Moving is a challenge at the best of times. While the United States has a travel-hungry population, many people aren’t a big fan of the moving process itself.
When moving you have to consider shifting around your furniture, selling unwanted items, and finding a transportation method that suits you. That’s not even including details like moving insurance or scheduling! A mobile home has many of the exact expectations and a few caveats.
What are the laws of moving a mobile home in the United States? Read more to learn how to safely and legally move your unit.
The State of Mobile Homes Today
It’s no secret that the price of rent and mortgage has skyrocketed. Between the fluctuation of the housing market and the pressures of the pandemic, living in a home is more stressful than ever.
Mobile homes are helpful for their more compact size and lower price range. These units can easily be hooked onto a truck and carried to another state, which is a feature apartments and houses can’t compete with! The state of Texas alone boasts over 135,000 mobile homes.
With the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in America ranging from $1,050 to $3,000, mobile homes will continue to grow. Contrary to popular belief, mobile homes are also safe to live in (provided they are regularly inspected).
Moving a mobile home means being aware of local and federal laws.
Related: Mobile Home Investing: 2022 Guide
Law #1: Find a Certified, Manufactured Home Mover
Not just anyone can move your mobile home. You need a certified professional that’s been vetted by today’s rigorous moving laws.
Professional moving companies are required to be registered with the FMCSA (short for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). They also need to be registered with their state, which often takes the form of a certification or a permit. You have the ability to verify the validity of your moving company by visiting your state’s websites and searching their business name.
Don’t be afraid to compare and contrast prices when searching for a mobile home mover. You deserve to find the best possible deal so you can get back to your life quicker.
Law #2: Get a Valid Moving Permit
Can you pack up and move once you find a mobile home mover? Not yet. You must obtain a valid moving permit to legally carry your mobile home to a new location.
Your moving permit is issued by the state or the county you live in. These permits get you in good legal standing and ensure you’re not skipping out on fines or property taxes.
Visit your county treasurer as soon as possible. Approval for permits can take months to approve, so don’t wait until the last minute!
Related: The NEW Affordable Home
Mobile homes, site-built homes, and modular homes are becoming the go-to options in America. We provide consultation, building assistance, and loans to future homeowners.
Law #3: Review the Laws of Your New Town, City, or State
What are the laws of the new place you want to move to? Do they have any exceptions or particulars that could get in the way? Don’t skip this part, as the last thing you’ll want is to be tripped up on arrival.
Each town and city has unique zoning laws with strict rules. These rules often include details such as:
-
Age of the home
-
Materials used in the home
-
Location of the home
If your mobile home is over a decade old, you may have to go through additional inspections and paperwork to prove it’s safe to live in. While these rules and regulations may all seem like a royal pain, they’re vital.
Ready to Move Your Home? Keep These Tips in Mind
Are you feeling more confident moving your mobile home? There are a few more tips to keep in mind.
If You Live in a Manufactured Park, Contact the Manager
Do you live in a manufactured home park? You’ll need to contact the park manager before you move. It’s best to talk to them if you’re even thinking about moving.
Like moving out of an apartment, you need to provide your park manager with a written notice to leave. These notices usually need to be given a month in advance, though your manufactured park could have different timelines.
Another essential reason to talk to your park manager early is to figure out your deposit and any fees you might owe.
Remember to Disconnect Your Utilities
Another reason you can’t just move your mobile home overnight is because of all the prep work. You need to remember to disconnect your utilities before packing your bags.
A typical rule-of-thumb is to give utility companies at least a few months of notice before you move. This gives them time to sort through paperwork, potential fees, and any other information you could need. You’ll then give them a moving date to inform them when to shut off your utilities.
Make Sure to Ask for Help With Skirting
Your mobile home will need to be prepared for moving through skirting. A mobile home can’t be moved unless the skirting foundation is taken out.
Skirting is highly useful because it takes out the open space beneath a mobile home. This process reduces the chances of animals nesting beneath your home or mold growing.
Related: What are ICF Blocks?
Conclusion
What are the laws of moving a mobile home? They’re quite numerous, though you will have no problem following them with a little prep work.
Before moving your mobile home, you need to obtain a moving permit from your county or state. You also have to do various actions, such as disconnecting utilities and removing skirting foundations. If you live in a manufacturing park, you need to let the park manager know you’re leaving.
We provide you with the industry expertise needed to set up a new home, from modular to used homes. Contact us today for assistance in home loans or housing installation.
