenant Disputes

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