Are Manufactured Homes Covered By A Warranty? Who Do I Contact To Service Problems Covered By A Warranty?

Most manufacturers now offer warranties to guarantee the quality, workmanship, and major heating and cooling systems of the home for a specified time, usually ranging from one to five years. This warranty also tells the homebuyer what to do if a problem arises. Makers of the appliances provided in the homes also provide either "full" or "limited" warranties. There are major differences among warranties and these warranties should be provided to you in writing.

The retailer also has distinct responsibilities in the installation and servicing of the home. Be sure to have the retailer clearly state in writing its responsibilities and warranty coverage for the home's transportation and installation. Even if your home and some of its appliances do not have a written warranty, the buyer does have implied warranties under state laws which require a new home and new appliances to work normally and perform properly.

Will I Be Able To Insure My Manufactured Home?

Yes. There are several insurance companies that specialize in offering insurance coverage for manufactured homes.

Are Manufactured Homes More Susceptible To Fire Than Site-Built Homes?

Manufactured homes are no more prone to fire than homes built on-site. As a matter of fact, a national fire safety study by the Foremost Insurance Company showed that site-built homes are more than twice as likely to experience a fire as manufactured homes. Fire resistance provisions of the HUD Code include strict standards for fire retardation and smoke generation in materials, large windows in all bedrooms, smoke alarms, and at least two exterior doors which must be separate from each other and reachable without having to pass through other doors that can be locked. Site-built homes are required to have only one exterior door and no "reachability" requirement.

Are Manufactured Homes More Vulnerable To Damage From Tornadoes And Hurricanes?

While many like to joke that "mobile homes attract tornadoes," there is no meteorological or scientific basis to thinking that that theory. In fact, the explanation for the reports of damage to manufactured homes from tornadoes is quite simple: manufactured housing is largely found in rural and suburban areas where tornadoes are most likely to occur.

As to hurricanes, valuable lessons were learned from the devastation of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, which destroyed or damaged thousands of site-built and manufactured homes. Now, in areas prone to hurricane-force winds, the standards for manufactured homes are equivalent to or more stringent than the current regional and national building codes for site-built homes in these high wind zones. Also, proper installation and anchoring of the home is a key element is how a manufactured home will perform in severe weather situations.

Can I Make Repairs/Renovations On A Manufactured Home The Same Way As With A Site-Built Home?

While you should perform minor repairs and upkeep on the home, just as with any home, it is advisable to hire a professional for more extensive repairs and renovations. Your homeowner's manual outlines maintenance requirements. Once your home has left the factory, the HUD Code does not include provisions for additions and alterations. Such modifications may jeopardize your home warranty. They may also create malfunctions or an unsafe home.

An approved addition should be a free-standing structure that meets local building codes, and you may need a construction permit from local authorities. Failure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on maintenance and renovations can void the manufacturer's warranty, as well as lessen the value and life of your home.